I need to know which hearing aid is the best and least expensive for a person with moderate hearing loss?
Bernie R asked:
The hearing loss is in the higher frequency range. We wish to have one that has little or no “speaking in a barrel affect”. We have recieved two estimates so far, one very low and one very high. This leads to much confusion. Thank you in advance!!!!
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The hearing loss is in the higher frequency range. We wish to have one that has little or no “speaking in a barrel affect”. We have recieved two estimates so far, one very low and one very high. This leads to much confusion. Thank you in advance!!!!
February 24th, 2009 at 12:46 pm
You should probably be fit with an open fit hearing aid if your hearing loss is appropriate for it (it sounds like it is). This will practically eliminate the “speaking in a barrel affect” a.k.a. occlusion.
The cost will vary depending on where you live. I’m an audiologist in NY state and our office average is anywhere from 2700 to upwards of 5000 for a PAIR (or 1350-2500 apiece). I’ve had patients who tell me that they had previously paid over 6-7000 for a set in Florida.
You’re going to want a good quality digital hearing aid, but don’t get hosed. Don’t go to a large chain (Beltone, Miracle Ear, Audifone, Costco, NuEar, etc) because their main concern is making a sale over helping you hear. And worse case scenario, if it doesn’t work out, just return the aids within the trial period and a good office will give you back 100% of your money. Go to a licensed audiologist. Any further unbiased questions feel free to email me.
edit:
oops I meant unbiased ANSWERS not questions, obviously