As you age, there is an elevated risk of hearing loss, and this risk continues to increase as you get older. Luckily, hearing aids are available to help you maintain living a healthy life. In the past, picking out and purchasing a hearing aid was a pretty simple process. There weren’t many models to choose from, and they all essentially functioned the same. However, in today’s market there are a plethora of choices available when it comes to hearing aids, and when there is a multitude of options, confusion and questions are sure to follow.

Are you in the market for a hearing aid? It doesn’t matter if it’s for you or a loved one; there are certain things you need to look out for. If you want to make an informed purchase, check out our hearing aid buying tips.

1. If you have a smartphone and are into the latest gadgets, you may want to consider buying a pair of hearing aids that have the ability to link up wirelessly to your smartphone. By doing this, you can use your smartphone as a remote, where you can adjust settings, as well as stream phone calls and music directly to your hearing aids.

2. Remember, you often get what you pay for. If you want the latest technology, or would like a durable and reliable pair, expect to pay more. Hearing aids with a higher price tag are usually much more resilient because the manufacturer has invested more into the product. Unlike cheaper products, which practice poor assembly techniques and use cheap parts.

3. Know that hearing aids come in different sizes and styles. Different hearing aid types are available, but the correct one for you does depend on a few factors. It is important to work with an audiologist when it’s time for you to pick out a hearing aid. The styles of hearing aids that are currently available on the market include in-the-ear hearing aids, in-the-canal hearing aids, behind-the-ear hearing aids, completely-in-the-canal hearing aids, and standard tube hearing aids.

4. When it’s time to buy a hearing aid, it is important that you buy smart. Know your needs before your first appointment, as this will help you ask the right questions. Look for providers that offer brand and style choices, this way you can have a selection to choose from. Having multiple options will give you the flexibility you need to find the hearing aid for you. Try on hearing aids in different styles and sizes, so you can find what is most comfortable for you.

5. Remember, practice makes perfect. Handling your hearing aids may be clumsy at first, but like everything else, it does get easier with practice. However, it is important to have an understanding of your new hearing aid before you leave your provider’s office. Before you buy a hearing aid, ask about cleaning and storing your hearing aid, make sure you know how to use its controls and switches, practice removing and inserting the battery, and even try to make a telephone call while wearing it. This way you can get an authentic feel for the device before you leave with your new hearing aid.