When choosing a hearing aid, there are many accessories. Some are useful, while others are not. You may be looking for Bluetooth compatibility or automatic programming to save you time and trouble. It’s up to you to determine which features you need. Below are some tips to help you choose the right accessory.

Wax Guards

When wearing hearing aids, you must change the wax guard regularly. The time between replacements will depend on how much earwax you produce and how often you clean your hearing aids. The average user should change their guard every month or so. However, those who have moderate earwax production may go for months without having to change their guards. In most cases, changing the wax guard is easy.

Wax guards are designed to prevent moisture and wax from collecting in the inner tube of a hearing aid. These buildups can affect the device’s performance, causing it to become damaged and not function as effectively. In addition, excessive ear wax can make the sounds produced by your hearing aids sound weak and distorted.

Telecoils

Your hearing aid accessories can help you make the most of your hearing aid. You can choose from various colors, styles, and shapes at Costco’s hearing aid centers. Some are geared towards certain lifestyles. For example, sweatbands can keep your hearing instrument from rubbing against your skin while playing sports. Others keep your hearing aid from falling out when you’re exercising. There are also colorful decals and charms to make wearing your hearing aid more fun.

You can also choose from a variety of wireless accessories. Some can connect to various devices, such as a television. Again, your audiologist can help you determine which accessory is right for you.

Remote Controls

A remote control allows you to change the volume and program settings of your hearing aids without touching them. The remote is usually a handheld device or can be linked to your smartphone with an app. It also allows you to monitor different environmental programs and adjusts volume without looking away from your hearing instrument.

Some remote controls are small and can clip onto your clothing. They help you adjust the volume, change settings, and even turn your hearing aids on and off. You can choose from various brands to choose the right one for your needs.

Microphones

If you have trouble hearing in noisy places, you may consider a microphone for your hearing aid. A microphone is a small pen-like device that carries the speaker’s voice to the hearing aid. Whether you’re talking to your friend or family member or participating in a meeting, a microphone will help you hear the conversation better.

Many hearing aids now come with wireless microphones that allow you to hear from a distance. This technology allows you to hear in a crowded room while blocking background noise so that you can focus on sounds that matter. This is especially helpful for children.

Batteries

Hearing aid batteries come in a variety of sizes and types. The two main types are rechargeable and zinc-air. They operate by using air to react with zinc inside the battery, generating energy. Once the battery is placed inside the hearing aid, it is sealed using special foil to prevent leakage.

Choosing the right hearing aid battery is essential to keep your hearing aid in good working order. Several factors can affect battery life, including the hearing aid, the amount of amplification, and how long you use it. You may also want to consider the battery’s size, as larger ones will give you longer battery life and prevent your hearing aid from becoming useless.

Assistive Listening Devices

There are several different kinds of assistive listening devices for hearing aids. Some are intended to be used in large facilities, while others are more personal and can be used at home. Talking to your hearing care provider to determine the best device for you is important. Several of the devices are compatible with different hearing aids, and choosing the correct one for your needs is crucial.

Assistive listening devices can be hard-wired or wireless. Both types have their benefits. Wireless ALDs work with hearing aids and are compatible with various receiver attachments, including neck loops, silhouette inductors, headphones, and direct audio input microphones. Hard-wired devices require an additional connection to your hearing aids or implant. The third type of assistive listening device is a self-contained beam-forming microphone array, which may connect to a telecoil or a neck loop.