Hearing aids for glasses wearers can sometimes be a problem. Some people feel apprehensive about the idea of wearing a hearing aid with their glasses. They worry that it would be uncomfortable or may cause disruption in using either. We have put together this smart little guide to help those with glasses make an informed decision on which hearing aid could be right for them.
Choosing the Right Hearing Aid for Glasses Wearers
Wearing hearing aids and glasses has become a popular combination, especially for the elderly, as they often need both to cope with normal daily activities. With a bit of care and the right choice of both glasses frames and hearing aid type, you can enjoy improved hearing with little fuss.
Hearing aids come in a variety of models and shapes. The most popular types are behind the ear, invisible and in the ear.
In Ear hearing aids and Invisible hearing aids pose no problem with wearing glasses as nothing goes behind the ear.
Behind the ear hearing aids may cause some discomfort if not sited correctly but that in no way means that they are not a good choice for glasses wearers. Many people who suffer from both hearing and visual problems would like to hide one or both and feel uneasy when their aid is visible. That is why some opt for very small and discreet hearing aids or choose contact lenses instead of spectacles. While this may be convenient for certain people, it is not a universal solution.
There are different options for comfortably wearing both glasses and hearing aids depending on preference, type of hearing loss and hearing aid and glasses frames.
ITE, ITC and CIC hearing aids
These hearing aids are positioned either in the ear bowl (In Ear hearing aids) or in the ear canal (Invisible hearing aids). In the ear and in the canal hearing aids can be slightly visible from the side. You cannot see Completely in the Canal hearing aids at all. These hearing aids are very appropriate for people who look for the smallest possible device that will be almost invisible to others. Because no parts go behind the ear, they cause no problems with spectacles.
Unfortunately, they are suitable mainly for mild and moderate hearing impairment, not severe hearing loss.
For an In Ear hearing aid have a look at the most affordable hearing aid in our range, the HD 91:
As an in-the-ear device, it's small, incredibly discreet and comfortable to wear.
For something even smaller have a look at the Signia Silk 3Nx:
Being so small, this almost invisible device is so light when worn, you'll forget you're wearing it.
Behind the ear hearing aids
Some people feel that combining Behind The Ear hearing aids with glasses would cause problems. In the last few years, Behind The Ear hearing aids have become smaller and they have become a favourite choice for the vast majority. Moreover, Behind The Ear hearing aids are suitable for all ages, all degrees of hearing impairment and due to their larger sized batteries they can be more powerful.
Wearing glasses with Behind The Ear hearing aids is not problematic if you are cautious when putting them on. You can either put your glasses on first or the hearing aid. If you put the hearing aid on first then make sure that when you put your glasses on the hearing aid isn't dislodged. Putting the glasses on first may mean that you need to sort out long hair over the hearing aid and glasses. You can use a mirror to adjust them if necessary. When taking off your spectacles, it is better to pull them forward rather than to the side. This way you won't dislodge the hearing aid.
The top of the range Signia Motion 13 1Nx Hearing Aid is still very affordable.
It's a slimline, really small, yet comfortable behind-the-ear hearing aid. It has a range of hi-tech features to give you the best listening experience possible including smartphone control.
You can also use special clips and straps to connect the frames and the hearing aid to secure them together. That option is especially suitable for children and the elderly.
Don't forget to check out our digital hearing aids before making a decision on which device may be best suited for you.
About Hearing Direct
We are one of the world's leading hearing aid specialists. HearingDirect offers a wide range of affordable products, as well as information resources to help improve the quality of life for the hard of hearing. We sell:- Hearing aids,
- Batteries,
- Accessories such as earplugs,
- and amplified devices such as super loud alarm clocks and amplified phones.
Don't forget to like our Facebook Page
Author: Gary Hill
Gary comes from 16 years' experience in the hearing aid industry in both manufacturing and retail. Before co-founding HearingDirect, Gary was Marketing Director for a leading global hearing aid brand; GN ReSound where he worked for the UK sales division and latterly in their global headquarters in Copenhagen. He was responsible for developing and launching major global hearing aid models, conducting extensive research into the needs of the hearing impaired community and their performance demands of hearing aids and other devices.
