Hearing aids are small electronic devices you wear in or behind your ear. They work by picking up sound through a microphone, amplifying it and delivering it into your ear canal.
This process helps you hear speech and ambient noises more clearly. There are modern models which also feature digital processing to reduce background noise and focus on voices
You may be referred to a hearing aid specialist in Singapore for these devices if you are troubled by mild to severe hearing loss. A skilled hearing aid specialist cannot only help you find the right hearing aids but also fix them properly so you can join conversations without guessing words.
You can also now enjoy music, lectures or phone calls with less effort. Some devices even connect wirelessly to your phone or TV and can send sound straight to your ears.
What is a Hearing Aid Specialist and when to See One?
As the name suggests, a hearing aid specialist is a trained professional who tests hearing, fits aids and offers ongoing support. You may need to visit one for a full hearing evaluation, which typically includes tests in a sound-proof booth and speech recognition checks.
If approved for hearing aids, the specialist will guide you through product options, fitting styles and feature choices. They will also programme your aid to match your specific hearing profile, using software that adjusts volume, noise reduction and frequency response.
A good hearing aid specialist will also teach you how to insert, adjust and clean your device safely. If you’re wondering when to visit a hearing aid specialist, the answer is when you notice signs of hearing loss.
You can tell you are having a hearing loss if you get frequent misunderstandings in conversation, you frequently ask people to repeat themselves or turn up the TV volume high. You might also feel ear fullness, ringing (tinnitus) or find it hard to follow voices in noisy places.
Even if your hearing loss seems mild, an assessment can prevent further decline. Untreated hearing loss can affect mental health, social life and work performance. A good hearing aid specialist not only fits aids but also checks for medical causes of hearing change to ensure you get the right device and the right medical advice without delay.
What is the Gold Standard for Hearing Aids?
We all want the best. And when it comes to hearing aids, one of the questions we get frequently from those who visit our clinic is; what is the gold standard for hearing aids?
Now, when we talk about the “gold standard” for hearing aids, it’s not just the device—it’s how it’s fitted. The top-quality tools in care are Real Ear Measurements (REMs), also called probe-mic testing. This method places a tiny microphone in your ear canal alongside the hearing aid to check that sounds reach your eardrum at exactly the right level and frequency.
Hearing aid sellers who don’t use REMs are relying on generic assumptions. On the other hand, REMs tailor the sound output to your ear’s unique shape and your specific hearing loss. That means you get precise amplification where you need it—no more, no less—across all frequencies.
What’s more, the American Academy of Audiology and ASHA recommend REMs as best practice. Several research reports also shows that it leads to better speech understanding, more comfortable sound levels, and fewer returns.
So, the gold standard means not merely buying a device with fancy features, but ensuring it’s programmed correctly for your ears and hearing needs using REM. That’s what makes high-end hearing aids truly effective.
5 Questions to Ask your Hearing Aid Specialist Before Buying any Device
Before settling on any treatment plan, you will want to ask the right questions so you follow the right plan and avoid making mistakes along the way. The same applies to seeing a hearing aid specialist. Here are five important questions you may want to ask during your appointment;
- What type of hearing loss do I have, and which devices suit it best? There are different types of hearing loss. And, your specific type whether sensorineural, conductive or mixed will influence your choice. Each hearing loss profile demands different amplification strategies. Your specialist should explain how your test results match particular models to ensure you pick a device designed to address the gaps in your hearing range effectively.
- What features will help me in my daily life? Hearing aids offer many optional features, from directional microphones to telecoils for phone calls. You may benefit from noise-reduction settings in busy environments or auto programs that switch between TV and quiet modes. Discuss your typical activities like work meetings, social outings or watching TV to identify which features matter the most.
- How long is the trial period, and what is the return policy? A genuine trial lets you test the device in real situations. So, we strongly recommend asking how many weeks you have to return or exchange the aid if it doesn’t suit you. Some clinics charge a restocking fee, so clarify any costs. A good clinic will provide a clear return policy which shows their confidence in their recommendations.
- What warranty and aftercare services are included? Hearing aids require regular cleaning, adjustments and occasional repairs. So, you will want your hearing aid specialist to at least provide some aftercare services. A good warranty covers mechanical faults for at least two years. Ask if tune-ups or battery changes incur extra fees. Free cleanings and check-ups will be key in keeping your aid performing at its best.
- What ongoing costs should I expect? Beyond the initial purchase, you may pay for batteries, cleaning kits or maintenance visits. You deserve to know these details beforehand to avoid any nasty surprises. Rechargeable models have fewer battery costs but may need a replacement battery pack after a few years. Get a clear estimate of annual costs so you can budget without surprises. Also, technology evolves quickly so, ask if your model accepts feature upgrades or wireless accessories.
Closing Thoughts
To choose the right hearing aid, you need expert guidance on your type of hearing loss, device features and long-term support. So, don’t just pick a device. Also, be keen to ask the right questions to gain clarity on fit, function and ongoing costs.
If you’re currently considering hearing aids in Singapore and ready to hear the difference, please book a consultation with our hearing aid specialist today. Call or visit us at: