Imagine chatting with a friend on the street when you reach for your glasses to adjust them. At the same time, your hearing aid shifts, leaving you unable to hear your friend clearly. Feelings of panic and embarrassment may hit you in an instant. If this scenario sounds familiar, you’re not alone. This article discusses tips for comfortably wearing hearing aids and glasses together.
How Many Face the Challenge of Wearing Glasses with Hearing Aids?
Currently, many people face the challenge of balancing wearing glasses and hearing aids. According to a report by the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 2.5 billion people require vision correction due to conditions such as myopia, hyperopia, presbyopia, and astigmatism. Globally, around 466 million people suffer from disabling hearing loss, and many of them use hearing aids to improve their hearing. Among these individuals, some require both glasses and hearing aids simultaneously, highlighting that this is a significant issue that cannot be ignored.
How Do You Wear Hearing Aids and Glasses with Ease?
Consult your audiologist: Your audiologist understands your specific conditions and needs best and can offer tailored advice on selecting the most suitable hearing aid and glasses combination.
Choose the suitable hearing aid types and glasses: Different types of hearing aids can interact differently with glasses. Opt for a hearing aid and glasses that fit well together, are lightweight, and apply minimal pressure on your ears.
Put on and take off with care: The order in which you put on and take off your glasses and hearing aids can make a difference. To adapt better to wearing hearing aids with glasses, practice the motion of putting them on and taking them off. It is generally recommended to put on your hearing aids first and remove them last. This is not absolute. You need to consider the models and compatibility of your hearing aids and glasses, as well as your habits.
Secure your hearing aids: Ensure your hearing aids stay in place while wearing glasses. Consider using retention clips and custom molds to reduce the chance of your hearing aids shifting when adjusting your glasses.
Regular adjustments and maintenance: Since your hearing aids and glasses may shift over time, check their fit regularly and make necessary adjustments. You can also visit your audiologist and optometrist for professional adjustments to ensure both your hearing aids and glasses fit properly.
Adjust to wearing hearing aids with glasses: Be prepared mentally and stay positive about adapting to wearing both hearing aids and glasses, as they are essential parts of your daily life. Embrace the adjustment process and actively find ways to make wearing both more comfortable.
What Types of Hearing Aids Are Comfortable for People Who Wear Glasses?
Consider the following options that are ideal for wearing with glasses:
Receiver-in-canal (RIC): RIC hearing aids are popular for their small size, advanced features, and customizable options. They are discreet and compatible with glasses, offering comfort and a superior hearing experience.
Inside-the-ear (ITE): ITE hearing aids come in full shell (covering most of the outer ear) and half shell (covering only the lower part). Custom-made to fit within the outer ear, they are less likely to interfere with glasses.
Completely-in-canal (CIC): CIC hearing aids are tiny devices fully inserted into the ear canal, offering high discretion and minimal visibility. Their deep positioning means they generally don’t conflict with glasses, making them a good choice for those seeking both effectiveness and comfort.
Behind-the-ear (BTE): BTE hearing aids sit behind the ear and connect to an ear mold via a sound tube or hook. While their size might seem less compatible with glasses, choosing compact models can ensure a snug fit. BTE aids are suitable for mild to severe hearing loss.
Behind-the-neck (BTN): BTN hearing aids place most components at the back of the neck and transmit sound to the ear via wires or wireless connections. Though less common, they offer improved comfort and stability, making them suitable for users who wear glasses.
Focusing on Behind-the-Neck Hearing Aids
Behind-the-neck hearing aids are less common than other types of hearing aids. Their distinctive feature lies in their design, resembling a Bluetooth headset, which can boost the wearer's self-confidence.
|
Neckband Design: Most components are located around the neck, similar to headsets. |
Reduces conflict between hearing aids and glasses; Minimizes the risk of hearing aids moving or falling off due to glasses or hair; Is easy to wear and less likely to be lost; Remains steady during exercise; |
|
Reduced Weight and Pressure |
Reduces the burden on the ears and improves comfort when wearing glasses; |
|
Discreet Appearance: The device is primarily hidden under the neck and clothing. |
Discreet; Convenient to use; Offers a modern alternative to traditional hearing aids; |
Why Consider Behind-the-Neck Hearing Aids?
While many users are more familiar with traditional styles like BTE and RIC hearing aids, behind-the-neck hearing aids offer a stylish alternative for those who wear glasses. They can be a great choice for individuals seeking both functionality and a modern appearance.
Nearity’s HearPod Air features a lightweight, comfortable neckband design that reduces ear burden and provides a secure fit for extended indoor and outdoor wear, even with glasses. Its design ensures stability during active movements.
If you're interested in this hearing aid, feel free to visit Nearity's official website.
Conclusion
Wearing glasses and hearing aids simultaneously can be tricky or uncomfortable for some people, potentially leading to a negative impact on both vision and hearing. Choosing hearing aids and glasses that fit well together is crucial. After making your selection, explore additional tips for wearing both devices comfortably and adapting to using them together.
