In this post, we share our thoughts on whether or not one hearing aid or two is really necessary.
“Do I need two hearing aids, or can I get by with just one?”
This question is one I hear quite frequently from patients with hearing loss in both ears. Personally, I understand their point of view: why invest in two hearing aids if one will suffice?
However, as an audiologist, I know the benefits of wearing hearing aids in both ears, and I’m happy to share my knowledge with you. The following are several benefits of wearing hearing aids in both ears.
Sound Localization
Our brains rely on information from both of our ears to determine where sounds are coming from. Timing, intensity, and location are items that can be difficult to judge when relying on the reception of only one ear and can lead to confusion or dizziness. These issues are easily resolved when hearing aids are used in both ears.
Improved Understanding in Background Noise
Many individuals with hearing loss have difficulty hearing in noisy environments. A study by Kim et al. (2014) demonstrates that individuals who wear two hearing aids are better able to follow conversations with background noise than those who wear only one hearing aid. Essentially, hearing aids work better as a pair, enhancing speech understanding in background noise.
Preservation of Speech Understanding
Over time, untreated hearing loss can lead to a decline in speech understanding. If both ears are experiencing hearing loss, the entire auditory system is affected and requires treatment.
Wearing only one hearing aid is like wearing only one prescription lens in your glasses. To maintain speech understanding equally, wear hearing aids in both ears.
Our Experience
Sometimes, our patients do not follow our recommendations, and we respect their decisions. However, at Clarity Audiology, we are always upfront about proper expectations. Most patients who need two hearing aids but only invest in one will report problems about misunderstandings in noisy environments, poor localization, and decreased word understanding in the unaided ear.
We are blessed to have two ears. If we can use them, we should.
Byrne, D. & Noble, W. (1998) Optimizing Sound Localization with Hearing Aids. Trends in Hearing 3(2). doi: 10.1177/108471389800300202
Kim, J., Lee, J.H., & Lee, H. (2014) Advantages of Binaural Amplification to Acceptable Noise Level of Directional Hearing Aid Users. Clinical and Experimental Otohinolaryngology. 7(2) doi: 10.3342/ceo.2014.7.2.94
Trust the Experts at Clarity Audiology & Hearing Solutions
Need help with your hearing? Clarity Hearing can help. Clarity Audiology & Hearing Solutions is an independently owned and operated clinic that focuses on quality of care and personalized, friendly service to the surrounding areas of Ellicott City, Catonsville, Columbia. Our Doctors of Audiology are highly trained with advanced degrees and take the time to provide the personalized care and attention that you need and deserve. We provide advanced hearing aid options that are personally calibrated with cutting-edge digital technology to fit your hearing loss, your unique ear anatomy, and your individual listening needs.
You can call us today to schedule a FREE Hearing Protection Consultation at 410-698-6594! For more blog posts, news, and updates, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and LinkedIn.