What if I only want one hearing aid is that alright?
This is a question that is quite common from those considering hearing aids. While it is up to the individual to make the final decision as they consider their financial budget for hearing aids, it is also the duty of their hearing healthcare professional to outline the benefits/risks associated with going with one hearing aid versus two.
When an individual with hearing loss in both ears uses two hearing aids they enjoy improved sound localization, better sound quality, less amplification is needed, they report more overall satisfaction with the hearing aids all while avoiding auditory deprivation.
The use of two hearing aids provides improved localization which allows the brain to better interpret and place where sounds are coming from. It is a much more difficult task when one hearing aid is used as the brain must work harder to place where sounds are coming from without being able to compare loudness accurately between the ears.
Sound quality is important for every user and wearing two hearing aids allows for clearer conversations with others as well as improved understanding of sounds.
Less amplification is needed with two hearing aids as it provides the wearer with binaural summation. This is when the wearer interprets an increased intensity of sound when presented with amplification in both ears at once compared to just one ear. Having the feeling of an increased intensity means the wearer will be less inclined to have the hearing aid turned up.
Wearers report greater satisfaction with two hearing aids as it reduces struggles with conversations and hearing other sounds in daily life. Hearing well means wearers are more inclined to participate and feel comfortable in these activities.
Auditory deprivation is when sound is withheld from the brain as happens with hearing loss. Over time, if hearing loss is left untreated, this can worsen the brain's ability to process and understand information.
Overall, our brains are wired to receive sounds from both ears; if you have a hearing loss in both ears, wearing two hearing aids will ensure you will have the most natural hearing experience!
If you feel like you have hearing loss or your hearing has changed you can book a free hearing assessment with one of our Canadian clinic locations through the link below:
https://campaignforbetterhearing.ca/#locations
References:
https://www.healthyhearing.com/report/51388-Hearing-aids-two-are-better-than-one