Frequently Asked Questions About Pediatric Hearing Aids

Impaired hearing is a condition that affects people of all ages. In a large number of cases however, hearing problems begin during the childhood years of an individual. Early detection of impaired hearing in children allows them to adopt the use of hearing aids in good time so as to facilitate continued development of the child's speech and language skills.

Parents dealing with a hearing-impaired child for the first time are bound to have a number of questions about the use of hearing aids. This article provides answers to three of these questions.

How Can A Parent Get The Best Results With Pediatric Hearing Aids?

It is imperative that parents visit a certified audiologist with the affected child so that both parent and child can learn what hearing aids can do and what they cannot do. 

The key to achieving the best results with pediatric hearing aids lies in the consistent use of these devices. As such, parents need to monitor children with impaired hearing closely during the early years of childhood. As these children grow older, parents should teach them how to use and operate their aids for maximum gain.

When Should Children Start Using Hearing Aids?

There is no definite age at which a child with impaired hearing should start using aids. Affected children are fit to use hearing aids from as early as four weeks after birth. In the ideal situation, affected children should start using aids as soon as it is discovered that they have a hearing impairment unless otherwise indicated by an audiologist.

The earlier a child begins to use hearing aids, the more time he or she has to learn how to cope. This helps to make life easier for affected children as they grow into teenagers.

Why Are Behind The Ear (BTE) Hearing Aids Recommended For Children?

Behind The Ear (BTE) aids are the most commonly used hearing aids for children. There is sufficient reason for the preference of BTE hearing aids. For one, BTE aids are detachable, which makes it easy for them to be remade as affected children continue to grow and their ears get bigger. Secondly, BTE aids make it easy for parents and caregivers to carry out listening checks and make necessary adjustments, thanks to their user-friendliness. Additionally, the material used to make behind-the-ear hearing aids is nicely soft for increased comfort of the wearer. 

For answers to further questions about pediatric hearing aids, parents should make a date with a professional audiologist, such as those at Advanced Hearing Care.


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