You’ve probably noticed that when movies or TV shows get really intense, they start using close-ups (perhaps even extreme close-ups). This is because more information than you’re probably even consciously aware of is communicated by the human face. To say that humans are really facially focused is, well, not a stretch.
So it’s not surprising that the face is where all of our primary sensors are, eyes, ears, mouth, and nose. The face is cram packed (in a visually excellent way, of course).
But this can become an issue when you need numerous assistive devices. For example, wearing glasses and hearing aids can become a little… cumbersome. In some circumstances, you might even have difficulties. You will have an easier time using your hearing aids and glasses if you take advantage of these tips.
Are glasses interfered with by hearing aids?
It’s not uncommon for individuals to worry that their hearing aids and glasses may interfere with each other since both eyes and ears will need assistance for many individuals. That’s because there are physical limitations on both the shape of eyeglasses and the positioning of hearing aids. Using them together can be uncomfortable for some individuals.
There are a couple of main concerns:
- Poor audio quality: It’s common for your audio quality to suffer when your glasses knock your hearing aids out of position.
- Pressure: Somehow, both hearing aids and eyeglasses need to be affixed to your face; the ear is the common anchor. But when your ears have to hold on to both eyeglasses and hearing aids, a feeling of pressure and sometimes even pain can result. This can also create strain and pressure around the temples.
- Skin irritation: Skin irritation can also be the consequence of all those things hanging from your face. Mostly this happens because neither your hearing aid nor glasses are fitting correctly.
So, can you use glasses with hearing aids? Definitely! It might seem like they’re contradictory, but behind-the-ear hearing aids can successfully be worn with glasses!
Wearing hearing aids and glasses together
Every style of hearing aid will be compatible with your glasses, it’s just a matter of how much work it will take. In general, only the behind-the-ear style of hearing aid is relevant to this conversation. This is because inside-the-canal hearing aids are much smaller and fit completely in your ear. In-ear-canal hearing aids almost never have a negative relationship with glasses.
But with behind-the-ear hearings they…well, sit behind the ear. The electronics that go behind your ears connect to a wire that goes to a speaker that’s positioned inside the ear canal. You should consult us about what kind of hearing aid will be best for your requirements (they each have their own benefits and drawbacks).
If you use your glasses every day all day, you might want to go with an inside-the-canal type of hearing aid; but this style of device won’t be the best choice for everybody. To be able to hear adequately, some people require a BTE style device; but don’t worry, there’s a way to make just about any type of hearing aid work with your glasses.
Adjust your glasses
The degree of comfort you get from your hearing aid will considerably depend on the style and type of glasses you have. You will want to get yourself some glasses with thinner frames if you wear a large BTE hearing aid. In order to obtain a pair of glasses that will work well with your hearing aid, seek advice from your optician.
Your glasses will also need to fit correctly. They shouldn’t be too slack or too tight. The caliber of your hearing experience can be compromised if your glasses are continually wiggling around.
Don’t avoid using accessories
So how can you use glasses and hearing aids simultaneously? Well, If you’re having trouble managing both your glasses and hearing aids, take heart, you aren’t alone! This is good news because it means that you can use it to make things just a little bit easier. Some of those devices include:
- Anti-slip hooks: These hooks also help to prevent your glasses from moving all around (and potentially moving your hearing aids with them). They’re a little more subtle than a retention band.
- Specially designed devices: There are a wide range of devices on the market designed specifically to make it easier to use your hearing aids and glasses at the same time. Devices include pieces of fabric that hold your hearing aids in position and glasses with built-in hearing aids.
- Retention bands: These bands fit around the back of your glasses, and they help keep your glasses in place. These are a great idea if you’re a more active person.
These devices are designed to keep you more comfortable by holding your glasses in position and securing your hearing aids.
Can glasses trigger hearing aid feedback?
Some people who wear glasses with their hearing aids do document more feedback. And it does happen, but it’s not the most prevalent complaint. But it’s also possible that something else, such as a speaker, is actually what’s causing the feedback.
Still, if you’re experiencing hearing aid feedback and interference and you believe that your glasses are the problem, consult us about possible solutions.
The best way to use your hearing aids and glasses
Many of the challenges linked to using hearing aids and glasses together can be averted by ensuring that all of your devices are being worn properly. You want them to fit well!
You can do that by utilizing these tips:
First put on your glasses. In terms of adjustment, your glasses are bigger so they will have less wiggle room.
Once you have your glasses in position, position the shell of your hearing aid between your glasses earpiece and your outer ear. The earpiece of your glasses should be up against your head.
Adjust both as needed in order to be comfortable, then place the hearing aid microphone inside your ear canal.
That’s all there is to it! Sort of, there’s definitely a learning curve when it comes to putting on and taking off your glasses without bumping your hearing aid out of place.
Take care of your hearing aids (and your glasses)
If either of your devices (hearing aids or glasses) isn’t well maintained, the conflict between the two can be amplified. Things break sometimes! But with some maintenance, those breakages can be prevented.
For your hearing aids:
- Be sure to clean your hearing aids at least once a week.
- Be certain to recharge your battery when necessary (if your hearing aid is rechargeable).
- When you’re not using your hearing aids, be sure to store them somewhere dry and clean.
- The right tools (a soft pick and a brush) should be utilized to clear away earwax and debris.
For your glasses:
- To clean your glasses, make use of a soft, microfiber cloth. Do not use paper towels or even your shirt, as this might scratch your lenses.
- If your glasses stop fitting well, bring them to your optician for an adjustment.
- When you aren’t using, keep in a case. Or, you can keep them in a safe dry place if you don’t have a case.
- Clean your glasses when they get dirty. Normally, this is at least once a day!
Professional assistance is sometimes needed
Hearing aids and glasses are both specialized devices (even though they may not seem like it on the surface). So finding the best fit for your hearing aids and your glasses will usually require a professional’s help.
The more help you get in advance, the less help you will need down the road (this is because you’ll be preventing problems rather than attempting to address those issues).
Your glasses and hearing aids can get along with one another
Like one of those family feuds that’s been happening too long (with plenty of close-ups, of course), it’s now time to admit that glasses and hearing aids don’t have to be enemies. Sure, it can, sometimes, be a challenge if you need both of these devices. You will be able to be more focused on enjoying your life and less on keeping your hearing aid in place with our help.