Hearing Glasses
Whoever needs visual and hearing assistance often faces the problem that wearing both supports at the same time can cause pressure sensations or discomfort. In addition to the use of in-the-ear hearing aids, hearing glasses are a potential fitting option for glasses and hearing aid users. But not all hearing glasses are the same, as different variations of the combination model come with both advantages and disadvantages that influence their suitability for different target groups.
Hearing glasses or glasses with a hearing system?
In classic hearing glasses, the hearing system is built into the arms of the glasses. The connection between the hearing system and the ear is realized via a transparent hearing tube that ends in an earmold, which is inserted into the ear. This keeps the hearing glasses unobtrusive, discreet and easy to use.
Alternatively, eyeglasses can be fitted with hearing instruments that are attached via a click system. Accordingly, the spectacle model can be selected as desired and the hearing system can be converted, so that the spectacle change is flexible. To be able to attach the click system, only slight modifications have to be made to the spectacle frame.
Bone conduction hearing glasses
When the insertion of an earmold is anatomically not possible or the provision of conventional hearing aids is not sufficient, bone conduction hearing glasses can be chosen. This is a form of bone-conduction hearing aid that works by firmly resting the arms of the glasses on the skull bone. With the help of bone conduction, sound transmission takes place by means of vibration, which causes the auditory impression to be transmitted.
For whom are hearing glasses suitable?
Priority hearing glasses are suitable for people who need both a hearing aid and a visual aid. Especially when wearing glasses throughout the day is necessary, since hearing conduction is always guaranteed only in combination. Click hearing aids prove to be practical when glasses are changed frequently, for example, to sunglasses.
Disadvantages of hearing glasses
Less suitable are hearing glasses for merely sporadic wearers of a visual aid, since the hearing performance is always coupled to the use of the glasses. In addition, repairs prove to be problematic. These often require sending in the hearing glasses, which consequently leaves the wearer with neither glasses nor hearing aid during the repair period.
Wearing hearing aids and glasses
Whether it is possible to wear a hearing aid and glasses together depends on the shape and size of the ears, the type of hearing aid and individual needs. There may be an uncomfortable feeling of pressure behind the ear, or it may simply be perceived as annoying to have both glasses earpieces and hearing aid behind the ear. This problem can be avoided by using in-the-ear hearing aids. However, those who prefer behind-the-ear devices should opt for modern, relatively narrow models that are less distracting. Alternatively, hearing glasses are a good supply option to circumvent the aforementioned problem. However, the disadvantages of the combination systems should not go unnoticed.
Hearing glasses cost
The price of hearing glasses is composed of two aspects: the price of the hearing aids and the price of fitting. The price of fitting can be assumed to be in the range of €80 - €150, hearing aid prices depend on the model and technology level.