TV shows and movies tend to utilize close-ups (at times extreme close-ups) when the action starts getting really intense. This is because more information than you’re probably even consciously aware of is conveyed by the human face. It’s no stretch to say that human beings are extremely facially focused.
So it’s not surprising that the face is where all of our primary sensors are, eyes, ears, mouth, and nose. The face is jam packed (in a visually excellent way, of course).
But this can become problematic when you need multiple assistive devices. For instance, wearing glasses and hearing aids can become a little… cumbersome. It can be somewhat difficult in some circumstances. You will have a simpler time using your hearing aids and glasses if you take advantage of these tips.
Are glasses impeded by hearing aids?
As both your eyes and your ears will frequently require a little assistance, it’s common for people to be worried that their eyeglasses and hearing aids may impair each other. That’s because there are physical constraints on both the shape of eyeglasses and the placement of hearing aids. Wearing them simultaneously can be uncomfortable for some people.
A few primary challenges can arise:
- Skin irritation: Skin irritation can also be the result of all those things hanging off your face. Mostly this occurs because neither your hearing aid nor glasses are fitting correctly.
- Poor audio quality: It’s common for your audio quality to suffer when your glasses push your hearing aids out of position.
- Pressure: Somehow, both hearing aids and eyeglasses need to be attached to your face; the ear is the mutual anchor. But when your ears have to hang on to both eyeglasses and hearing aids, a sense of pressure and sometimes even pain can be the outcome. Your temples can also feel pain and pressure.
So, can you use glasses with hearing aids? Of course you can! It might seem like they’re contradictory, but behind-the-ear hearing aids can successfully be worn with glasses!
Wearing glasses and hearing aids together
It might take a little bit of work, but whatever your type of hearing aid, it can work with your glasses. Generally speaking, only the behind-the-ear style of hearing aid is significant to this discussion. Inside-the-canal hearing aids are really small and fit nearly entirely inside the ear so they aren’t really under consideration here. There’s normally absolutely no conflict between inside-the-canal hearing aids and glasses.
But with behind-the-ear hearings they…well, sit behind the ear. The electronics that sit behind your ears connect to a wire that goes to a speaker that’s positioned inside the ear canal. Each kind of hearing aid has its own benefits and drawbacks, so you should speak with us about what type of hearing aid would be best for your hearing needs.
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 kind of device won’t be the best choice for everyone. To be able to hear sufficiently, some individuals need a BTE style device; but don’t worry, you can make just about any hearing aid work with your glasses.
Your glasses may need some adjustment
The level of comfort you get from your hearing aid will considerably depend on the style and type of glasses you have. If you have large BTE devices, invest in glasses that have thinner frames. In order to find a pair of glasses that will work well with your hearing aid, seek advice from your optician.
And it’s also important to be sure your glasses fit correctly. They shouldn’t be too slack or too tight. The quality of your hearing experience can be compromised if your glasses are continuously jiggling around.
Using accessories is fine
So how can you use glasses and hearing aids simultaneously? Well, If you’re having problems managing both your glasses and hearing aids, take heart, you aren’t the only one! This is a good thing because things can get a little easier by using some available devices. Some of those devices include:
- Specially designed devices: There are a wide range of devices on the market designed specifically to make it easier to wear your hearing aids and glasses simultaneously. Glasses with built-in hearing aids are an example of one of these kinds of devices.
- Retention bands: These bands go around the back of your glasses, and they help your glasses stay in place. These are a good idea if you’re a more active person.
- Anti-slip hooks: These hooks also help to keep your glasses from moving all around (and possibly taking your hearing aids with them). They’re a little more subtle than a retention band.
The objective with all of these devices is to secure your hearing aids, keep your glasses in position, and keep you feeling comfortable.
Can glasses cause hearing aid feedback?
Some individuals who wear glasses with their hearing aids do report more feedback. And it does occur, but it’s not the most common 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 to blame, talk to us about possible solutions.
The best way to wear your hearing aids and glasses
Many of the challenges connected to wearing hearing aids and glasses together can be prevented by making sure that all of your devices are being properly worn. Having them fit right is the key!
You can do that by using these tips:
First put on your glasses. After all, your glasses are fairly rigid and they’re bigger, this means they have less wiggle room with regards to adjustments.
Then, gently position your hearing aid shell between your outer ear and your glasses earpiece. The earpiece of your glasses should be up against your head.
After both are comfortably set up, you can place the microphone of the hearing aid inside of your ear.
And that’s it! That being said, you will still need some practice removing your glasses and putting them back on without knocking your hearing aid out of position.
Keep up with both your glasses and your hearing aids
If either of your devices (glasses and hearing aids) isn’t well maintained, the conflict between the two can be amplified. Sometimes, things break! But with a little maintenance, those breakages can be avoided.
For your hearing aids:
- The right tools (a soft pick and a brush) should be utilized to clear away earwax and debris.
- When you aren’t using your hearing aids, be sure to store them somewhere clean and dry.
- Be certain to recharge your battery when necessary (if your hearing aid is rechargeable).
- Make sure to clean your hearing aids at least once a week.
For your glasses:
- Utilize a microfiber cloth to clean your glasses. Do not use paper towels or even your shirt, as this may scratch your lenses.
- Clean your glasses when they get dirty. At least once every day is the best plan.
- When you aren’t using, store in a case. Or, you can keep them in a safe dry spot if you don’t have a case.
- If your glasses stop fitting well, bring them to your optician for an adjustment.
Occasionally you require professional help
Hearing aids and glasses are both complex devices (even though they may not seem like it at first glance). So determining 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 later on (this is because you’ll be avoiding 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, obviously), 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 require 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.