You’ve probably noted that when movies or TV shows get really intense, they begin using close-ups (maybe even extreme close-ups). 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 centered.
So it’s not surprising that the face is where all of our main sensors are, eyes, ears, mouth, and nose. The face is cram packed (in an aesthetically wonderful way, of course).
But this can become problematic when you require multiple assistive devices. It can become a little cumbersome when you use a hearing aid and wear glasses simultaneously, for example. It can be rather difficult in some situations. These tips on how to use hearing aids and glasses simultaneously can help you manage those challenges, and get you ready for your (metaphorical) closeup!
Are glasses impeded by hearing aids?
It’s common for people to worry that their hearing aids and glasses might interfere with each other since both eyes and ears will require assistance for many people. That’s because there are physical limitations on both the shape of eyeglasses and the placement of hearing aids. Using them together can be uncomfortable for some people.
There are a couple of principal concerns:
- Skin irritation: Skin irritation can also be the outcome of all those things hanging off your face. If neither your glasses nor your hearing aids are fitting correctly, this is particularly true.
- Pressure: Somehow, both hearing aids and eyeglasses need to be affixed to your face; the ear is the mutual anchor. However, having both a hearing aid and a pair of eyeglasses mounted on your ears can create a sense of pressure and pain. This can also create strain and pressure around the temples.
- Poor audio quality: It isn’t unheard of for your glasses to knock your hearing aids out of position, leading to less than ideal audio quality.
So can hearing aids be used with glasses? Definitely! Behind-the-ear hearing aids can be worn with glasses successfully, though it might seem like they’re mutually exclusive.
How to use glasses and hearing aids together
It might take a little bit of work, but whatever your style of hearing aid, it can be compatible with your glasses. For the intention of this article, we’ll be talking about behind-the-ear style hearing aids. Inside-the-canal hearing aids are really small and fit nearly entirely inside the ear so they aren’t really relevant here. There’s normally absolutely no conflict between inside-the-canal hearing aids and glasses.
Behind-the-ear hearing aids, however, sit behind your ear. They’re connected by a wire to a speaker that sits in your ear canal. Each type of hearing aid has its own advantages and weaknesses, so you should talk to us about what type of hearing aid would be appropriate for your hearing needs.
An inside-the-canal hearing aid won’t be the best option for everyone but if you wear your glasses all day, they’re something you might want to think about. To be able to hear sufficiently, 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.
Your glasses might require some adjustment
The level 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. Work with your optician to pick out a glasses style that will suit your hearing aids.
And it’s also significant to make sure your glasses fit correctly. You want them snug (but not too tight) and you want to make certain they aren’t too loose. If your glasses are jiggling around everywhere, you may compromise your hearing aid results.
Don’t be afraid to use accessories
So how can you wear glasses and hearing aids at the same time? There are lots of other individuals who are coping with difficulties managing hearing aids with glasses, so you’re not by yourself. This is good news because it means that there are devices you can use to make things a bit easier. Here are a few of those devices:
- Retention bands: You put these bands on your glasses to help them stay in place. These are a good idea if you’re a more active person.
- Anti-slip hooks: These hooks also help to prevent your glasses from sliding all over the place (and possibly moving your hearing aids with them). They’re a bit more subtle than a retention band.
- Specially designed devices: Wearing your hearing aids and glasses together will be much easier if you make use of the wide range of devices on the market designed to do just that. Devices include pieces of cloth that hold your hearing aids in place and glasses with hearing aids built right in.
The goal with all of these devices is to secure your hearing aids, hold your glasses in place, and keep you feeling comfortable.
Can glasses trigger hearing aid feedback?
Some people who use glasses with their hearing aids do report more feedback. It isn’t a very common complaint but it does occur. In some cases, the feedback you experience might be caused by something else (like a tv speaker or mobile phone speaker).
Still, if you’re experiencing hearing aid feedback and interference and you believe that your glasses are the problem, consult us about possible fixes.
The best way to wear your hearing aids and glasses
If you make sure that your devices are properly worn you can prevent many of the problems related to using glasses and hearing aids at the same time. Having them fit well is the key!
Here’s how you can go about doing that:
First put on your glasses. When it comes to adjustment, your glasses are larger so they will have less wiggle room.
Then, carefully place your hearing aid shell between your outer ear and the earpiece of your glasses. The earpiece of your glasses should be up against your head.
After both are comfortably set up, you can put the microphone of the hearing aid in your ear.
That’s all there is to it! That being said, you will still need some practice taking off your glasses and putting them back on without bumping your hearing aid out of position.
Keep up with both your glasses and your hearing aids
If either of your devices (hearing aids or glasses) isn’t well taken care of, the conflict between the two can be amplified. Things break sometimes! But those breakages can often be prevented with a bit of maintenance and routine care.
For your hearing aids:
- Keep your hearing aids in a cool, dry place when you aren’t wearing them.
- Make certain to clean your hearing aids at least once a week.
- Be sure to recharge your battery when needed (if your hearing aid is rechargeable).
- The right tools (a soft pick and a brush) should be utilized to remove earwax and debris.
For your glasses:
- When you aren’t using, keep in a case. If you don’t have a case, just keep them in a dry place where they won’t be inadvertently smashed or stepped on.
- 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.
- When your glasses get dirty, clean them. At least once a day is the best plan.
- Bring your glasses to your optician if they stop fitting properly.
Sometimes you need professional help
Hearing aids and glasses are both specialized devices (even though they might not seem like it on the surface). This means that it’s essential to speak with professionals who can help you determine the best fit possible for both your hearing aids and your glasses.
Preventing problems rather than attempting to fix them later can be accomplished by getting the right help to start with.
Your glasses and hearing aids can get along with each other
Like one of those family feuds that’s been going on too long (with plenty of close-ups, obviously), it’s now time to accept that glasses and hearing aids don’t have to be enemies. Sure, it can, at times, 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.