Wearing more than one assistive device can pose a problem. It can be difficult to manage both your glasses and hearing aids on your ears together. Our blog is packed full of tips to make wearing your hearing aids and glasses at the same time much easier!

With aging’s influence on vision and hearing, it is estimated that by 2030, as many as 14 million older U.S. adults will develop Dual Sensory Loss (DSL). So, it is likely that you may face the task of wearing hearing aids and glasses at the same time. (There are companies working towards releasing glasses with built in hearing aids – keep an eye out for this technology update this year!) Both the positioning of hearing aids and the size of eyeglasses have physical constraints. Wearing them together can be uncomfortable for some people.

Here are the biggest concerns:

• Pressure: Both hearing aids and glasses use your ears to anchor them in place. This can result in pressure being placed in the same area and you may experience some pain.
• Decreased audio quality: Your glasses may knock your hearing aids out of place, resulting in less optimal audio quality that you hear.
• Irritation: Your hearing aids and glasses may rub on your skin and cause irritation.
• Feedback: Some glasses-wearing hearing aid users report hearing feedback. Although it is not a common occurrence, it can still happen. Sometimes it can simply be the receiver that is causing the feedback. If you are experiencing this issue, please contact us. We would be happy to assist you on this matter.
  

These obstacles do not mean that it is impossible to wear glasses and behind-the-ear hearing aids at the simultaneously!

How To Wear Hearing Aids and Glasses at the Same Time

Perhaps in-the-ear hearing aids may work for you. These hearing aids do not have any components that go behind the ear. Talk with your audiologist if you are interested in this style of hearing aid. Each type of hearing aid has its own benefits and drawbacks and it is best to discuss with a professional to determine if they will meet your needs.

If you have behind-the-ear or receiver-in-canal hearing aids, you may face the challenges we have discussed. But do not worry, there are strategies you can use to mitigate the impacts.

Accessories

There are devices available to help you wear your hearing aids and glasses together. These include anti-slip hooks, retention bands, and other specially designed devices. These devices will keep you more comfortable while securely holding your glasses and hearing aids in place.

Adjust Your Glasses

The style and type of glasses you have can greatly impact your comfort while also wearing hearing aids. It may be worth the investment to get thinner frames. Speak with your optometrist about the best fit for you that is compatible with your hearing aids. Be sure that your glasses fit securely and are not jiggling around.

How To Put On Your Hearing Aids and Glasses

Having your devices fit right is the key to comfortable wearing and can prevent many problems! Put your glasses on first. Next, place the shell of your hearing aid between your glasses earpiece and your outer ear. This puts the glasses against your head. Once you have these components comfortable, then you can place the microphone inside of your ear. Practice removing your glasses without displacing your hearing aids. Be sure to follow these steps and you are good to go!

Do not be afraid to seek help. The sooner you address any issues you are experiencing with a professional, the quicker you will succeed with your devices and the fewer problems you will have down the road. By seeing and hearing better, you will be empowered to more safely experience an improved and happier quality of life. We are here to help you find the hearing aids that will best meet your needs. Contact us today to schedule a hearing aid evaluation.