Ask Anna: Will hearing aids make me deafer?

Ask Anna is a weekly advice column for the hearing loss community. 

Dear Anna:  I’m 66 years old and have had great hearing my entire life, but recently I noticed that it’s becoming more difficult to hear when I’m in a noisy restaurant or talking on the phone. Occasionally my children have mentioned that I should get hearing aids, but I’ve heard that hearing aids can make my hearing worse. Can hearing aids make me deafer? – Apprehensive Mom in UK

Dear Apprehensive Mom, 

As a first step I would suggest that you book an appointment to get your hearing tested with a hearing care professional. They will be able to advise you on whether hearing aids could help.

In regards to your concern, it is a myth that hearing aids make your hearing worse. Hearing aids are designed to enhance the hearing that you have so that hearing speech and environmental sounds becomes easier again. Hearing aids can also be adjusted in extremely minute increments, which ensures you’re getting the correct volume levels for your hearing needs. Many new digital hearing aids have a variety of programs you can use for various situations: some will adjust automatically, and some have remote controls for discrete adjustment.

Just as computers and cell phones, hearing aid technology is changing at a very fast pace. Learn about other common hearing aid myths or reach out to a local audiologist who will also be able to provide you the latest information. 

Good luck on your journey to better hearing and please post again if you have more questions!

Do you have a question for Anna? Let us know in the comments before, or email: feedback@hearinglikeme.com

The information provided through this website should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease. It is not a substitute for professional care. If you have or suspect you may have a health problem, you should consult your health care provider. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on the Hearing Like Me website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency medical services immediately.

• Author Details

Author Details

Anna Biggins

Anna is currently the Senior Audiology Manager at Phonak. She has worked in the field of audiology and hearing aids for 25 years, and is passionate about all things audiology.