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Discussion
Posted by annie_8
06/05/21 08:45 PM

Hi,

My almost 8 year old has had recurrent ear infections due to glue ear since she was 18 months old which have resulted in speech delay and mild hearing loss.

School have provided great support and we have muddled through due to being told that she is borderline with her hearing loss, although as her parents it is clear to us that she does not have normal level hearing ability. 

We are now looking at introducing a hearing aid but I'm feeling overwhelmed with all of the information and different types of hearing aids out there. I want something that my daughter isn't going to notice but will help her to hear better at school. The added complication is she wears glasses so that may not help with the behind the ear aids. Ideally we'd get something small and discreet but not sure how to get the ball rolling.

Does anyone have any tips on where to start with looking at hearing aids please? 🙂

Discussion
Posted by shortymcshorty
12/05/21 01:41 PM

Have you had any advice fron your audiologist?  My understanding is that you don't really have a choice on device For children if its being provived by the NHS.  At our clinic there were just various models of Phonak hearing aids, I think the size varies between models but the model depended on the level of hearing loss.

The phonak ones come in some great colours and my children always loved choosing the Ear moulds.  If you want something more subtle there is unusually a skin tone option.  My daughter also ears glasses and found that a straighter armed style worked better with her hearing aids but i think it's trail and error.  

If your daughter is prone to ear infections then raise it with your audiologist bcause the full moulds can lead to trapped moisture, they might suggest some different options.  You need a good Drying box at night and a puffer for drying the day.  

Good luck 

Discussion
Posted by signingmum
13/05/21 11:36 AM

My daughter wears glasses and hearing aids. We go to Specsavers and they make sure that the glasses are suitable for wearing with her hearing aids. She has no issues wearing both. It is making sure that it is right frame to fit with the hearing aids. If you need help then just let me know.

Discussion
Posted by happyc
13/05/21 01:42 PM

There is not usually a choice of hearing aids but I think if you are going along with getting one you yourself must have the attitude that you are happy to do what's best for her and make it something exciting (not something discreet or embarrassing) and your daughter will follow your leed. I have three children with a moderate hearing loss, my youngest with glue ear. They each have a different colour hearing and every time they get new impressions made for their moulds they choose a different colour for that oo (pink glitter etc). At first I was also debating if I should aid the glue ear child but watching a struggle socially and with language development was a major deciding factor. And we are so glad it was like turning on a light switch she is so well. My audiologist recommended I sterilizes the moulds (like baby bottles) and then puff out the moisture to prevent infection.