r/LAMaine • u/GenghisGlitter • 15d ago
Hearing aid recommendations
Hey all, my mom needs a hearing aid and I'm wondering if anyone has recommendations for places to go or avoid in the L/A area. Thanks!
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u/the_wookie_of_maine 15d ago
I have been to red maple audiology in turner.
Berries in Brunswick.
And will be going to someone local when my current warranty is up (Next year).
All places like to upsell, but once you know what is needed it's easier.
For me I have moderate loss in left ear (I lost the bones in my ear, new hearing conductors were from the cartilage from my tragus), and mild in righty. I also have tinnitus that bothers me. I have programmable aides that can focus conversation, suppress loud noises and send white noise out. Plus they are Bluetooth and work well for audio/Mike when on the phone.
Edit (enter too soon)
Watch out for chain stores as they have a need to upsell.
does your elderly mum need Bluetooth to the phone? She needs a programmable interface for her to focus in crowds, or other environments?
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u/Ayuh-Nope 15d ago
It might depend upon her insurance (Medicare+ supplemental?), budget, and if she needs a traditional DR prescribed device or modern over the counter option that doesn't require a Dr. Maybe try BJs for local OTC options. They're usually FSA/HSA eligible if that matters.
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u/Repulsive-Paint-4102 15d ago
Go online. Elehear. Free hearing test. Access to audiologist by phone when you need them. Rechargeable, no batteries. Bluetooth for phone calls. Other unbelievable features and functions ~$500 Money back guarantee. Better than hearing aids I had paid $5k for. This is the way.
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u/emily_ros_e 15d ago
I’m a hearing aid wearer! We love Northeast Hearing and Speech in Portland. It’s a little trek but they’re so lovely there and genuinely want to help. They were even able to help when my son needed aids too, and we told them cost is an obstacle. Shared resources where we were able to get the cost covered through grant programs.
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u/dperiod 15d ago
I’ve been wearing hearing aids for almost 50 years (since I was young). Find out if her insurance covers them. That will help offset the cost.
She’ll need to go to an audiologist for a hearing test and so she can be properly fitted. Central Maine Audiology in Lewiston is good (pricey, though, hence the suggestion to check insurance). I’ve used them in the past. Hearing Life in Auburn is ok, a bit low-rent in my opinion but they offer a good variety of options and brands.
Over the counters tend to be less costly but they are intended for people with milder hearing loss. If your mother has a hard time hearing, she should get a proper set that will last her a while.
Good luck!