Those with hearing loss in both ears benefit most from wearing a hearing aid in each ear. Being fitted with “binaural” hearing instruments provides the listener with a better ability to locate sounds. This increased “localizing” capability occurs by being able to differentiate between the spatial location of the desired speaker and undesired noise. When spatial separation is present, the central auditory system normally functions to allow the suppression of undesired background noise and the capacity to concentrate on desired speech. To better understand the advantage of binaural listening over monaural listening, those with normal hearing should try plugging one ear with a finger while trying to hear the words of a conversation partner in a noisy restaurant.
P.S. One advantage of wearing two hearing instruments is increased tinnitus suppression.
Proper hearing promotes better communication. When an uncorrected hearing impairment causes the loss of special moments in your life, it’s time to rediscover the benefits of healthy hearing and learn about the marvelous wonders now available in hearing instruments. Come see us at EAR & HEARING CLINIC and discover how today’s hearing aids are virtually disappearing from sight whether you’re wearing one instrument or two. At our three convenient locations, we offer a complete range of hearing healthcare services including helping with pairing Bluetooth devices.