Hearing Aid Myths vs. Facts: Don’t Let Misconceptions Hold You Back

Myth 

 Fact Check (The Truth) 

 What You Should Know / Do 

1. Hearing aids are only for old people 

 Hearing loss isn’t limited to the elderly. It can affect newborns, teenagers, adults, and seniors alike. Many  young professionals and students in India experience hearing loss due to headphone overuse, infections,  or untreated conditions. 

 If you or a loved one struggles to follow conversations, especially in noisy places,  don’t wait for “old age.” Book a hearing test early. Early intervention always leads to  better outcomes. 

2. Hearing aids are big and ugly 

 That used to be true decades ago, but not anymore. Today’s hearing aids—like Zenaud NOVA™—are ultra-  compact, skin-toned, and fit discreetly inside your ear. In-the-Canal (ITC) and Completely-in-Canal (CIC)  models are practically invisible. 

 Visit a clinic and try different models. Choose one based on comfort and visibility.  No one needs to know you're even wearing one. 

3. Hearing aids restore hearing to normal 

 Hearing aids don’t “cure” hearing loss—they help you hear better by amplifying and shaping sound. Like  spectacles don’t fix your eyesight but help you see better, hearing aids improve clarity and understanding. 

 The more consistently you wear your hearing aids, the more your brain adapts.  Don’t expect instant results—improvement builds over days and weeks. 

4. One hearing aid is enough 

 If you have hearing loss in both ears (which most people do), using just one aid can create imbalance. It’s  like wearing glasses with only one lens—your brain doesn’t get a complete picture.  

 Dual hearing aids improve speech clarity, spatial awareness, and reduce listening  fatigue. Follow your audiologist’s recommendation for best results. 

5. Hearing aids make everything too loud 

 Modern hearing aids are smart—they don’t just make everything louder. They enhance speech and reduce  background noise. Premium models automatically adapt based on your environment. 

 Make sure your hearing aids are professionally tuned and adjusted. You can  customise volume and modes using mobile apps in most modern devices. 

6. Hearing aids are painful or uncomfortable 

 Discomfort usually comes from poor fitting, not the device itself. Custom molds and soft tips are available  for different ear shapes, and most users adapt quickly to the feel. 

 Ask for a trial fitting. Most clinics offer a 7–14 day adaptation period. Report any  pressure or irritation early—it can usually be fixed easily. 

7. Hearing aids whistle or make weird sounds 

 That whistling (called feedback) only happens if the device isn’t fitted correctly or is blocked by wax. With  today’s digital feedback suppression, this issue is rare. 

 Keep your ears clean and your device serviced. If you hear feedback, visit your  audiologist for a quick adjustment. 

8. Hearing aids are too expensive for most people 

 While premium devices exist, affordable and EMI-based options are available. Brands like Zenaud offer  modern, rechargeable, and Bluetooth-enabled aids at various price points. 

 Don’t get discouraged by MRP—ask about payment plans, warranties, and bundled  services. It’s an investment in your quality of life. 

9. Buying online is cheaper and easier 

 Online purchases skip critical steps like fitting, customization, and audiological evaluation. It’s not like  buying earphones. Ill-fitted hearing aids can cause more harm than help. 

 Always consult a certified audiologist. Even if you discover a model online, get it  fitted and tuned professionally. 

10. Hearing aids don’t work in noisy places 

 Old hearing aids struggled with this, but modern devices use directional microphones and AI-based  filtering to distinguish speech from background noise—perfect for Indian weddings, traffic, and group chats. 

 Choose a device with multiple listening modes and background noise reduction.  Learn how to switch modes for different settings. 

11. You’ll become dependent on hearing aids 

 Hearing aids don’t create dependency—they fill a gap. Your brain processes sound better with consistent  input. Avoiding aids when needed can lead to social withdrawal, mental fatigue, and even cognitive  decline. 

 Think of hearing aids like glasses—they support you. The sooner you start using  them when prescribed, the better your outcomes will be. 

12. Hearing loss isn’t severe—it can wait 

 Hearing loss affects relationships, work productivity, safety, and mental health. Untreated hearing loss is   linked with loneliness, depression, and memory problems. 

 Don’t postpone hearing care. Early action prevents worsening. Hearing health care,  like dental or vision care, is routine and essential. 

13. Hearing aids are complicated to use 

 Modern hearing aids are built for ease. One-button controls, rechargeable batteries, smartphone  connectivity, and even voice control features make them user-friendly, even for seniors. 

 Ask your audiologist for a simple walkthrough. Many clinics offer Hindi, Telugu,  Tamil or Kannada onboarding guides. You’re never alone in the journey. 

14. All hearing aids are the same 

 Not true. They vary in style, technology, fit, and function. ITC, BTE, RIC, and CIC—each suit different hearing  profiles and preferences. Some are better for music, others for speech clarity. 

 Get a hearing test and consultation before choosing. What works for your friend  may not work for you. Your hearing loss is unique.  

15. I’ll get used to my hearing loss—I don’t need aids 

 Your brain never “adjusts” to missing sound—it stops processing what it can’t hear. This creates long-term  isolation and cognitive decline. Hearing aids reintroduce essential sound, keeping your mind sharp. 

 The longer you delay, the harder it becomes to adapt. Start now, and give yourself  a few weeks of daily use for full benefit.  

Concern 

Truth 

“People will notice and judge me.” 

Modern hearing aids are nearly invisible. Most people won't notice—and even if they do, hearing well is far more empowering than hiding your need. 

“It won’t match my skin tone or style.” 

Today’s hearing aids come in multiple shades and styles. ITC and CIC models are customised to your ear shape and skin tone. 

“It’s too technical for me.” 

Most hearing aids now have one-button control and automatic environment adjustment. No tech skills needed. 

“I’ll forget to charge or maintain it.” 

With daily routines, charging becomes second nature, just like charging your phone. Most devices last 18+ hours on a full charge. 

“It’s too late for me to start now.” 

It’s never too late. Even seniors in their 70s or 80s experience a dramatic quality-of-life improvement after getting hearing aids. 

Reason 

Explanation 

Helpful Insight / Tip 

1. Lack of Awareness and Education 

Hearing loss often goes unnoticed because it develops slowly. Most people aren’t taught to recognise the early signs, nor do they consider routine hearing check-ups. As a result, they rely on outdated beliefs or hearsay. 

Encourage yearly hearing tests—even without visible symptoms. The earlier you detect hearing loss, the easier it is to manage. Spread awareness within your family and social circles. 

2. Stigma and Social Image 

Many still associate hearing loss with aging, disability, or weakness. In traditional communities, people worry about being judged, which leads to hiding the issue rather than addressing it. 

Treat hearing aids like glasses—a tool to improve your quality of life. Choose discreet models like ITC or CIC for added confidence if needed. 

3. Fear of Technology 

Some assume hearing aids are complicated, especially older adults who aren't comfortable with gadgets. This fear makes them resist using something they believe they can’t manage. 

Most modern hearing aids have simple, one-touch controls or app-based settings. Centres offer hands-on training and onboarding in local languages. 

4. Cost Misconceptions 

There's a widespread belief that all hearing aids cost ₹1 lakh or more. This discourages people from exploring options, assuming it’s financially out of reach. 

Today, affordable and EMI-based hearing aids are available. Zenaud offers a range of hearing solutions suited for every budget. Always ask about financing plans. 

5. Cultural Silence Around Hearing Loss 

In many families, hearing loss is brushed aside or labeled as “just part of getting old.” The lack of open discussion makes it harder for individuals to ask for help or get encouragement. 

Talk openly about hearing struggles. Parents, spouses, and children should be part of the support system. Normalising the conversation reduces shame. 

6. Past Experiences with Outdated Devices 

If someone or their relatives tried bulky, feedback-prone hearing aids years ago, that memory sticks. They assume all hearing aids still behave the same way. 

Hearing aid tech has evolved tremendously—modern devices offer rechargeable batteries, Bluetooth, noise filtering, and invisible design. Ask for a free trial to feel the difference. 

7. Preference for Home Remedies or Waiting it Out 

Some believe hearing will “come back” on its own or try home tips like ear drops or oils instead of consulting professionals. 

Hearing loss rarely reverses on its own. Skipping treatment can worsen the condition. Trust verified audiologists over unproven remedies. 

Category 

❌ Outdated Perception 

✅ Modern Reality 

Design 

 Big, bulky, and visible 

 Compact, discreet (ITC/CIC), skin-toned  

Sound Quality 

 Amplifies everything—even noise 

 Enhances speech, reduces background sounds 

Comfort 

 Uncomfortable and irritating 

 Custom fit, soft tips, ergonomic feel 

Battery 

 Constant battery replacements 

 Rechargeable, long-lasting (18–24 hours) 

Ease of Use 

 Complicated controls 

 One-button or app-based control 

Connectivity 

 Can’t connect to other devices 

  Bluetooth & Auracast—stream audio, calls, TV 

Who It's For 

 Only for the elderly 

 Suitable for all age groups & lifestyles 

Maintenance 

 High-maintenance and fragile  

 Durable, dust-resistant, low upkeep 

Affordability 

 Only premium, expensive options 

 Budget-friendly with EMI options available 

Social Image 

 Embarrassing or “weak” 

 Empowering tool for clarity and confidence 

Barrier 

 Why It Holds People Back 

 Actionable Way to Overcome It 

“People will judge me if I wear hearing aids.” 

 Social anxiety is one of the biggest reasons people delay treatment. Fear of being  labelled as “old” or “disabled” leads to silence and suffering. 

 Choose modern, discreet styles like ITC or CIC. Remind yourself that clear communication is far more  empowering than hiding the issue. Confidence is visible—so is the relief of hearing again. 

“What will my family think?” 

 Many hesitate because they fear judgment at home—especially from spouses,  children, or relatives. 

 Start the conversation with loved ones. Educate them about hearing loss and ask for support. A shared  understanding makes it easier to seek help. 

“I’ll look weak in public.” 

 Cultural pressure to appear “strong” or “healthy” often stops men and women  alike from using assistive devices. 

 Remember: Spectacles, walking sticks, or even smartphones are all tools to enhance life—so are hearing  aids. Reframe the mindset: hearing better is strength, not weakness. 

“I’m too old to start now.” 

 Many seniors think there’s no point in improving hearing at their age, or fear they  won’t learn how to use new devices. 

 It’s never too late. Hearing better helps improve memory, safety, and mood—no matter your age. Clinics  offer senior-friendly onboarding. 

“I’ll wait till it gets worse.” 

 Waiting often leads to frustration, isolation, and cognitive decline. Gradual loss  feels manageable—until it's not. 

 Treat hearing loss early, like any health condition. The earlier you begin, the easier your brain adapts, and  the better the results. 

“Hearing aids are complicated.” 

 Some assume they'll need tech knowledge or daily adjustments. 

 Modern hearing aids are simple to use. Most have automatic settings and long battery life. Your audiologist  will walk you through it. 

“I don’t want to talk about it.”  

 Avoiding the topic leads to silence—literally and emotionally. Many suffer alone  for years. 

 Be kind to yourself. Take the first step privately with a hearing test. You don’t have to decide everything in  one  day—start small.