My father is in a nursing home and confined to a wheelchair. He needs new hearing aids. Is there anything that would be beneficial for his lifestyle?

Question: My father is in a nursing home and confined to a wheelchair. He needs new hearing aids. Is there anything that would be beneficial for his lifestyle?

Answer: Knowing that he will be sitting most of the time suggests his hearing aid microphones should accommodate specific directionality. Be sure his hearing aids direct speech to his ears from behind him for when someone is pushing the wheelchair. Also, though conversation will often be directed over him, the microphones should pick up all around him as well. Safety cord attachments can be added to secure them to his clothing and prevent accidental loss. His initials can be imprinted on the case for identification. Keep the aids insured in case of loss or damage beyond repair. Hearing aids need routine cleaning, so ask a family member to check the aids each week when changing the battery.