Glasses With Built-In Hearing Aids: A Clever Combination or a Compromise?

For millions of people, putting on glasses and hearing aids is simply part of getting ready each morning. So why not combine the two?

Glasses incorporating hearing technology aren't an entirely new idea, but modern electronics have made the concept considerably more practical. 

Some devices incorporate conventional hearing-aid components into the arms of the spectacles, while others use technologies such as directional microphones or bone conduction.

For somebody who needs both vision and hearing assistance, they can sound like an ideal two-in-one solution. But there are advantages and disadvantages worth considering.

The advantages

One device instead of two: Perhaps the most obvious benefit is convenience. Put your glasses on and your hearing assistance comes with them. This may be particularly useful for people who find handling tiny conventional hearing aids difficult because of arthritis, reduced dexterity or poor eyesight.

Less equipment around the ears: Wearing spectacles and behind-the-ear hearing aids simultaneously can sometimes feel crowded. The arms of the glasses, hearing aids and perhaps even a face mask can all compete for the same limited space.

They can be discreet: Hearing technology incorporated into spectacle frames can be less immediately noticeable than some conventional hearing aids. For people who feel self-conscious about wearing hearing aids, this might encourage them to use their hearing assistance more consistently.

Bone-conduction possibilities: Some hearing glasses transmit sound through vibrations in the skull rather than relying entirely on sound travelling through the ear canal. Bone-conduction technology can be useful for particular types of hearing loss, although it certainly isn't suitable for everybody.

Modern technology: Depending upon the model, hearing glasses may offer features such as rechargeable batteries, Bluetooth connectivity and smartphone controls.

But there are disadvantages

The biggest drawback is equally obvious: you cannot easily separate your glasses from your hearing assistance.

Take your spectacles off to clean them, change into prescription sunglasses or simply rest your eyes and you may also lose your hearing assistance. If either part of the combined device develops a fault, you could temporarily lose both.

Choice can also be more restricted. Conventional hearing aids are available in an enormous range of designs, power levels and configurations. Combining them with spectacles inevitably reduces your options, particularly when it comes to choosing frames.

There is also the question of upgrading. Your eyesight and hearing don't necessarily change at the same rate. You might need a new spectacle prescription while being perfectly happy with the hearing technology, or want newer hearing aids while your glasses remain perfectly adequate.

Cost should also be considered. Specialist hearing glasses can be relatively expensive, and repairs or replacement frames may be more complicated than taking ordinary spectacles to your local optician.

Most importantly, hearing loss varies enormously. A system that works brilliantly for one person could be completely inappropriate for another.

Are hearing glasses worth considering?

Absolutely, particularly if you already wear spectacles throughout the day and dislike managing separate hearing aids.

However, don't choose them simply because the two-in-one concept sounds convenient. Have your hearing properly assessed and discuss the different options with a qualified hearing professional or audiologist. It is also worth asking whether you can trial the technology before committing to an expensive purchase.

And remember that unexplained or sudden hearing loss, hearing loss affecting only one ear, persistent tinnitus, dizziness, pain or discharge from the ear should be medically investigated rather than simply addressed by purchasing a hearing device.

Glasses with built-in hearing assistance are unlikely to replace conventional hearing aids for everyone. But for the right person, combining clearer vision and better hearing in one familiar item could be an extremely useful solution.

That’s Health provides general information and does not replace individual medical advice. If you are concerned about changes to your hearing or eyesight, consult an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.

Having tried spectacles with in-built hearing aids I found them to be very large and not what I would call fashionable. They are also very heavy to wear for any long period of time. 

Battery use is also an issue. They need frequent re-charging. Whilst I find it irritating to have to replace the batteries in my current hearing aids every couple of days, I'm not without my hearing aids at all as I carry some spare batteries with me.  

The Unknowingly Deaf: When Hearing Loss Creeps Up Without You Realising

Hearing loss is often imagined as something sudden, dramatic, or obvious. In reality, for millions of people, it happens slowly and quietly over many years. so quietly that they may not even realise it is happening.

The “unknowingly deaf” are people living with hearing loss without recognising the signs. They may think everyone mumbles these days. 

They may turn the television up louder than everyone else prefers. They may constantly ask people to repeat themselves. 

Some become known as “the loud one” in the family because they speak or shout far louder than necessary without realising it.

In many cases, the problem is gradual hearing deterioration combined with tinnitus, the persistent ringing, buzzing, hissing, or roaring sounds in the ears that only the sufferer can hear.

Tinnitus itself can be exhausting. For some people, it becomes a constant background noise that interferes with conversations and makes it difficult to distinguish speech, particularly in pubs, restaurants, supermarkets, or busy workplaces. 

Over time, the brain adapts in ways that can mask just how much hearing has actually been lost.

One of the biggest warning signs is volume. People with undiagnosed hearing loss often increase the volume of televisions, radios, phones, and even their own voices. Friends and family may notice long before the individual does.

Another common sign is misunderstanding conversations. Someone may answer the wrong question, laugh at the wrong moment, or appear distracted when, in truth, they simply have not heard properly. This can sometimes lead to frustration, embarrassment, social withdrawal, and even anxiety.

The issue is far more common than many realise. Hearing loss is not just an “old person’s problem.” Long-term exposure to loud music, industrial noise, headphones, traffic, machinery, concerts, and even repeated infections can all contribute. Stress and fatigue can also worsen tinnitus symptoms.

Unfortunately, many people delay getting help because hearing loss develops so gradually that it feels normal. Others fear stigma around hearing aids, despite modern devices being smaller, smarter, and more effective than ever before.

The good news is that recognising the problem is the first step. Simple hearing tests can identify early hearing damage, and treatment or hearing support can dramatically improve quality of life. Protecting hearing from further damage is equally important, especially in noisy environments.

If somebody you know constantly shouts, struggles to follow conversations, or keeps asking “What?” there may be more going on than simple distraction. They may genuinely not realise how much hearing they have lost.

Sometimes the people most affected by hearing loss are the last to notice it.

Your GP can organise a referral to the audiology department at your nearest NHS hospital, or you can book an appointment with a private audiologist, or check out the offerings from high street hearing aid centres. Some opticians not only offer hearing aid services they can offer combined spectacles and hearing aids.

The British Academy of Audiologists can be of help https://baaudiology.org 

Keep Them Clear and Clean: Why Hearing Aid Care Matters More Than You Think

Whether you’re wearing standard NHS-issued devices or have invested in premium, bespoke hearing aids, one thing remains absolutely essential: regular cleaning and proper maintenance.

It’s easy to assume that once fitted, hearing aids will simply do their job day in, day out. 

In reality, these small but sophisticated devices sit in one of the most challenging environments in the body, your ears. 

That means they are constantly exposed to earwax, moisture, dust, and skin oils, all of which can impact performance over time.

Everyday Build-Up = Everyday Problems

Even a small amount of wax or debris can block microphones and receivers, leading to:

Reduced sound clarity

Intermittent or distorted audio

Whistling or feedback issues

Complete device failure in some cases

The frustrating part? These issues often develop gradually, so you may not immediately realise your hearing quality has declined.

Daily Care Makes a Big Difference

Looking after your hearing aids doesn’t require specialist training, just a bit of consistency.

Simple daily habits include:

Wiping devices with a soft, dry cloth

Using a small brush to remove wax from openings

Storing them in a clean, dry case overnight

Keeping them away from heat and moisture

If your devices use batteries, checking and replacing them regularly also helps avoid unnecessary disruptions.

Don’t Skip Professional Checks

No matter how diligent you are at home, routine visits to your audiologist are vital.

Audiologists can:

Perform deep cleaning that goes beyond at-home care

Replace worn components like filters or tubing

Reprogramme devices if your hearing changes

Spot early signs of faults before they become costly problems

If you’re using NHS hearing aids, these services are typically included as part of your ongoing care. For private users, regular servicing protects what can be a significant financial investment.

NHS or Private? The Same Rules Apply

It doesn’t matter whether your hearing aids were provided by the NHS or purchased privately, they all require the same level of care and attention.

Neglecting maintenance can shorten the lifespan of your devices and, more importantly, reduce your ability to hear clearly in everyday situations. That can impact everything from conversations with loved ones to confidence in social settings.

A Small Effort for a Big Reward

Hearing aids are life-enhancing tools, but only when they’re working at their best. A few minutes of care each day, combined with regular professional check-ups, ensures you continue to get the clarity and support you rely on.

If you’ve not had your hearing aids checked in a while, consider this your nudge. 

Also, seek out videos on YouTube that will take you through how to maintain and care for your own particular hearing aid models.

You can also buy very useful general hearing aid care kits on Amazon. You can buy them at this link here via our Amazon shop:- https://amzn.to/4tUpDnr

This video shows you the pros and cons of different types of hearing aid:-

And if you are unsure if you need hearing aids check out the British Society of Audiologists 

https://www.thebsa.org.uk

Why You Should Always See a Qualified Audiologist, Not an Untrained Optician's Assistant, for Hearing Problems

Why You Should See a Qualified Audiologist in the UK.

When your hearing starts to fade or feels muffled, it’s tempting to pop into the nearest opticians offering a “free hearing test.” 

But before you book, it’s vital to understand the difference between a qualified audiologist and an untrained salesperson with a torch and a tablet.

Your hearing health deserves expert, professional care, not a rushed check by someone who might be more focused on selling hearing aids than identifying the real cause of your problem.

Why You Need a Qualified Audiologist

A qualified audiologist in the UK is a healthcare professional with a degree in audiology, registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), and often a member of the British Academy of Audiology (BAA) or the British Society of Hearing Aid Audiologists (BSHAA).

They have in-depth training to:

Carry out a comprehensive hearing test, not just a sales screening.

Diagnose the underlying causes of hearing loss, including wax build-up, infections, and inner-ear conditions.

Recognise when to refer you for expert ear, nose and throat (ENT) care.

Provide safe, effective ear wax removal and ongoing hearing support.

In contrast, many “hearing technicians” working in optician branches all over the UK have only attended short, uncertified, courses sponsored by manufacturers. 

They may have some understanding of how to fit a hearing aid, but they are not qualified to diagnose or treat hearing conditions.

A Personal Experience: Why Training Matters

My wife recently had a bout of dull, muffled hearing in one ear. Thinking it might be ear wax, she booked an ear wax removal appointment at a local opticians.

After a quick look the “hearing technician” confidently declared: “Those are the cleanest ears I’ve ever seen!”

My wife was charged £25 and sent away without any treatment or advice.

A few days later, still struggling to hear properly, she used olive oil drops at home. Not long after, she removed a large plug of dried ear wax, instantly restoring her hearing.

That massive blockage had been completely missed by someone who claimed to offer professional care. A qualified audiologist or trained ear wax removal specialist would have seen and safely removed it immediately.

The Dangers of Seeing an Untrained Person

Seeing someone without proper audiology qualifications can lead to:

Misdiagnosis: Wax, infection, or temporary blockages mistaken for permanent hearing loss.

Inappropriate treatment: You could be sold hearing aids you don’t need. Or the wrong type of hearing aids.

Missed medical warning signs: Certain hearing losses can signal serious health issues.

Wasted time and money: Paying for incomplete or inaccurate assessments.

When you’re searching online for a “hearing test near me”, make sure the provider lists qualified audiologists, not just “hearing advisers” or “consultants”.

How to Check a Hearing Professional’s Credentials

Before booking any appointment, ask:

Are you HCPC-registered as an audiologist or hearing aid dispenser?

What qualifications do you hold?

Are you a member of BAA or BSHAA?

You can confirm registration via the official HCPC register, here https://www.hcpc-uk.org

Protect Your Hearing, and Your Health

Hearing problems can impact communication, confidence, and even cognitive health. Getting expert help early from a qualified audiologist ensures you receive the right diagnosis and treatment, not guesswork or a sales pitch.

So next time your hearing feels off, don’t rely on an untrained optician’s assistant. Book an appointment with a registered audiologist or professional ear wax removal clinic instead.

Your ears are far too important to trust to anyone less than an expert.

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/earwax-build-up

https://baaudiology.org/careers/registration-options