How to Choose the Right Hearing Aid

Posted by Casandra Lee in Hearing Aid Lifestyle

If you have hearing loss, hearing aids can improve your perception of sound by amplifying the noises around you. All hearing aids use the same basic components, but they are available in numerous styles with a wide range of features to choose from. Use this guide to help you find the right hearing aid for your needs and lifestyle.

Hearing Aid Styles

Hearing aid technology has advanced in recent years. Devices are now smaller, less noticeable, and more powerful than ever. Here are the styles that may interest you:

• Completely-in-the-canal (CIC) or mini CIC hearing aids are molded to fit inside your ear canal. They are the smallest and least visible hearing aids, but some lack advanced features and may be susceptible to wax buildup.
• In-the-canal (ITC) hearing aids fit partially in the ear canal. They are still less visible than larger hearing aids while offering some features not available with CIC devices.
• In-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids are available in full-shell and half-shell models. They offer more advanced features but are easier to see than CIC or ITC hearing aids.
• Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids have a tube connecting the hearing aid portion to a custom earmold that sits in your ear canal. Modern designs are miniature and streamlined, making them barely visible.
• Receiver-in-canal (RIC) or receiver-in-the-ear (RITE) hearing aids are similar to BTE devices, but a tiny wire, rather than tubing, connects the behind-the-ear portion to the receiver sitting in the ear canal.
• Open fit hearing aids keep the ear canal open, making your own voice sound better to you. These may be ideal if you have better low-frequency hearing and mild to moderate high-frequency hearing loss.

Hearing Aid Features

To improve your sound perception and user satisfaction, look for these advanced features:

• Wind noise reduction makes outdoor activities more enjoyable.
• Directional microphones improve your ability to hear in environments with lots of background noise.
• Rechargeable batteries eliminate the need to change the battery.
• Telecoils make it easier to pick up sounds from hearing-aid-compatible phones and speakers.
• Wireless connectivity allows you to interface with Bluetooth-enabled phones, music players, computers, and TVs. A corresponding mobile app lets you use your phone as a remote control.
• Direct audio input facilitates a corded connection to a music player, computer, or TV.
• Variable programming saves multiple settings for various listening environments.

Synchronization allows for simpler control if you have two hearing aids.
A hearing consultation at Elite Hearing Centers of America is the first step toward better hearing! After performing a free hearing test and assessing your personal and family medical history, we may recommend hearing aids.
We are committed to only fitting the highest quality hearing aids from today’s top manufacturers. Plus, we offer a free, 30-day hearing aid trial. No cost, no-obligation, no kidding. To schedule your free hearing test and consultation, please call us at 855-432-7354 or contact us online today. You’ll be glad you did!