The options are varied when selecting the correct hearing aid style for your needs. There are different factors to consider, including cost and fit, as well as the degree of hearing loss.
It’s important to note that hearing aids cannot heal hearing loss completely. Instead, they facilitate the hearing process by amplifying the sounds your ears have difficulty hearing. Nonetheless, hearing aids are essential to an improved quality of life for people with hearing loss.
To help you best decide which hearing aid to choose, we have compiled a detailed guide on the different types of hearing aids on the market.
We will also provide tips to reference when making your decision.
Let’s dive in so you can get on your journey to happy, healthy hearing.
Steps to Follow Before Purchasing Your Hearing Aid
There are several factors to consider and steps to follow before deciding which hearing aid will suit your lifestyle, budget, and style. Here are a few tips to follow:
Get a hearing evaluation
A hearing evaluation will help you to understand your hearing loss better. During a hearing evaluation, a hearing specialist will perform a series of in-depth tests to determine the type of hearing loss and the severity of your condition.
Unlike a hearing screening, a hearing evaluation will provide more information regarding your condition.
Ask about the probation period.
Ask your hearing specialist about the trial period associated with different hearing aids. With so many kinds and styles of hearing aids on the market, you want the flexibility to change your mind if the fit isn’t right.
Consider the financial implications.
Hearing aids can be costly, especially in the long run. On average, you’re looking at paying around $2,000 per device. And if your hearing condition worsens over time, you may need to replace your first hearing aids with ones that offer more capabilities.
Find out about warranty and replacement options.
In line with the financial cost, you want a hearing aid that offers you a comprehensive warranty and maybe even cost-effective replacement in case of damage or loss. Asking about the contract ahead of time will enable you to make a more informed decision about which hearing aid to choose.
Select the right hearing aid for your condition.
Not all hearing aids will fit every hearing-loss situation. For example, some hearing aids are better suited for mild to moderate hearing loss, while others cater to profound hearing loss.
Other hearing aids are more visible, which may not suit you if you are self-conscious about wearing assistive hearing devices.
Understanding your diagnosis and what you want from your hearing aid will help you decide.
Different Types of Hearing Aids
Today, digital hearing aids come in two main categories: behind-the-ear and in-the-ear. Here is a list of the eight main types of digital hearing aids:
1) Behind-the-ear
2) Mini behind-the-ear
3) Receiver-in-canal
4) In-the-ear
5) In-the-canal
6) Completely in-the-canal
7) Invisible-in-canal
8) Lyric
Each of these different types of hearing aids comes with advantages and drawbacks. The table below is a quick reference guide to help you decide which hearing aid to choose.
| Type | Description | Visibility | Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Behind-the-ear (BTE) | The central part of this hearing aid sits behind the ear, with a transmitting canal going into the ear. | Visible from the outside. | Due to its larger size, BTE hearing aids require little manual dexterity, and they suit most hearing conditions. | The BTE hearing aid is prominent and visible and less effective at limiting wind interference. |
| Mini behind-the-ear (Mini BTE) | The Mini BTE is much smaller and less visible than the BTE but offers the same features. | While the earmold or receiver sits in the ear, the main body of the hearing aid is still visible from the outside. | The design of the Mini BTE makes it less likely to be damaged by moisture or earwax buildup. | The Mini BTE is still quite visible. |
| Receiver-in-canal (RIC) | The RIC main body is behind the ear, with the receiver inside the ear canal. | The main body is visible from the outside, while a small wire to the receiver can also be seen. | Due to its size, the RIC is easy to clean and can use more technology. | RIC devices are generally more expensive than traditional behind-the-ear hearing aids. |
| In-the-ear (ITE) | Each ITE hearing aid is made uniquely to fit into your ear and work for all degrees of hearing loss. | The main component of the hearing aid is visible from the outside. | As a hearing aid inside the ear, the ITE offers extensive technology, such as directional microphones and telecoils. | Occlusion is likely to occur if not vented correctly. |
| In-the-canal (ITC) | The ITC is fitted deep inside the ear canal and offers a more discreet design. | A small part is visible in the ear from the outside. | The small size makes the ITC a better option for hearing aid users self-conscious about their condition. | The technology able to fit into an ITC hearing aid is limited owing to its size. |
| Completely in canal (CIC) | The CIC hearing aid sits almost entirely inside your ear canal. | Barely visible from the outside. | Due to its customized style, the CIC will fit comfortably. | The small size of the CIC makes it challenging for those with limited dexterity. |
| Invisible-in-canal (IIC) | Like the other in-canal options, the IIC rests deep inside the ear canal and can be removed using a transparent string. | Completely invisible from the outside. | Like the CIC, the IIC is custom-designed to fit perfectly inside your ear. | The position of the IIC makes it prone to damage from moisture or earwax buildup. |
| Lyric | The Lyric is the only hearing aid wearers can use full-time, without removing it for sleep or other activities. | Completely invisible from the outside. | The Lyric is versatile and convenient for active individuals, as it only needs a battery replacement every few months. | The Lyric device must be installed by a certified Lyric professional, which can be challenging in emergencies or when traveling. |
Tech to Look Out For
Hearing aids have been adapted to suit users’ needs over the years, and the technological features in modern hearing aids increase the overall hearing experience and functionality of devices.
Some of the key features include:
- Directional microphones
- Rechargeable batteries
- Telecoils
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Noise-reduction features
- Remote controls
- Direct audio input
- Preset programming
- Synchronization between hearing aids in binaural users.
If your hearing aid has these popular features, you will have a good hearing experience with them. So, make sure to double-check the technological offerings of your selected hearing aid.
Get the Hearing Help You Need
The guide above will help you make the best decision for your hearing health. Choosing the right hearing aid to fit your needs is complex, but you do not need to do it alone.
At Hearing Associates of Las Vegas, our team of aural specialists is well-equipped to conduct hearing evaluations and advise you on which hearing aid will suit your lifestyle, budget, and hearing condition best.
info@hearingassociateslv.com
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