Hearing Aids

Hearing Aid Overview

Hearing aids help people with hearing loss communicate and hear better by amplifying sound. The devices of today are technologically advanced and are available in all shapes, sizes, and colors to suit anyone's personal preferences. Depending on the severity and type of hearing loss, people may be restricted to using only specific types of hearing aids, which will be programmed to meet their individual audio requirements. Hearing aids also have the ability to distinguish between voices and other interfering sounds to deliver clear, undistorted speech. They are small, non-invasive electronic devices that sit behind or inside the ear and amplify sound while reducing background noise. Here, we explore the different types and features of hearing aids.

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Types of Hearing Aids

Invisible-In-Canal (IIC)

Completely-In-Canal (CIC)

In-The-Canal (ITC)

ReSound Microphone in Helix (MIH)

In-The-Ear (ITE)

Receiver-In-Canal (RIC)

Behind-The-Ear (BTE)

Elderly man with hearing loss adjusting hearing aid settings on phone

Hearing Aid Features

Rechargeable batteries are a great feature to look for when considering a hearing aid purchase. This is because rechargeable batteries eliminate the need to constantly buy and replace traditional zinc-air disposable batteries, allowing users to keep their hearing aids functioning with minimal fuss and expense. Thanks to advanced charging technologies, these lithium-ion batteries can often be fully recharged in as little as two hours and hold their charge for extended periods of time - providing users with added convenience and peace of mind. Furthermore, many of the latest models offer wireless charging, where the devices just need to be placed on a charging surface when not in use. With rechargeable batteries, users are able to focus on other matters without worrying about replacements.

Digital Signal Processing is one of the most essential features of modern hearing aids. Harnessing the power of computer processing and algorithms, this technology is able to analyze sound waves and identify different frequencies to determine which sounds should be amplified in accordance with the user's preferences and hearing requirements. This makes understanding and hearing sounds much easier for those with hearing difficulties. In fact, the improved sound clarity offered by digital signal processing technologies can enhance the wearer's listening experience in both quiet and noisy environments, allowing them to better discern speech, or even music, from background noise. It also increases battery life since DSP only amplifies desired frequencies when they are present. Overall, the benefits that it offers make DSP an invaluable feature to have in a hearing aid.

One of the most useful features of modern hearing aids is feedback cancellation. This technology works to combat the loud, screeching noises that are emitted when sound circulating in the user's ear is picked up by the hearing aid microphone and sent back through the device's speaker. In essence, it acts as a filter to mitigate this uncomfortable audio experience. Feedback cancellation allows users to enjoy their day-to-day engagements without interruption and have peace of mind. With feedback cancellation, they don't need to worry about abrupt high-pitched noises suddenly ruining their conversations or activities. Ultimately, this feature is incredibly beneficial for hearing aid users, as it allows them to maintain an active lifestyle and continue socializing comfortably with friends and family members without adverse sound interference.

Like rechargeable batteries, Bluetooth connectivity is an extremely convenient feature that is becoming standard on many of today's hearing aids. This technology allows users to wirelessly connect their hearing aids to various Bluetooth-compatible devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and other electronics. With this feature, users can control the volume and settings of their hearing aid with their mobile device, stream audio directly from other sources, receive phone calls, and customize sound profiles - all without the constraints of a physical connection. With Bluetooth technology, people can enjoy music or watch TV while moving around freely, as long as they stay within range of the source. Furthermore, this feature improves audio quality as it is emitted directly from the user's hearing aid speaker and is untainted by background noise. When it comes to hearing aid features, nothing enhances productivity, accessibility, and convenience like wireless connectivity.

Tinnitus masking is a unique feature that is often overlooked and provides a simple portable solution for tinnitus management. This technology works by producing low-level background or white noise with specific tones and frequencies, which can help minimize the perception of tinnitus symptoms. Additionally, the use of tinnitus masking allows people to enhance concentration and hearing in noisy environments while simultaneously concealing the adverse effects associated with tinnitus. While no hearing aid can cure the underlying cause of this condition, the use of masking technology is an effective method for providing relief from its stressful, debilitating symptoms. For those suffering from tinnitus, this feature can be vital to improving their listening experience, their peace of mind, and overall their quality of life.