3 FAQs About Hearing Aid Styles

Living with hearing loss is challenging, but modern hearing aid technology offers many solutions. These devices can improve your ability to hear and communicate more easily. However, choosing the right hearing aid can be confusing due to the variety of styles and features available. Here are four common questions about hearing aid styles to help you better understand your options and make a more informed decision when selecting a hearing aid.

What are the Main Hearing Aid Styles Available?

There are several main styles of hearing aids, each designed to fit different needs and preferences. In-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids are custom-made to fit inside the ear, offering features like volume control and directional microphones for improved sound quality. They work well for individuals with mild-to-moderately-severe hearing loss. Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids sit behind the ear and are connected to an earmold or dome that fits inside the ear canal. These are great for individuals with mild-to-profound hearing loss and are known for their durability and ease of use, with added features like telecoil and rechargeable options.

In-the-canal (ITC) hearing aids are smaller than ITE models and fit partially inside the ear canal, offering a more discreet appearance and natural sound quality. ITC aids are best for people with mild-to-moderate hearing loss who prefer a less visible device but still need clear amplification. There are also invisible-in-the-canal (IIC) and completely-in-canal (CIC) hearing aids available too for those looking for more discreet solutions for mild-to-moderate hearing loss. IIC models sit deep within your ear canal for easy use. CIC styles fit completely inside. Both styles can provide suitable hearing solutions.

Which Hearing Aid Style Is the Best for Me?

Choosing the right hearing aid style depends on several factors, including the severity of your hearing loss, lifestyle considerations and personal preferences. A qualified audiologist will assess your hearing needs and recommend one based on specific communication goals and personal circumstances. It’s important that a full hearing evaluation and consultation take place before you are looking at any style.

What Features are Available with Hearing Aids?

Hearing aids come with a variety of features designed to improve sound quality and make daily life easier. Many models include background noise reduction to help you hear speech more clearly in busy places. Some have directional microphones that focus on sounds in front of you while reducing noise from other directions. Rechargeable batteries are available in many styles, removing the need to change batteries regularly. Wireless connectivity allows hearing aids to connect to smartphones, TVs and other devices for easy audio streaming. Other options, like telecoil technology, improve sound quality during phone calls or in public places with hearing loops. With so many features available, it’s important to choose a hearing aid that fits both your lifestyle and hearing needs.

Understanding your hearing aid options is important when selecting an aid style. By consulting an audiologist, they can offer tailored recommendations based on your hearing needs, lifestyle choices and preferences. Keep in mind that everyone’s hearing loss is different. What works for one person may not work for another. If you want to learn more about hearing aid styles, schedule an appointment with an audiologist.