How To Choose A Hearing Aid That’s Right For You

While hearing aids can’t restore normal hearing, they can improve your ability to hear and boost your overall quality of life. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the different types available, and tell you how to choose the right one for you.

All hearing aids, regardless of the type, have a microphone, an amplifier, and a speaker.

Sounds that enter the microphone are converted to electrical signals. The power of these signals is boosted once they pass through the amplifier. They are then sent to the ear through a speaker.

Analog vs. Digital Hearing Aids

-Analog hearing aids convert sound waves into electrical signals. These are less expensive than digital hearing aids.

-Digital hearing aids convert sound waves to numerical codes. These can be programmed to amplify some frequencies more than others to better match the needs and listening environments of their wearers.

Hearing aids can also be differentiated by where you place them and how they work:

-Behind-the-ear (BTE): The battery, microphone, and controls are all contained in a compartment that sits behind/on top of the outer ear.  A clear tube routes the sound down into the ear canal via an earmold.

-In-the-canal (ITC): Made to fit the size and shape of your ear, the lightweight plastic shell comfortably sits inside the canal. 

-In-the-ear (ITE): The parts are contained in a small shell that sits in the ear canal. They are usually custom-fit and installing a telecoil will make it easier to hear when taking on the phone.

-Receiver-in-canal (RIC): Sound is delivered directly into the ear because the receiver is very small and fits inside the ear canal. The hearing aid that sits behind the ear is connected by an almost invisible ‘receiver wire’.

Finding the Right Hearing Aid

Hearing loss can differ from person to person, so finding the hearing aid that works best for you will take some trial and error.

Start by having your hearing tested. Once your audiologist determines the type and severity of your hearing loss, they will recommend a few options. Don’t purchase a hearing aid online before talking to your audiologist.

Once you decide on a style, ask for a trial before you purchase them. Or make sure the hearing aids are fully refundable if you decide to return them.