Best Hearing Aids for Seniors
Only one in seven over-50s living in the U.S. who need hearing aids are using them. For many missing out on regaining their hearing, it’s simply the result of a lack of knowledge about the types of hearing aids available.
Completely-in-Canal Hearing Aids
Completely-in-canal hearing aids are ideal for those wanting a discrete solution to hearing loss. That’s because these nifty devices sit comfortably inside your ear canal and are almost completely invisible.
While you should never feel ashamed for using hearing aids, we understand that it may be your priority to keep them out of sight. If this applies to you, your best bet is to invest in a pair of completely-in-canal hearing aids.
CICs are usually very small in size, meaning that you can receive sounds from nature and loved ones — which are passed through a microphone to your eardrum. Completely-in-canal hearing aids are comfortable and deliver clear sound, reconnecting you with the world around you once again. The only challenge with this option is that their discrete design means that you’ll need to change the batteries more frequently.
In-the-Canal Hearing Aids
In-the-canal hearing aids or ITCs are a great option if you’re less worried about the devices being hidden from view. While these hearing aids are very similar to completely-in-canal hearing aids, a small amount of each device is visible from the outside of your ear canal.
The advantage of opting for ITC hearing aids over CICs is that their slightly larger design allows for volume controls that simply wouldn’t be possible on the smaller design of a completely in-canal device. There is still the issue to consider of smaller batteries needing frequent charging, however.
In-the-Ear Hearing Aids
You may have noticed by now that all these hearing aids sit exactly as described, and in-the-ear devices are no different. Unlike completely in-canal and in-the-canal types, ITE hearing aids sit in the opening of your ear canal rather than deeper inside the canal itself. This means that they’re more visible while not protruding.
These devices are bigger than CICs and ITCS, meaning that they have longer battery life and more controls to enhance your hearing experience.
Behind-the-Ear Hearing Aids
Behind-the-ear hearing aids, also known as BTE hearing aids, are perhaps the best-known of the options. That’s because it’s a visible device that, as the name suggests, fits snuggly behind your ear. While less discrete, this type of hearing loss solution has a larger battery than in-canal alternatives — meaning less time recharging, as well as more controls and features on the device itself.
Cochlear Hearing Aid Implants
Cochlear hearing aids differ from the standard hearing aids discussed above — making them a viable alternative option to consider. Cochlear devices are especially useful to those with extremely bad hearing. The reason these devices are often referred to as implants is because, not only is there a device that sits behind your ear just like BTEs, but there is a portion that is surgically placed under the skin.
What are Hearing Aids?
If you’re unfamiliar with what exactly hearing aids are, they’re small electronic devices that sit within or outside of each of your ear canals. These intelligent aids are designed to improve your hearing, which is very important for your balance, quality of life and ability to retain social relationships.
How to Decide
When choosing which hearing device option is right for you, it’s important to consider factors including personal preference, price and reviews.
Many brands are making high-quality hearing aids but with varying prices across the different types. It’s always wise to consider your budget before making a decision.
Expert reviews are also hugely valuable during the decision-making process. Look for assurances from industry professionals as to the quality and functionality of your desired hearing aid solution. Customer reviews can also help direct you to reputable brands.
Fundamentally, the hearing loss solution you opt for will depend on your personal needs and preferences. Consider how discrete you want the device to be and how important factors like battery life are to you. Compare options within each category to find the hearing aid that’s right for you.
Your journey to better hearing starts here. It’s time to get excited about reconnecting with the world around you.
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