What to Consider When Choosing a Hearing Aid
Today’s hearing aids are designed with a more sleek and modern aesthetic compared to those of the past. The physical fit of a hearing aid has been researched to contour to your ear’s shape, ensuring comfort and stability throughout your day. This approach means less irritation, better retention, and a more discreet appearance. Even the color of your hearing aid can be customized to match your skin tone or hair color, making the aid less noticeable if you desire. On the other hand, it can purposely match your own personal style to make a fashion statement.
Your level of hearing loss, lifestyle needs and personal preferences all play a role in the hearing aid selection process. Some factors to consider include:
- Degree of hearing loss (power requirements)
- Desired appearance
- Anatomical/medical considerations
- Ability to see and handle small devices
- Lifestyle and listening needs
Ultimately, the best way to choose a hearing aid is to discuss your needs and preferences with a hearing professional. Book an appointment today and one of our providers will help match you with the right solution.
Hearing Aid Styles: Behind the Ear (BTE), Receiver in Canal (RIC), In the Ear (ITE), In the Canal (ITC), Completely in Canal (CIC)
Hearing aids are available in various styles, each designed to meet your personal preference, lifestyle need, and degree of your hearing loss. From the discreet models that sit comfortably inside the ear canal to those that rest behind the ear with a slightly noticeable presence, the current hearing aid marketplace offers something for every hearing treatment. The following section will highlight the styles of hearing aids available today, reviewing the features, benefits, and recommended patient profiles to help you or your loved ones make the best choice possible.
Types of Hearing Aids
Behind the Ear (BTE)
BTE hearing aids are known for their power and customizability. They are an excellent option for mild-to-profound hearing loss and are the preferred option for children because of their maturing ear anatomy. The slightly larger design allows for volume and programming controls, customizable fit options and a longer battery life.
Features and Benefits
- Durable and easy to handle
- Most comprehensive range of features and sound programming options
- Larger size allows for longer battery life
- Bluetooth and wireless connectivity
Receiver in Canal (RIC)
RIC hearing aids balance comfort and sleek design with an unparalleled sound experience. The receiver delivers sound directly into the ear canal, connecting to a small, lightweight unit that sits discreetly behind the ear. RICs are versatile devices that suit nearly all types of hearing loss, from mild to severe.
Features and Benefits
- Lightweight feel and flexible design
- More discreet than BTE models
- In-ear receiver delivers enhanced sound quality
- Bluetooth and wireless connectivity
In the Ear (ITE)
ITE hearing aids use the natural acoustics of your ear to amplify sound. They are custom molded to sit comfortably within the ear bowl and their larger size makes them easy to clean and adjust. The power and design of ITEs make them ideal for those with mild-to-severe hearing loss.
Features and Benefits
- Easy to adjust and maintain
- Custom-molded for a comfortable fit
- Longer battery life for all-day use
- Bluetooth and wireless connectivity
In the Canal (ITC)
While slightly larger and easier to handle than smaller canal models, ITC hearing aids are still fairly discreet and can be equipped with a wide range of features. Many ITC models are available with volume control and directional microphones, which can help wearers better adapt to different sound environments.
Features and Benefits
- Custom-molded for a comfortable fit
- Less noticeable appearance
- Best suited for mild-to-moderate hearing loss
- Bluetooth and wireless connectivity
Completely in Canal (CIC)
CIC hearing aids are custom-molded to sit within the ear canal, providing a natural, nearly invisible look. They work with the ear’s shape to direct sound to the microphone and enhance sound quality. Best suited for mild-to-moderate hearing loss, CIC hearing aids are a great option for wearers that live a more active lifestyle.
Features and Benefits
- Custom-molded, secure fit
- Nearly invisible look
- Reduced wind noise, whistling and feedback
- Bluetooth and wireless connectivity