Having options in life is to be welcomed but making the right choice is important, which certainly applies to hearing aids.
Once you have been diagnosed with a hearing loss that requires hearing aids it may feel a bit daunting, which is quite understandable, but the benefits of these mini marvels are worth it.
The options to choose from depend on the severity of hearing loss and personal preferences. Your Hearing Aid Audiologist will be at hand to help you and make suggestions based on your particular level of hearing loss.
There is a wide variety of hearing aids to choose from including:
- In the Ear (ITE) – custom made hearing aids which fit into the bowl shaped area of your outer ear instead of inside the ear canal. A popular choice due to their discreet size and comfortable fit.
- Receiver in Canal (RIC) – one of the most commonly worn hearing aids as they are small, subtle and available in a variety of designs and colours. They are a popular choice for first-time hearing aid wearers as they provide a more natural sound.
- Behind the Ear (BTE) – hearing aids which provide the most power, as well as being able to handle moderate to severe hearing loss. BTEs are even suitable for those with a profound hearing loss.
- Completely in Canal (CIC) –The smallest in-the-ear hearing aids that sit completely in your ear canal, making them very discreet. These are customised for your ear shape by taking impressions of your ear for a perfect fit.
There are options to suit different hearing requirements, lifestyle and budgets, which you can discuss with your audiologist who will programme the hearing aids for your needs. There are different sizes and colours and some are easier to use for people with limited dexterity.
The key is to have a conversation on what works for you. The best hearing aid is the one that someone will actually wear all the time, so personal preferences make a difference.
It takes a little time to get used to having a hearing aid. Some people may feel overwhelmed by the sound initially because the brain is not used to all the low level sounds, but with consistent use the brain will adapt.
Hearing aid technology has advanced and continues to be refined to improve people’s quality of life so they do not miss out on experiences that many take for granted.
If you have any concerns about your hearing or want some advice on hearing aids please call in at your local Scrivens branch, where we will provide a full hearing health check, free of charge. We recommend an annual hearing health check for anyone over 50 to identify any changes and see what action is needed.
