New Hearing Aid Wireless Technology
Sometimes I still cannot wrap my mind around my smartphone. With a tap of the screen I can have food delivered, order some shoes or even have a car pick me up. Who knew when cellphones first came out (and they were the size of a brick) that they would soon be able to fit in your pocket and have more power than a computer?
The same thing is true with hearing aids. The hearing aids that led the way, even a few years ago, cannot compare to the level of technology available in the current models. This is especially true with the improvements made in wireless technology.
Why Hearing Aid Wireless Technology Helps You
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Control
Wireless technology ensures you can control your hearing aids from remotes, or apps on your smartphones. You are able to change the program or adjust the volume, all without touching the device. This also enables manufacturers to create hearing aids with fewer buttons, freeing up room for additional features.
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Connectivity
Probably the most obvious use of wireless technology is your ability to pair all of your other devices with your hearing aid. You will be able to answer phone calls, listen to music and even hear directions from your phone’s GPS. You will also be able to utilize hearing loops, FM and infrared systems to help you hear better in large conference centers or small classrooms.
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Localization
One thing those with a hearing loss miss when using their hearing aids is the binaural hearing they were used to. We have two ears for a reason; the brain is able to quickly analyze the timing and level differences of the sounds it hears to figure out which side of the head the sounds are coming from. But until recently, those who needed two hearing aids had to go without, as traditional hearing aids worked independently of each other. Now, hearing aids are able to communicate with each other. The devices are able to actually compare the timing and level differences of sounds received in the microphone and provide the brain with correct information.
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Sound Quality
Wireless technology has enabled those with hearing loss who use two hearing aids to have an improved experience. New hearing aids are able to communicate with each other. This means they are able to digitally process sound and both switch to the correct mode in only nanoseconds. This drastically improves the sound quality.
No time like the present to speak to your Portland audiologist. Your hearing expert will help choose the right hearing aid for you, depending on your type and degree of hearing loss.
