If you’ve already gotten a hearing test to diagnose your type and degree of hearing loss, the next step is to select a hearing aid. There are so many manufacturers, styles and features on the market that the choices can seem overwhelming. Fortunately, your audiologist is here to help you choose the right device for your lifestyle needs.
Lifestyle Needs Assessment
Your audiologist will conduct a lifestyle needs assessment to determine what style and features you would most benefit from. During this assessment, they’ll ask you what kinds of activities you participate in, such as:
- Quiet at-home activities.
- One-on-one conversations.
- Small group conversations.
- Business meetings
- Outdoor activities.
- Dining out.
- Conferences/large gatherings.
If you participate in activities with demanding listening situations, your audiologist will recommend a higher-tier level of technology than someone who prefers quieter activities.
Hearing Aid Styles
The style of hearing aid you get is based on your type and degree of hearing loss, as well as your aesthetic preference. While you may want a hearing aid that is small and discreet, this may only be an option if you have a milder form of hearing loss. Below, we break down common hearing aid types and who can wear them:
- Behind-the-ear (BTE). BTEs are suitable for a wide range of hearing losses, from mild to profound. They are often recommended for children, as the earmold can easily be replaced as your child grows.
- Receiver-in-canal (RIC) and Receiver-in-the-ear (RITE). RICs and RITEs are also suitable for a wide range of hearing losses, and they let low-frequency sounds in more naturally.
- In-the-ear (ITE). ITEs, also known as low-profile hearing aids, are ideal for people with mild to severe hearing loss. Their large size makes them good for people with dexterity issues.
- In-the-canal (ITC). ITCs work for people with mild to moderate hearing loss.
- Invisible-in-the-canal (IIC) and completely-in-the-canal (CIC). IICs and CICs are also suitable for people with mild to moderate hearing loss and are the most discreet options.
- Open-fit. Open-fit hearing aids are great for people with mild to moderate high-frequency hearing loss.
Hearing Aid Features
Your audiologist will also consider what features you would want in your hearing aids when selecting a model that is right for you. Common features in today’s hearing aids include:
- Bluetooth®
- Smartphone compatibility.
- Directional microphones.
- Background noise reduction.
- Machine-learning.
- Tinnitus masking.
For more information about choosing a hearing aid, call the experts at PDX ENT today.
