Choosing a hearing aid can feel overwhelming, especially with the numerous available options. Thankfully, All About Audiology’s hearing care professionals help make the process easier by matching each person with the right device. Whether someone has mild hearing loss or more advanced needs, there is a solution that is designed to fit their lifestyle, hearing goals, and comfort.
What Hearing Aids Do and Why They Matter
Hearing aids make sounds easier to hear by picking up the sounds, processing them, and then delivering them into the ear at a volume and clarity appropriate for the user. Hearing aids are small, yet powerful tools that can bring back daily sounds, reduce the mental strain resulting from trying to hear, and make conversations clearer.
Since hearing loss varies from person to person, there are different devices to meet various needs. Hearing care providers look at the type and degree of your hearing loss, along with personal and physical comfort and how someone wishes to use the device, well before they make a recommendation.
Behind-the-Ear (BTE) Hearing Aids
BTE hearing aids are the most traditional and rest comfortably behind the ear. They are connected to an earmold or ear tip by a small wire or tube. These are among the most common types of hearing aids and work well for all levels of hearing loss. Some of the benefits of BTE hearing aids include:
- Easy to handle and clean
- Long battery life or rechargeable options
- Suitable for people with limited dexterity
- Reliable and durable
This style is most often chosen for children and adults with significant hearing needs due to the strong performance and flexibility.
Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) and Receiver-in-the-Ear (RITE)
These devices are quite similar to BTE models but use a thin wire to send sound to a tiny speaker that is placed in the ear canal. They are lightweight and less visible than the traditional BTE styles. Some of the benefits of RIC and RITE hearing aids include:
- Comfortable and discreet
- Natural sound quality
- Can adjust to different environments
RIC and RITE hearing aids are the perfect option for those with mild to moderate hearing loss who prefer a subtle design with power.
In-the-Ear (ITE) Hearing Aids
ITE hearing aids fit entirely inside the outer part of the ear. They come in two distinct sizes, the full or half shell, and are custom-made for each wearer. Some of the benefits of the ITE hearing aids include:
- Larger design allows for easy controls
- Good option for those who wear glasses
- Clear sound and simple handling
ITE models are best suited to people with mild to severe hearing loss and are often recommended for those who have a preference for fewer visible parts.
In-the-Canal (ITC) and Completely-in-Canal (CIC)
ITC and CIC hearing aids are much smaller than most other models and fit partly or entirely inside the ear canal. This makes the devices less noticeable, and they are often chosen for this cosmetic reason. Some of the benefits of ITC and CIC hearing aids are:
- Nearly invisible when worn
- Lightweight and snug
- Natural sound direction
These styles are best for mild to moderate hearing loss. Due to their small size, these devices may be harder to adjust or maintain for those with limited hand control.
Invisible-in-Canal (IIC) Hearing Aids
IIC hearing aids are placed by a hearing health professional deep within the ear canal. These are the smallest of the hearing aids and are nearly impossible to see when worn. Still, they offer a natural sound experience. The benefits of the IIC include:
- Completely hidden
- Reduces wind noise
- Comfortable for extended wear
IIC hearing aids are best suited for mild to moderate hearing loss and for those who do not want it known they are wearing hearing aids.
Why Choose?
Hearing aids have come so far in recent years. From the powerful BTE models to the nearly invisible IIC options, there is a solution for your type of hearing loss. With the right type of support, choosing a hearing aid is the first step toward clearer conversations, greater confidence, and an active lifestyle.
Hearing better starts with knowing your options. We can help.
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