Selecting the right hearing aid can have a profound effect on your lifestyle and well-being, so it’s important to take a bit of time when deciding on a device. After all, every individual’s hearing needs are unique, and your hearing aid requirements may differ from your loved one’s.
Choosing the right hearing aid ensures comfort and reliability. It’s essential to have your hearing needs met by a qualified audiologist, but it’s just as important for you to have a say in the choice of device. This guide is here to help you with those choices so that you can feel confident you’re making an informed decision for your needs.Types of hearing aids: What are your options?
Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids
BTE hearing aids are among the most common and versatile types of hearing aids. They consist of a small casing worn behind the ear, connected to a custom earpiece or earmould via a thin tube or wire. BTE aids are suitable for various degrees of hearing loss, from mild to profound.
Their larger size allows for powerful amplification and additional features such as directional microphones. You can also expect bigger rechargeable batteries for increased longevity.
For some people, it’s helpful to have a larger hearing aid to act as a visual cue so others can recognise you have hearing loss and be clearer in their communication style.
In-the-ear (ITE) Hearing Aids
In-ear hearing aids, on the other hand, are discreet devices popular among individuals seeking a more subtle option. These custom-made hearing aids fit entirely inside the ear canal or fill the outer portion of the ear.
ITE aids come in different styles and form factors, catering to varying preferences for visibility and comfort. Designs include:
Completely-in-canal (CIC)
In-the-canal (ITC)
Full-shell designs
While ITE aids offer natural sound quality and enhanced directionality, their smaller size may limit the inclusion of advanced features such as hearing loop technology. But if your main concern is prioritising aesthetics and discretion, ITE hearing aids provide the best solution.
Areas to consider when choosing a hearing aid
So, to make sure you have a hearing aid that suits your needs and lifestyle, what do you need to consider? Here are a few key factors to take into account when looking at hearing aid comparison.
Size and discreetness
Size and discreetness play a significant role in the comfort and acceptance of hearing aids. While larger devices like BTE models offer more features, smaller options such as ITE aids provide greater discretion. Taking time to consider your lifestyle and aesthetic choices can help determine the type of device that would best suit you.
Budget
Budget is one of the main considerations for most users. Hearing aids vary widely in price, depending on factors such as technology, features, size, and compatibility with other technologies such as smartphones.
The NHS tends to offer behind-the-ear hearing aids, only. So if you’d prefer a more discreet ITE design, it’s worth balancing your budget with the features and benefits you desire.
Battery life
Have you ever charged your smartphone battery overnight, only to find it at 30% by lunchtime? Then you’ll know how a long-lasting battery can make all the difference — and the same goes for your hearing aid. A longer battery life can offer added convenience, especially when you have an active and busy lifestyle.
You may also want to look at whether or not you can replace the battery in your device, or if you’re bound to the manufacturer's choice.
Additional features
From noise reduction to help you hear clearly in crowded settings to directional microphones, Bluetooth connectivity, and telecoil compatibility, contemporary hearing devices come equipped with a range of additional features designed to improve performance and user experience.
Think about which features are most important to you based on your daily activities and communication needs. This will help you choose the best type of hearing aid for you.
Care and maintenance
Proper care and maintenance are essential for prolonging the lifespan of your hearing aid and ensuring optimal performance. Regular cleaning, battery replacement, and servicing by a qualified audiologist are necessary to prevent damage and maintain functionality.
BTE models have the obvious advantage of being larger and easier to handle. In contrast, you may need to send smaller, more fiddly ITE models back to the manufacturer for repair and maintenance. It’s worth taking the maintenance needs of different hearing aid types into account when making a decision.
Manufacturers and providers
It’s also important to look for a trusted and reliable hearing aid supplier. Where possible, look for manufacturers and providers who offer assurance with warranties, repair services, and maintenance guarantees. These offer peace of mind, knowing that you get long-term reliability and help when it's needed most.
Comparing hearing aid providers to find the best one for you
With so many different types of hearing aids available, knowing how to narrow down the choices can seem tricky at first. If you’re searching for a high-quality hearing aid from a trusted supplier, try platforms like SpotDif to make your hearing aid comparison smooth and straightforward.
*Collaborative post
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