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Hearing Technology Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated

An audiologist conducting a hearing aid consultation and going over modern hearing aid technology.

Hearing technology has advanced to make your life easier, not harder. Modern hearing aids are designed with features that simplify their use, making them user-friendly for people of all ages and lifestyles.

Whether you’re an older adult exploring hearing solutions, a caregiver helping a loved one, or someone hesitant about using technology, this guide is here to break down the essentials. Let’s make hearing technology simple and stress-free.

How Do Hearing Aids Work?

Hearing aids are small devices with a big job. These tools need to incorporate complex technology into a small component. In simplified terms, hearing aids function in 4 parts:

  • Microphone: Captures external sounds.
  • Processor: Analyzes and amplifies sounds to match your hearing needs.
  • Speaker: Delivers the enhanced sound directly into your ear canal.
  • Feedback Suppression: Reduces annoying whistling or buzzing noises.

Types of Hearing Aids

There are many different hearing aid types and cost levels. Hearing aid styles cater to different hearing loss severity, style preferences, lifestyle constraints, and cost needs. Hearing aid types are often referred to by the placement in the ear canal. Here are three examples of common hearing aid types:

  • Behind-the-Ear (BTE): Rests comfortably behind the ear and connects to an earpiece. Suitable for mild to severe hearing loss.
  • In-the-Ear (ITE): Custom-fit to the outer ear, offering ease of handling for those with dexterity challenges.
  • In-the-Canal (ITC) and Completely-in-Canal (CIC): Discreet options that fit partially or entirely in the ear canal. Ideal for mild to moderate hearing loss.

In addition to the above, there are also over-the-counter hearing device options available as well as CROS and BiCROS device options. As technology advances, new hearing aid styles will likely materialize. Lucky for you, your audiologist does not expect you to know what hearing aid style is best suited for you. When you suspect you have hearing loss or feel your listening device doesn’t suit your needs, be sure to consult a professional to understand what options are best for you.

What Features Make Today’s Hearing Aids Easy to Use

Hearing aids continue to undergo technological improvements to better the hearing experience of the individual and simplify the user experience overall. Most notably, hearing aids offer three convenient features that make them easier to use: Bluetooth connectivity, automatic adjustments, and rechargeable options. Let’s take a look at some hearing assistive technology examples to see how these work.

How Can Hearing Aids Connect to My Phone or TV?

Many hearing aids on the market have Bluetooth connectivity, which allows you to stream calls, music, and audio from your phone and TV directly to your ears.

Bluetooth technology makes connecting hearing aids to your favorite devices simple. Connecting your device the first time will vary depending on your hearing aid model and the device you are trying to connect to. Before connecting your hearing aids, ensure your device is compatible with Bluetooth and is turned on. Often, hearing aids will come with instructions to assist with connectivity to common devices like IOS and Android phones.

For more tips about connecting your Bluetooth hearing aids to your phone, watch our how-to video!

What Are the Benefits of Automatic Adjustments in Hearing Aids?

Ever wish your hearing aids could adapt to noisy restaurants or quiet libraries without manual adjustments? Automatic features make that possible by:

  • Adapting in Real-Time: Adjusting settings automatically as you move through different environments.
  • Improving Comfort: Providing clear, balanced sound without the need for constant tweaking

This hands-off approach allows you to focus on living your life, not managing your hearing aids.

What Advantages Do Rechargeable Hearing Aids Offer?

Realizing your hearing aids need new batteries adds an extra layer of stress and inconvenience to your day. Rechargeable hearing aids eliminate the need for disposable batteries, offering:

  • Convenience: No more searching for batteries when they run out.
  • Long-Term Cost Savings: Avoid the ongoing expense of replacement batteries.
  • Eco-Friendliness: Reduce waste and support sustainability.

Recharging your hearing aids is easy. Simply place your hearing aids in their charging case overnight, and they’ll be ready to go the next day.

Which Brand of Hearing Aid is Best

It depends! There are many well-known, reputable brands of hearing aids on the market, but the best hearing aid brand is the one that is best suited for you. Meeting with your audiologist will allow you to understand what models and brands of hearing aids best suit your needs and lifestyle.

How Long Will It Take to Get Used to My Hearing Aids?

Whether you’re getting hearing aids for the first time or upgrading to a new model, adjusting to hearing aids takes time and patience. Here’s what you can expect while adjusting to your new device:

  • Adaptation Period: It may take a few weeks to get used to amplified sounds.
  • Professional Guidance: Audiologists can fine-tune your settings and provide tips for a smooth transition.
  • Consistency: Wearing your hearing aids regularly helps your brain adjust more quickly.

Do Hearing Aids Work for Everyone?

Hearing aids are highly effective for most people with hearing loss, however, there are exceptions for those with profound hearing loss and certain medical conditions. To find out if hearing aids are the right avenue for you, consult a hearing specialist near you. Take the first step to better hearing and schedule your free hearing aid demo today at Hearing Health Solutions

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