There comes a time in many people’s lives when they have to consider whether they need hearing aids. Some of us find that our hearing worsens as we age until it becomes unmanageable without some kind of intervention. Others will find that problems develop much faster due to medical issues. Either way, everyone should find a solution that works for their hearing problem. This is not a one-size-fits-all system, especially when you work with a hearing professional who understands all the devices, their potential benefits, and their possible drawbacks. With the right expert care, you can find the right hearing aid for you. Here’s a quick guide to some of the different options available and their pros and cons. You can then use it to help you narrow down your choices and get the perfect one.
behind-the-ear hearing aids
The most well-known option is behind-the-ear hearing aids. These headphones have a mold inside the ear and a device on the back. They are common due to their effectiveness and low cost. Regardless of budget and the severity of the hearing problem, there are affordable solutions available to most people. External devices like this are also easy to use and install, especially if you have any flexibility issues. All you need to do is put the device in place, turn it on, and make sure the volume is at the right level. This accessibility also makes these auxiliary devices more user-friendly when replacing batteries. An inevitable problem with wearing hearing aids is batteries draining during calls, so it helps if you can easily replace them.
One oft-cited reason people dislike these devices is that they are visible. People who don’t want their hearing loss to be public knowledge may feel uncomfortable with these devices behind their ears. In recent years, these devices have become more streamlined and beautiful, but far from invisible. Of course, some users will like the new design, and it’s worth asking what options and colors are available. These designs are especially beneficial for teens who want to embrace their hearing loss and individuality rather than hide it.
Many users find that exposure to the natural environment and nearby sensations can make these devices more sensitive and increase hearing problems. When they are near another person, they hear the sound of wind or whistling. This is always going to be a problem when your device is constantly exposed. Newer technology means the problem isn’t as severe as it once was, but it may still be too frustrating for all new users.
In-the-ear hearing aids
If you are completely opposed to having a hearing aid that is visible behind your ear, you can put something inside your ear. One obvious benefit of wearing in-the-ear hearing aids is that they are more discreet. You can put them on your ears in the morning and start your day without it being obvious that you have any hearing aids. You also don’t get the same amount of wind noise as standard over-the-ear hearing aids. These devices may also be more comfortable if you don’t like the feel of full external headphones and molds in your ears.
The downside to this method is that they can become harder to use and harder to keep clean. Anything in your ears will eventually pick up earwax. Healthy earwax is good for our ears, but not good for the device. Therefore, you will have to spend some time cleaning the device and its gaps to ensure that it is functioning as well as possible. As for ease of use, having something in your ear does make it more difficult to get it in place and adjust the volume as needed.
canal hearing aid
If in-the-ear hearing aids sound better than behind-the-ear hearing aids, you may also want to look into canal hearing aids. These models sit deeper inside the ear canal and are less noticeable to others than in-ear models. There are also options called invisible-in-the-canal hearing aids, which are harder to detect.
Potential issues here include usability and ease of use. Not all hearing centers will have these options, so you will need to find a supplier in Belfast that offers a full range of high-quality hearing aids. If you find them, you have to consider how to keep them clean and whether you can fit them comfortably into your ears. There is also a cost factor, as state-of-the-art assistive equipment will be more expensive. Likewise, when you work with a high-end hearing center, you’re more likely to find options that fit your budget.
Which type of hearing aid is right for you?
The best approach when choosing a hearing aid is to discuss your options with your hearing center team. They will discuss the options with you, let you see the equipment and how it works, and provide you with all the important information you need to make an informed choice. You can also discuss how to care for your equipment, handle spare batteries, and schedule appointments for future exams and other treatments. It may sound scary to think about hearing aids now, but it doesn’t have to be. Once you find the model that you think is most effective, comfortable, and user-friendly, you’ll quickly get used to it. Soon, you’ll find that your hearing problems are a thing of the past and you now have an expert care team to help you through the years to come.
