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Hearing Aids: How They Work, Types, Reviews

- Content Writer/Editor for Disabled World
Published: 2009/01/17 - Updated: 2022/04/21
Topic: Hearing Aids and Devices (Publications Database)

Page Content: Synopsis Introduction Main Item

Synopsis: Information regarding hearing aids including how they work what to look for when purchasing and digital hearing aid comparisons.

A hearing aid, or deaf-aid, is defined as an electro-acoustic device designed to amplify sound for the wearer, usually with the aim of making speech more intelligible, and to correct impaired hearing as measured by audiometry. Hearing aids are incapable of truly correcting a hearing loss; they are an aid to make sounds more accessible.

In order for the hearing aid to work, you must still have some hearing left. You are unique and so is your hearing, this is why there are many styles of hearing aids and brands. One hearing aid might not work as well for one person as it did for someone else.

Introduction

If you have a hearing loss like millions of other Americans, buying a hearing aid can greatly enhance your life. Buying a hearing aid can be costly and confusing, here are some tips you might want to consider before buying one.

Main Item

What Defines a Hearing Aid?

A hearing aid, or deaf-aid, is defined as an electro-acoustic device designed to amplify sound for the wearer, usually with the aim of making speech more intelligible, and to correct impaired hearing as measured by audiometry. Hearing aids are incapable of truly correcting a hearing loss; they are an aid to make sounds more accessible.

Hearing aids are considered medical devices and in the U.S. are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Ordinary small audio amplifiers or other plain sound reinforcing systems cannot be sold as "hearing aids" in the United States.

How Does a Hearing Aid Work?

A hearing aid is an electronic device with a small microphone that makes sounds louder. In order for the hearing aid to work, you must still have some hearing left. You are unique and so is your hearing, this is why there are many styles of hearing aids and brands. One hearing aid might not work as well for one person as it did for someone else.

Why Do People Lose Their Hearing?

There are basically two types of hearing loss: Conductive and Sensorineural.

Get a Hearing Check Up

First have your hearing tested by an audiologist or hearing specialist, then based upon their recommendation, see your doctor to rule out correctable causes of hearing loss such as earwax, a middle ear infection, or a tumor.

The type of hearing aid that is best suited for you will be determined in part by the type and level of hearing loss you have. The professional will be able to assess your hearing needs so you can choose the correct hearing aid.

Buying a Hearing Aid

What To Consider

Analog vs. Digital Hearing Aids

Years ago, hearing aids were all analog. Today, most hearing aids are digital. Digital hearing aids provide high quality sound amplification, advanced features and fine-tuning that was not possible with analog aids. Some companies still make analog hearing aids, however, be sure to compare these with the digital ones before making your final decision.

Styles Of Hearing Aids

There are 4 main styles of hearing aids available. The style you are best suited for depends on the type of hearing loss you have as well as your comfort.

Different styles of hearing aids

Features

These range from the necessary, such as noise-canceling, to the more luxurious, such as remote control.

Digital hearing aids offer state-of-the-art technology that helps to reduce feedback and allows for clearer hearing even in situations where there is background noise. Digital hearing aids offer more options for adjustments than analog hearing aids, making it easier to adapt to a new hearing aid.

Budget

Once you know the style of hearing aid that suits you best, compare prices across various brands, as they vary greatly. The prices are most expensive for hearing aids with the latest technology and advanced features. Even if you don't have a lot to spend, you will still be able to find a quality hearing aid with enough features to fulfill your needs.

Warranties

When choosing a hearing aid, it is important to ask about the warranty. Find out the warranty period and what is covered. Ask if any fitting problems are covered because this could get expensive if multiple trips are needed.

Choose One Or Two Hearing Aids

If you have hearing loss in only one ear, you will do well with only one hearing aid. However, as both ears tend to be affected by age and noise related hearing loss, wearing two hearing aids will actually help you to differentiate and determine where sounds are coming from. Most digital hearing aids require two to be worn to achieve maximum benefits.

Hearing aids have changed a lot since they were invented, now they're so small most people don't even notice when you're wearing one! These modern-day hearing aids have numerous advanced features. There is a hearing aid suitable for everyone, regardless of your budget and hearing requirement.

Digital hearing aids offer more advantages over the older, analog version. Many hearing aid manufacturers no longer produce analog models and focus all of their attention on producing newer digital models. Prices of digital hearing aids have fallen, which is another reason why analog hearing aids are dying out.

Digital Hearing Aids from Starkey

Starkey Laboratories is the world's largest manufacturer of hearing instruments. Starkey was the first major hearing aid provider to give a product warranty and free trial period. Starkey produces a number of digital hearing aid models, including Cierra, Aspect and Mesa.

Starkey is an innovative company and is the first to use nanoscience technology in its Destiny range. The top of the range offering from Starkey is Eli, which can be used with Bluetooth phones.

Digital Hearing Aids from Rexton

There are three main categories of Rexton digital hearing aids: entry-level, mid-level and high-level.

Phonak Hearing Aids

Phonak is a worldwide company with headquarters in Switzerland. They offer specialized hearing instruments, which are available in a wide array of products to suit your hearing loss and budget.

Phonak also has wireless hearing aid solutions.

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Page Information, Citing and Disclaimer

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Cite This Page (APA): Langtree, I. C. (2009, January 17 - Last revised: 2022, April 21). Hearing Aids: How They Work, Types, Reviews. Disabled World. Retrieved December 10, 2024 from www.disabled-world.com/assistivedevices/hearing/hearing-aids.php

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