Tips for choosing the right hearing aids
Selecting the right hearing aids can be a daunting task due to the variety of models and features available.
Key factors to consider when choosing a hearing aid
Hearing aids help people with hearing loss communicate more effectively and enjoy a better quality of life. Selecting the right hearing aids can be a daunting task due to the variety of models and features available. The following factors should be considered when choosing a hearing aid:
1. Understanding your hearing loss
The first step in choosing the right hearing aids is to understand the nature and extent of your hearing loss. Hearing loss can vary in severity and frequency range, and not all hearing aids are suitable for all degrees of hearing loss.
A comprehensive hearing evaluation by an audiologist will provide you with detailed information about your hearing loss and your audiologist can tell what choices you have.
2. Considering your lifestyle
Your lifestyle plays a significant role in determining the type of hearing aid that will best suit your needs. If you lead an active lifestyle and frequently engage in outdoor activities, you may need a hearing aid that is durable and resistant to moisture and dust. On the other hand, if you spend a lot of time in quiet environments, you may prioritise features such as sound clarity and comfort. But be careful here, maybe you do not go out so much anymore because of your hearing loss. Well-chosen hearing aids may make life more enjoyable again and open up (again) a world of possibilities.
3. Evaluate the features
Most modern hearing aids come with a wide range of features designed to enhance your listening experience. So, unless you go for very basic models, you will be able to enjoy the following:
- Noise Reduction: Helps to minimise background noise, making listening in noise more comfortable.
- Directional microphones: Improve the ability to understand speech in noise with less effort.
- Bluetooth: Connect to smartphones and other devices for a seamless audio experience.
- Rechargeable batteries: Enjoy the convenience and cost savings compared to disposable batteries.
4. Choose the right style
Hearing aids come in various styles, each with its own advantages. The main styles include:
- Behind-the-Ear (BTE): These most popular hearing aids are worn behind the ear and are suitable for the widest range of hearing loss. They are generally easy to handle and maintain and some of these are so small, that they become nearly invisible when worn.
- In-the-Ear (ITE): These custom-made hearing aids fit entirely within the outer ear and are sometimes less, sometimes more visible than BTE models. They are suitable for mild to moderate hearing loss.
- In-the-Canal (ITC) and Completely-in-the-Canal (CIC): These are smaller and more discreet hearing aids that fit partially or completely in the ear canal. They are suitable for mild to moderate hearing loss, but they are definitely more challenging to handle.
5. Choose the right colour
Many models have a wide variety of colours on offer. A common mistake is to pick the colour from samples in your hand, not samples on your ears. If you want hearing aids to be inconspicuous, they should match the colour of your hair, not your skin. But bright colours are also making a great statement. Or go for elegant silver. It is up to you!
6. Listen to your audiologist
Your audiologist has many years of higher education and experience, and they can guide you to the right choice, based on your hearing loss and personal preferences. They will also inform you what options are available or if certain choices are not wise to make. Every audiologist strives to give you the best possible hearing health care advice.
For more information on hearing and hearing loss, call your nearest Ear Institute or the Hearing Helpline at 0861-10-20-30
Authors
- Dr. Marinda Uys, Principal Eduplex Training Institute and Audiologist
- Drs. Hans E. Mülder, Physicist, Audiologist