Countless individuals need hearing aids today. Some people don’t want to invest in these devices because they worry they will be obvious and detract from their appearance. Other individuals cannot afford to purchase prescription devices and have yet to look into over-the-counter models.
However, hearing loss can lead to cognitive decline and other health issues. Every person needs to explore the options today to find the right hearing aid style for their needs. Some people find that over-the-counter devices restore their hearing, while those with severe loss need prescription models. Regardless of which option best meets their needs, knowing the styles offered helps each person find devices they love that help them hear clearly again.
Completely-in-the-Canal (CIC) Assistive Devices
CIC assistive devices must be obtained through a hearing healthcare professional, as they are molded to fit entirely within the user’s ear canal. These devices are practically invisible when worn and block wind noise. However, the batteries are tiny and have a short life. Furthermore, the devices typically lack additional features, and the speaker can become clogged with earwax.
In-the-Canal (ITC) Hearing Aids
ITC hearing aids are similar to CIC devices in many ways but they only fit partly in the user’s ear canal. They are hard to see but aren’t invisible. Nevertheless, they often come with features not found in CIC devices, such as directional microphones. Users might also find it difficult to adjust the features due to the small sizes of the devices. As with CIC devices, earwax may clog the speaker.
In-the-Ear (ITE) Devices
ITE devices come in two styles. One type fits most of the outer ear, while the second only fills in the lower half of the outer ear. Individuals with moderate-to-severe hearing loss often benefit from an ITE device, as these models come with directional microphones to allow for clear hearing in noisy settings. These models also have other features that are not found on smaller devices. However, they may pick up wind noise, and earwax can clog the speaker.
Behind-the-Ear (BTE) Hearing Aids
Behind-the-ear devices hook over the ear and sit behind the ear. This piece connects to various earpiece styles, and many come with a tube that connects to an ear mold in the ear canal. These devices are beneficial for any level of hearing loss, including individuals with severe loss. Newer models are smaller and harder to see. The hearing aids feature directional microphones and amplify sounds better than smaller devices, but they may pick up more wind noise.
Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) Assistive Devices
Also known as receiver-in-the-ear devices, these hearing aids are similar to BTE versions. However, the receiver fits in the ear canal, and a tiny wire connects the two parts. These devices aren’t as visible as BTE models and feature directional microphones. The user can manually control them, and some devices have rechargeable batteries. As with other devices, earwax may be an issue if the aids aren’t cleaned routinely.
Regardless of which style is selected, the user must maintain the hearing aids following the manufacturer’s instructions. Furthermore, they must be worn regularly so the user can adjust to them and determine the optimal settings for the devices. However, people who are willing to put in the time and effort will find they can hear clearly again and will be able to participate in life fully. No price can be put on that.
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