Everything you ever wanted to know about Hearing Aids

Intro  

 

  • Hearing aids have transformed the lives of many by improving communication and enhancing the quality of life for those with hearing loss.  
  • With so many types, features, and advancements, it can be overwhelming to navigate the world of hearing aids and cochlear implants.  
  • Outlined are some frequently asked questions about hearing aids to demystify the medical devices that can help us hear to the fullest.  

 

What is a hearing aid? 

 

  • A hearing aid is a small electronic device designed to amplify sound for individuals with hearing loss. 
  • Hearing aids typically consist of a microphone, amplifier and speaker, which work together to capture sounds from the environment, process them, and deliver the amplified sound into the ear. 
  • Conversely, a cochlear implant is a medical device that provides a sense of sound to individuals with severe to profound hearing loss who do not benefit from traditional hearing aid. Unlike hearing aids, which amplify sound, a cochlear implant bypasses damaged parts of the ear and directly stimulates the auditory nerve. 

 

Are there different types of hearing aids? 

 

  • The design and technology used can differ from hearing aid to hearing aid, and there is no one-size-fits-all. Different devices may suit different people depending on their type and severity of hearing loss, their personal listening needs, and lifestyle factors. 
  • Behind-the-ear (BTE) and in-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids are the two most commonly used styles. The ITE hearing aids include the in-the-canal (ITC) hearing aid or the completely-in-the-canal (CIC) option. The CIC hearing aids are smaller and sit much deeper in the canal than the ITC version. 
  • Technology means that there have been significant advances in the effectiveness of different hearing devices in recent years. Many now feature automatic directional microphones, remote wireless microphones, Bluetooth technology and/or advanced sensors.  

 

Who can benefit from a hearing aid? 

 

  • Hearing aids can benefit individuals who experience hearing loss, particularly those with mild to moderate or even severe hearing impairment. 

  • People who struggle with understanding speech in noisy environments, have difficulty hearing conversations, or find it challenging to follow phone calls or TV programs may benefit from using hearing aids. 

 

How do users benefit from a hearing aid? 

 

  • On average, over 60% of all hearing aid owners think they should have gotten their hearing aids sooner. The main reason is missing out on social life. [1]
  • EuroTrak surveys show a strong correlation between regular usage of hearing aids and satisfaction: Users wearing hearing aids for more hours were more satisfied with their hearing aids than those who were using them for fewer hours per day. [2]
  • EuroTrak surveys show that 90% of hearing aid owners report improvements in overall quality of life, including improved sleep, reduced exhaustion, enhanced communication, social engagement, employment prospects, and decreased stigma associated with hearing loss. 

 

Who can fit a hearing aid?  

 

  • An audiologist will help you choose the most appropriate device for you, depending on your level of hearing loss and your lifestyle needs. They will help you select, fit and dispense hearing aids and also provide the appropriate follow-up and aftercare.  

 

How widespread are hearing aids?  

 

  • Using data from EuroTrak and other sources, the average uptake in European countries is estimated at 35% among those who self-report hearing loss.  
  • The usage of hearing aids among those living with hearing loss is growing every year, indicating that traditional barriers to seeking help (e.g. stigma linked to their usage, denial of their own problems, or the perceived aesthetic disadvantages of hearing aids) are gradually being broken down, and that being a user is becoming normalized. [3] 
  • Hearing aids are no longer clunky and conspicuous – advanced technology and design means they are now extremely sleek, discreet and comfortable without losing any of their effectiveness. 

 

Are hearing aids comfortable? 

 

  • Modern hearing aids are lightweight and come in various styles, such as behind-the-ear, in-the-ear, and completely-in-canal models, allowing for a more personalized fit. Most hearing aids come with different sizes of ear tips or molds to ensure they fit snugly and comfortably in the ear. 
  • It is important to ensure that the hearing aids are properly fitted by an audiologist, as an incorrect fit can lead to discomfort or irritation. Regular adjustments and maintenance can help improve comfort over time. If any discomfort persists, it’s advisable to consult with a hearing care professional to make the necessary adjustments.

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[1] EHIMA. EuroTrak 2021-2023 surveys. (link)

[2] EHIMA. EuroTrak 2021-2023 surveys. (link)

[3] Nickbakht, M., Ekberg, K., Waite, M., Scarinci, N., Timmer, B., Meyer, C., & Hickson, L. (2024). The experience of stigma related to hearing loss and hearing aids: perspectives of adults with hearing loss, their families, and hearing care professionals. International Journal of Audiology, 1-8. (link)

 

 

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