According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, less than a quarter of people who need hearing aids actually use them. Many people don’t realize that there are hearing aids that could help with their particular problem. Others don’t realize that hearing aids are a lot more sophisticated now than they were even a decade ago.
1. In-the-Canal (ITC) Aids
If your hearing loss is mild, an ITC aid can be great for you. Since these devices are tiny, most people won’t notice that you are using a hearing aid at all. ITC aids can’t pick up on very soft sounds, but even slight amplification may be enough to let you follow conversations. Completely-in-the-Canal (CIC) aids are available as well.
2. In-the-Ear (ITE) Aids
ITE aids are fairly large and visible, so people with mild hearing loss may prefer to go for more discreet types. But this type of aid can handle severe hearing loss, too. If you expect to use your ITE aid in a noisy environment, you should consider getting a model that has volume control as well as other customization options.
3. Behind-the-Ear (BTE) Aids
BTE aids are the most powerful type of hearing aid, so they are great for every kind of hearing loss. They are also very easy to clean. Additionally, they’re a good choice for children, because they are simple to use.
4. On-the-Ear Aids
Since the earpieces are fairly large, BTE aids sometimes cause a sensation of plugged ears. On-the-ear aids use the same technology, but they are smaller and more comfortable to wear. They are less visible, too. Some call them mini BTE aids.
5. CROS Aids
CROS (contralateral routing of signal) technology is a solution to one-sided hearing loss. In this case, you wear devices in both ears. A wireless signal transmits sound from the poorer hearing ear to the healthier ear.
Conclusion
People who have to deal with hearing loss can be at a disadvantage at work and in various social situations. Thus, experts recommend looking into hearing aids that could help. Although they don’t reverse hearing loss, hearing aids can make life easier for you.
