What Are Hearing Aids?

Hearing devices in the twenty first century are completely different than what existed 40 years ago. Most hearing aids are computerized and commonly referred to as digital processors. All hearing aids are powered by a disposable battery. Digital processors have a computer chip that is located inside the hearing device and processes sound according to a person's hearing loss. The hearing aid is programmed by the audiologist, so the person using the hearing aid does not need to know how to work a computer. Since the type and severity of hearing loss varies from person to person, there is a variety of styles and technology that are customized to the individual. Digital processors can be very basic or sophisticated, or can be someplace in the middle, depending on the person's needs and lifestyle. Generally the more sophisticated the hearing aid is, the more costly the unit will be. Most insurance companies do not cover the cost of hearing aids. When shopping for hearing aids, make sure you compare equal technology to equal price.

Selecting a Hearing Aid

Hearing Aid Options:

Over-the-Ear
	An over-the-ear hearing aid has a very small tube, roughly the size of thick fishing line, that connects to either a full-size or micro-hearing device that fits behind the ear.

Behind-the-Ear
	A behind-the-ear hearing aid fits its components inside a casing that sits behind the ear and is attached to an earpiece connected to a short tube and custom-fit mold.

In-the-Ear
	An in-the-ear hearing aid is a custom-made earpiece that fills up the bowl of the ear.

In-the-Canal
	An in-the-canal hearing aid is similar to an in-the-ear hearing aid, but is smaller and is recessed deeper in the ear.

Completely in the Canal
	A completely in the canal hearing aid is smaller still, out of sight, and sits deep inside the ear canal.

Not all hearing devices perform in the same manner. A hearing aid may look the same, but the internal circuits process sounds differently for the listener. Don't forget the importance of warranty, maintenance, and repairs. Hearing aids are purchased with a trial period, which means that if the units do not meet your expectations you can return them and receive most of your money back, paying only the trial fee. Make sure you review the cost of the trial fee before purchasing. The most expensive hearing aid may not be the best for you.  

What Can I Do While Waiting for My Hearing Aids?

In groups or in an audience, try to position yourself where you can see the speaker's face. Everybody uses facial cues and lip movements, but people with hearing loss need to use their vision more often. If you are in a crowd, seat yourself with your back away from the noise so that you can use your vision to fill in what your ears cannot hear. Don't be afraid to ask a speaker to rephrase what they said, and don't let your hearing interfere with your life.

What Other Hearing Assistance Devices Can I Use?

Amplified telephone receivers and amplified headsets for listening to music or watching television can also be very helpful. Flashing light systems for the home can be installed as door, telephone, or infant alerting systems. Many public places have special devices for hearing impaired people that can be used either with or without hearing devices. Ask your local theatre or place of worship if they have special systems for people with difficulty hearing — you may be pleasantly surprised. There are also devices that will communicate with your digital processor hearing aids so that you can listen to music, speak over the telephone, or watch television directly through your hearing devices.