Browsing this page is no coincidence. Chances are, you may be exploring the idea of getting a hearing aid or looking for practical tips and info on how to choose the hearing aid that would work best for you.
As audiologists, we know how overwhelming to navigate the different types of hearing aids on the market, especially if you’re new to the world of hearing loss.
But don’t worry, you’re not alone. In this post, we’ll break down the common types of hearing aids and help you determine which one will work best for you and your lifestyle.
Understanding the different types of hearing aids
Hearing aids are manufactured in various styles, each with its own distinct set of features and benefits. The most common types of hearing aids available include:
- Behind-the-ear (BTE): This type of hearing aid sits outside the ear and comes with a small tube that connects to a custom earmold that is designed to fit inside the ear.
- Receiver-in-the-ear (RIE): An RIE is worn behind the ear and is housed in a compact, lightweight casing. The speaker/receiver sits inside the ear canal.
- Completely-in-the-canal (CIC): As its name implies, a CIC hearing aid is designed to be discreet as it fits entirely inside the ear canal. It is suitable for mild to moderate hearing loss. It is a discreet yet reliable hearing aid option.
- In-the-ear (ITE): An ITE hearing aid is designed to directly fit in the ear and is custom-made to match the shape of the ear.
- In-the-canal (ITC): Partially fitting in the ear canal and can also be custom-made.
Keep in mind that each type of hearing aid has its own pros and cons. The type that would work best for you will greatly depend on your specific hearing loss, lifestyle, budget, and personal preferences.
Practical tips on choosing the right hearing aid
Choosing the right hearing aid can be a complex and personal decision, but these practical tips can help you find the best option for your needs:
- Get a professional consultation. The moment you realize that something might be wrong with your hearing, seeing an audiologist is the next best step to take. An audiologist can carry out a hearing test to confirm hearing loss or diagnose some other hearing issue that needs to be addressed.
- Get a hearing test: A professional hearing test will help determine the type and severity of your hearing loss, which is crucial in selecting the right hearing aid.
- Budget: There’s no way around it, (quality) hearing aids are an investment. For some, buying hearing aids from reputable manufacturers may be costly, but if you look at their quality, benefits, features, and longevity, the price is actually worth it.
- Lifestyle check: Take into account your daily activities, specifically how you’ll be using your hearing aid. Will you be using it in a quiet or noisy environment? Do you have an active lifestyle? What are your hobbies? When you decide to get a hearing aid, you need to factor in your hearing aid into your daily routine. Make sure it fits your lifestyle so you will have an easier time adjusting to your hearing instrument.
- Do your research: There are various hearing aid manufacturers offering hearing aids from basic to top-caliber levels. Each has its own features and benefits. It’s best to be familiar with your options and compare prices and features as you go along. Remember, an informed decision is most likely to be a good decision.
Working with an audiologist you trust
The journey to better hearing takes team effort. Finding an audiologist that you can trust and are comfortable with plays a key role in achieving hearing aid success. At the end of the day, choosing a hearing aid is a personal decision, and it’s normal if it may take some time for you to find “the one”.
Take your time and don’t be hesitant to ask for help from the experts.
Audiologist and Hearing Aids in Santa Clarita, CA
Santa Clarita Hearing Center has audiologists who can help you choose the best hearing aids in Santa Clarita, CA.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
