Hearing aids are used to provide a solution for people who suffer from hearing loss. If you find it difficult to hear, a hearing care professional may encourage you to think about using hearing aids. Hearing aids make it easier to hear by amplifying sounds. There are several different types of hearing aids and some options are better suited to certain individuals than others. If you’re exploring your options, here are some tips to help you decide which hearing aid is right for you.

The different types of hearing aid

There are various types of hearing aid on offer. If you’ve been advised to consider wearing hearing aids by a hearing specialist, it’s wise to take a look at the different models and weigh up the pros and cons. The most common types of hearing aid include:

  • Behind the ear (BTE)
  • In the ear (ITE)
  • Invisible in canal (IIC)
  • Completely in canal (CIC)
  • Receiver in canal (RIC)

How to decide which hearing aid is right for you

With so much choice available, how do you decide which option is best for you? The first step to take is to discuss the different types of hearing aids with a hearing health professional. They will be able to use their knowledge and their experience to make recommendations based on the findings of your hearing assessment and also your personal preferences. Some people don’t want a highly visible hearing aid, for example, and in this case, it may be best to consider ITE, IIC and CIC hearing aids.

Another factor to consider when choosing hearing aids is the degree of hearing loss. Some hearing aids are more powerful than others, like the BTE. Your hearing specialist will also talk to you about the kinds of scenarios you find most difficult, the types of environments you encounter on a regular basis and the activities you enjoy. Using this information, they can recommend a hearing aid that both caters to your needs and fits in with your lifestyle. Some people will spend hours on end in a busy office while others will be used to much quieter surroundings.

Cost may also play a part for some people and it’s a good idea to compare prices before you make a decision. It’s best to adopt a tailored approach to your search to ensure you find the best option for you.

There’s a range of hearing aids on offer for people who experience hearing loss. Although it’s always beneficial to have a choice in life, sometimes, it can be difficult to narrow down the options. If you’re unsure which type of hearing aid to go for, explore your options and talk to your hearing care provider about the advantages and disadvantages of each style. Have a look at the different devices, think about your lifestyle and your daily routine and compare prices. Once you’ve decided which type of hearing aid to go for, your hearing care provider will give you some tips to help you get used to living with your hearing aids and you can start reaping the rewards.