This post has been updated from the original 04/19/2013. Lots of hearing aid features added since then!
How do you find the right hearing aids?
I had a client who was ready to start the process of getting hearing aids. He’s planning to retire in June and wanted to use his current benefits to pay for the hearing aids. After completing a Hearing Evaluation and giving him my recommendations, he left to consider his options. A few days later, he walked into the office to show me a spreadsheet that he created. I love this type of person – someone who is an information-gatherer and an analyst of information.
What you should consider when comparing hearing aids
Hearing aid technology is continually advancing. When I first wrote this post, features that are standard today, such as Bluetooth® wireless connection, tinnitus relief, and rechargeable batteries weren’t even available. A recent example is the Mask Mode feature introduced after the pandemic required us to wear face masks.
Your Audiologist will recommend hearing aids that are best suited to you after a Hearing Evaluation based on your case history, test results, and personal preferences. If you want to do your own research, here’s what you should look for:
#1. Hearing Aid Style
There are 6 main hearing aid styles named for where the hearing aid is positioned in or on the ear. Each style is best suited for specific factors such as the degree of hearing loss, the size and shape of the inner and outer ear, ease of handling and personal preferences for technology, shape and colour. You may often see each hearing aid style called by its short form (e.g. BTE).
Completely-in-the-canal (CIC)
Invisible-in-the-canal (IIC)
In-the-canal (ITC)
In-the-ear (ITE)
Behind-the-ear (BTE)
Receiver-in-the-ear (RIC)
Read more about each hearing aid style here.
#2. What is the best hearing aid brand?
It really depends on what you need and what a manufacturer offers. Some brands focus on a particular range of hearing loss, while others offer rich features. Dr. Erin Wright talks about new hearing aid features for 2021 from the big brands in this video. Because we are independently owned (not owned by a manufacturer), we can choose hearing aids from all manufacturers.
#3. What colour are hearing aids?
When you wear hearing aids every day colour preference is important! Colour options range from blending with hair and skin tones to fun shades that make your hearing aids a fashion accessory.
#4. Hearing aid batteries
Cost, power, how well fingers and hands can manage small items, and environmental concerns may factor into battery choice. Disposable and rechargeable hearing aid batteries are now both options.
#5. Connectivity
New hearing aids can transmit sound from Bluetooth devices, such as cell phones, tablets, or audio players. Smart phone apps (short for “application”), such as the Livio Edge Thrive app, connect to your hearing aids and allow you to adjust the volume, switch programs, track your health, alert an emergency contact if you fall, and more.
#6. Warranty
Almost all hearing aids come with some type of warranty that covers loss and damage. Warranty duration may vary based on cost and technology level.
#7. Tinnitus relief
Some hearing aids offer tinnitus apps that help manage symptoms. An app can be part of a tinnitus therapy program.
#8. Accessories
Often hearing aids come with accessories such as:
- Remote microphones that help with group situations or in background noise
- TV connection that plays your TV audio into your hearing aids.
- Remote controls that allow you to adjust the volume.
Ask about which accessories come with the hearing aids and options for purchase.
#9. Aftercare program
Hearing aid aftercare ensures that your hearing aids work their best for you. Aftercare often covers cleaning, adjustments, and visits to the hearing clinic. Aftercare with our Audiologists includes the lifetime of the hearing aids.
#10. Professional qualifications
There are different levels of qualifications to work in hearing health. An Audiologist has an advanced degree in the detection, diagnosis and management of hearing and balance disorders. An Audiologist has a master’s degree in Audiology, while a Doctor of Audiology has a doctorate.
So, what happened to that client?
In the end, different clinics recommended different hearing aid makes and models and only one of them was a lower price than the price I had quoted. To be fair, the competing clinic quoted a more basic and less reliable product. After comparing all of his categories, he proudly walked back into the clinic and announced, “You won!” He told me that the tipping point for him was professionalism in our office and our qualifications and experience.
The place to start is a Hearing Evaluation. If you have questions about hearing aids you can speak to an Audiologist about the options for your hearing needs and lifestyle.
To schedule a Hearing Evaluation with an Audiologist, please call: Broadmead Hearing Clinic: 250-479-2969 or Oak Bay Hearing Clinic: 250-479-2921. Or request an appointment online.