Hearing aid technology describes the internal capabilities of the devices. Not only is the technology the most important factor in the performance of the devices, but it is also one of the main factors that determine the cost of hearing aids.
Selecting the optimal hearing aids for your needs can ensure you get the devices that fit your hearing challenges and budget.
Your Edmonton audiologist will match your specific hearing loss challenges with the technology that will make the biggest difference in your daily life.
Considering how small modern hearing aids are, they pack an incredible range of technology and features. Since the performance and cost of hearing aids are largely influenced by the internal technology, we often differentiate hearing aid technology and features.
Let's break down hearing aid features and technology options.
Hearing aid features contribute to the useability and comfort of the devices. Many of these features are standard in all hearing aids, while some are optional. Most features are available, no matter the level of technology of the devices.
Bluetooth connectivity: Do you struggle to hear your television or smartphone in a noisy environment? Many modern hearing aids are equipped with Bluetooth technology that connects you directly to these devices.
Telecoil technology: Similar to Bluetooth connectivity, telecoil technology connects your hearing aids to sound systems in theatres, concert halls, places of worship and other public venues. Telecoils are often available in banks or government facilities to help you hear the staff.
Rechargeable batteries: Like smartphones and tablets, modern hearing aids are available with rechargeable batteries that can be charged while you're not wearing the devices.
Remote adjustments: Some hearing aids can be adjusted remotely by your audiologist, letting you skip a trip to the audiology clinic or get the devices fine-tuned from anywhere.
Smartphone apps and remote controls: Most modern hearing aids can be adjusted on-the-go to various hearing profiles or environments. Using a remote control or smartphone app, you can adjust your devices without touching them.
Tinnitus support: Depending on the severity of the tinnitus, some devices can produce sounds that mask unwanted ringing to help ease symptoms.
Hearing aid technology refers to the processing ability of the microcomputer found in your device. Along with the processing power, hearing aid technology also includes advanced programs that process and output sounds.
Adapt to more environments: Many modern hearing aids can block out unwanted sounds (like background noise in a loud restaurant) and boost desired sounds (like someone's speaking voice).
More fitting bands: The more fitting bands a hearing aid has, the more the volume of specific frequencies can be fine-tuned. The device can then be customized according to the pitches you struggle with.
Manage unwanted sounds: Microphone feedback and wind noises are annoying at best and uncomfortable at their worst. Many devices can automatically reduce feedback and prevent sudden sounds or wind from getting too loud.
Spatial sounds: Advanced hearing aids can communicate with each other, providing the wearer with a better sense of where a sound is coming from. This helps to navigate the world safely and confidently.
Dynamic audibility: Hearing aids with dynamic audio will adjust sounds to be as natural as possible and minimize tinny or robotic sounds.
The biggest influence on the price of a hearing aid is its technology level. Hearing aid technology ranges from basic to advanced.
Advanced hearing aid technology: Advanced hearing aid technology offers more precision, control and natural sound than other hearing aids. The more advanced a hearing aid is, the more technological capabilities and customization it offers.
Intermediate hearing aid technology: Intermediate hearing aid technology involves a combination of advanced and basic features in the same device. For example, an intermediate hearing aid may have advanced feedback suppression and noise reduction, but it may not include as many fitting bands.
Basic hearing aid technology: Basic hearing aid technology is often available in more affordable devices. They have fewer technological capabilities and less processing power than intermediate and advanced hearing aids. However, they are still suitable for many types of hearing loss. And many hearing aids with basic technology are available with features like rechargeable batteries and Bluetooth connectivity.
Hearing aids of all technology levels are available with popular features, so the main factor in determining what's right for you is the technology level. Getting a hearing test is the best way to determine which level of technology is best for you. (Here's what to expect from a hearing test.)
For some hearing challenges, advanced capabilities won't make a noticeable difference. For other challenges, extensive customization and the best processing power are essential for the hearing aids to be effective. Getting matched to the right hearing aids is one of the top success factors in hearing care.
Book a hearing test with Professional Audiology today so that an audiologist can determine the type of hearing loss you are experiencing and how it impacts your daily life.
We'll use this information to recommend the hearing aid technology that is best for you.
Visit Professional Audiology Clinic at our central Edmonton or Sherwood Park locations!
Edmonton - Hys Centre
11010-101 Street NW, Unit #107
Sherwood Park – Emerald Hills Office Tower
8005 Emerald Drive, Unit #827 (second floor)
Evening appointments available.