Hearing Aids

Hearing aids are the most effective solution for managing hearing loss, except in cases requiring surgical intervention, such as certain conductive losses or profound losses addressed through cochlear implants. These advanced devices amplify sounds across different frequencies, ensuring you can hear comfortably and clearly. Modern hearing aids are discreet, stylish, and equipped with cutting-edge technology, blending seamlessly into everyday life. With features like Bluetooth connectivity for audio streaming and smartphone apps for personalised control, today’s hearing aids go beyond restoring hearing—they enhance your overall listening experience, offering convenience and comfort for users of all ages.

In The Ear Hearing Aids

Custom hearing aids are designed to fit specifically to the shape of your ear, as they are molded to sit comfortably within the ear canal or just outside it. These hearing aids aren’t suitable for all hearing losses and ear canal sizes, so it is crucial to consult with an audiologist, as fitting custom devices to an incompatible hearing loss can result in very unnatural sound, physical discomfort, and generally poor outcomes.

Advantages

Discrete appearance – The smaller styles of custom hearing aids (IIC & CIC) are certainly the most discrete styles of hearing aids
Enhanced comfort – As these hearing aids are custom-made to fit your unique ear canal shape, they can often be very comfortable to wear
Reduced wind noise – The microphones are placed in, or just at the opening of your ear canal which means they are largely shielded from wind noise which can be a consideration for those who spend a lot of time in the outdoors

Disadvantages

Less robust – They are more susceptible to earwax and moisture buildup, which can affect performance and may require more frequent cleaning, and repairs.
Less features – Custom hearing aids, particularly the smaller models, do not support certain features, like Bluetooth or telecoil, as well as other advanced features that help hearing aids perform optimally in noisy and challenging environments.
Not always suitable – Unlike Behind-the-ear hearing aids, custom hearing aids are only suited so certain types of hearing loss. People with small/narrow ear canals are also not candidates for these hearing aids.

Behind the Ear Hearing Aids

Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids are worn with a small casing that sits behind the ear, with a thin tube or wire that channels sound into an earmold or dome within the ear canal.

Advantages

Enhanced features – These models are typically able to support more advanced features, like Bluetooth connectivity, rechargeable batteries, telecoil functionality, and various other features that provide additional support in challenging and noisy environments
Durability – BTE hearing aids are generally more robust and can withstand earwax and moisture exposure better, making them easier to maintain
Flexibility – The speaker power can be easily changed to accommodate potentially large changes in your hearing loss
Versatile – BTE hearing aids are suitable for almost every type of hearing loss

Disadvantages

Visibility – Although still largely discrete, BTE aids aren’t as discrete as the smaller styles of custom hearing aids (i.e. IIC & CIC)
Wind noise – Due to their placement on the ear, BTE aids are more susceptible to wind noise caused by wind turbulence passing over the ear

Modern Hearing Aid Features

One Size Does NOT Fit All

Hearing aids have transformed into sleek, sophisticated devices designed to meet the unique needs of each user. With cutting-edge technology, these devices offer features that go far beyond simple amplification, providing advanced solutions for improved speech understanding, seamless connectivity, and user convenience. Let’s explore the modern hearing aid features that ensure one size does not fit all.

Bluetooth Connectivity

Bluetooth-enabled hearing aids provide seamless wireless integration with devices such as smartphones, tablets, and televisions. This feature allows users to stream music, phone calls, and other audio directly to their hearing aids, eliminating background noise and improving clarity. Bluetooth has evolved significantly since its introduction, now offering direct streaming without intermediary devices.

Key Benefits:

Hands-Free Communication: Enjoy clear phone calls and video chats with sound streamed directly to your hearing aids, freeing your hands for other tasks.
Enhanced Audio Quality: High-quality sound with reduced interference for better music, TV, and video streaming.
Multi-Device Pairing: Connect to multiple devices, such as a smartphone and TV, without needing to reconnect each time.
Personalised Control: Smartphone apps allow users to adjust volume, change programs, and fine-tune sound settings for a custom experience.

Rechargeable Batteries

Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries are a game-changer in hearing aid technology, offering reliable power and ease of use. These batteries are designed to last an entire day on a single charge, even when using power-intensive features like streaming. They also align with modern sustainability trends, reducing the environmental impact of disposable batteries.

Advantages:

Convenience: Place your hearing aids on a charger overnight and wake up to full-day power.
Ease of Use: Ideal for individuals with dexterity challenges, eliminating the need to handle small batteries.
Cost Savings: Say goodbye to ongoing disposable battery expenses.
Eco-Friendly: Contribute to sustainability by reducing battery waste.

Artificial Intelligence

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has revolutionised hearing aids, delivering an unparalleled ability to improve speech understanding in noisy environments. Using advanced deep neural networks (DNNs), these devices analyse thousands of real-world sound scenarios to recognize and prioritize speech over background noise. This transformative technology works in real time, ensuring seamless adaptation to changing environments without the need for manual adjustments.

For example, in a busy restaurant, AI-powered hearing aids amplify the voices of your companions while reducing distracting clatter or conversations from nearby tables. Similarly, in outdoor settings, they detect and suppress wind noise, maintaining speech clarity so you can enjoy conversations during walks or outdoor activities. Features like adaptive directional microphones focus on the person you’re speaking to, minimising surrounding noise for an enhanced listening experience.

Key Benefits of AI in Hearing Aids:

Improved Speech Clarity in Noise: Separates and amplifies speech, ensuring clear conversations in loud environments.
Real-Time Adaptation: Instantly adjusts to changing soundscapes for effortless listening.
Personalised Experience: AI learns your preferences, tailoring sound to match your unique needs.

Telehealth and Other Features

Modern hearing aids combine the convenience of remote care with advanced features to deliver a personalized and superior hearing experience. Remote care has revolutionized hearing aid management, allowing users to receive professional adjustments and support without visiting a clinic. Through telehealth platforms, audiologists can fine-tune settings and resolve issues, making hearing support more accessible and efficient than ever.

Benefits of Remote Care:

Convenience: Adjustments and troubleshooting can be done from home, saving time and effort.
Accessibility: Ideal for those in remote areas or with mobility challenges.
Quick Support: Issues are resolved faster without the need for in-office appointments.
Pandemic-Ready: Ensures continuity of care while maintaining social distancing protocols.

In addition to remote care, today’s hearing aids are packed with cutting-edge features designed to enhance everyday life:

Tinnitus Relief: Soothing programs help alleviate tinnitus discomfort for a more peaceful experience.
Health Sensors: Monitor physical activity, track health metrics, and detect falls, adding extra safety and wellness benefits.
Invisible Options: Discreet designs cater to users who prefer subtle, nearly invisible devices.
Extended Frequencies: Amplify sounds in the 6000-8000 Hz range to improve speech clarity and music quality.

By seamlessly integrating remote care with these advanced capabilities, modern hearing aids empower users with convenience, safety, and a highly customized hearing experience tailored to their unique needs.

At Holistic Hearing, we understand the importance of finding the right hearing solution. Our team of audiologists is here to guide you through each option and ensure you have the best hearing aid for your individual needs. Contact us to schedule a consultation and start your journey to better hearing today!

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Hearing aid brands we offer

Holistic Hearing Solutions is 100% independent and local, with an Audiologist-owner. We are not restricted by one brand. That means that you benefit from having a selection of brands.

Click on a brand to learn more