The size of a hearing aid can make a big difference in how natural the sound is. Smaller devices, such as the Signia Silk X, provide an invisible fit and a personalized listening experience. This type of hearing aid does not require an in-person adaptation with a hearing care professional. Instead, measurements are taken on the actual ear and programmed into the device.
A mini behind-the-ear hearing aid is even smaller and fits completely behind the ear. When selecting a hearing aid, it's important to consider the features and services that come with it. Many companies offer packages that include a new pair of hearing aids every 18 months, unlimited assistance, insurance coverage, loss protection, and accessories such as batteries, domes, and earwax protectors. It's also important to get a hearing test to measure the sensitivity or volume of sound and the clarity or how well someone can understand speech.
According to the Hearing Health Foundation (HHF), there are five levels of hearing loss ranging from mild to profound. When using a hearing aid for the first time, you may notice a difference right away. However, it may take a few months to fully adapt to using one. Sound quality is difficult to quantify but evaluation techniques and large-scale studies suggest that Oticon More has exceptionally high sound quality which may lead to more satisfied users.
Closed accessories were used to ensure that listeners evaluated the quality of sound produced by the hearing aids. It adjusts the sound based on your hearing loss, needs, and the level of sounds around you. When shopping for a hearing aid, it's important to do your research. Brands such as Audicus, Bose, Eargo, Jabra, Lexie, and Lively are worth considering as the over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aid market consolidates.
It's also wise to get a referral from your primary care doctor to an ear, nose and throat specialist or audiologist for guidance and recommendations. Hearing loss is surprisingly common affecting about 23% of Americans over 12 years old and almost half of those over 60 years old. Hearing aids are designed to amplify sound which can help improve hearing and make other people's speech easier to understand. With behind-the-ear devices two types of parts go in the ear: an open-fit dome or a closed-fit mold.
Talk to an audiologist to find out which hearing aid options are best for you and then make your selection based on affordability.
