Types of Hearing Aids
There are many styles of hearing aids to suit different levels of hearing loss, comfort preferences, and lifestyles. The two most popular are “in the ear” and “behind the ear” hearing aids – read along to see which one might be right for you.
In-the-Ear Hearing Aids – Comfortable and Discrete Solutions
What are they?
Inner ear hearing aids designed for comfort, these devices are custom-made to fit your unique ear shape and specific hearing needs. They sit comfortably within the ear canal and use the natural shape of your outer ear to enhance sound. All components — the microphone, amplifier, receiver, and battery — are contained inside the ear, making them a very discreet option.
Do they suit my hearing loss?
Best in-ear hearing aids for seniors are typically suited to those with moderate hearing loss across all frequencies. However, if you have high frequency hearing loss with good low-frequency hearing, this style may produce an echo-like sound. In such cases, a behind-the-ear style may offer a better listening experience (see below).
Advantages:
- Very discrete
- Don’t interfere with glasses or hair behind the ear
- Easy to handle
- Best type for people with a moderate hearing loss across all frequencies
Disadvantages:
- Don’t suit all types of hearing loss
- If something goes wrong, they need to be sent away for repair – your audiologist can’t usually fix them in house
Think this might be the right style for you?
Behind-the-ear hearing aids:
What are they?
Receiver-in-canal hearing aids for seniors are a popular style of hearing aid where a small device sits comfortably behind the ear, housing the battery, microphone, and amplifier. A nearly invisible thin wire connects to a tiny receiver that sits discreetly inside the ear canal. This design makes them one of the best hearing aids for high frequency hearing loss, offering both cosmetic appeal and excellent sound quality. The behind-the-ear component is sleek and can be matched to your hair colour or personal style for an even more subtle appearance.
Do they suit my hearing loss?
The best thing about behind the ear hearing aids is that they suit people with all different types of hearing loss. In particular, for people with a high frequency hearing loss and normal low frequency hearing, this is the only type of aid to use. Behind the ear hearing aids are also recommended as the best option for profound hearing loss, as they have the capacity for big batteries and super-powered devices. However, this type of hearing aid is very versatile and suits any hearing loss.
Advantages:
- Suit all types of hearing loss
- Only type for low frequency hearing loss with normal low frequency hearing
- Best option for profound hearing loss
- They can be very cosmetically appealing
- Can change the colour to suit hair or preference
- Easily repaired in house by your audiologist
Disadvantages:
- Can be tricky for people with cognitive issues (e.g. dementia) or dexterity problems (e.g. arthritis)
Hear What Matters Most
Imagine hearing your grandchildren laugh, enjoying your favourite music, or having a clear conversation with a loved one. With the right hearing aid, you can reconnect with life’s best moments.
Explore Hearing Aid Features:
Wondering what features modern hearing aids offer? The National Acoustic Laboratory has published a helpful guide that explains all the tech options available. View it below to learn more about features like Bluetooth, rechargeability, and noise filtering.
NAL hearing aid features guide
Not sure which type of hearing aid is right for you? Our friendly audiologists are here to help you choose the best option for your hearing loss and budget. Book a free hearing consultation today — no referral needed.
Still have questions? Speak with an Audiologist today.
If you are interested in any other types of hearing aids, feel free to discus this with your audiologist. Make sure you get the best type of aid for your hearing loss and budget.