After deciding to wear a hearing amplification device to manage hearing impairments, the next

step is choosing a specific type of hearing device.

Types of Hearing Devices

There are different types of hearing amplification devices that people can use to manage their

hearing disability. The device that can work well on a particular person depends on their

individual hearing, communication, and lifestyle needs. It can also depend on the reason and

severity of the condition. Hearing practitioners will take these factors into account when

discussing the most suitable kind of hearing devices for their patients.

There is a wide range of high-quality hearing devices available to manage different hearing

needs. These devices can include hearing aids and alternative listening devices.

Hearing aids from Hear4Less and other providers come in a number of sizes, shapes and

styles, including:

- Behind-the-Ear (BTE) Hearing Aids

Worn behind the ear and attached to a mold that sits inside the ear, these devices are

discreet, and are easy to clean and maintain.

- High Powered Behind-the-Ear Hearing Aids

These BTE hearing aids are more powerful and often larger in size than other hearing

devices. These are suitable for people with severe to profound hearing loss.

- Open Ear Hearing Aids

These BTE hearing aids have an earpiece, specially designed with a thin tubing that

directs sound into the ear. Now a standard fitting, these are suitable for people who have

trouble wearing standard ear molds.

- Custom In-the-Ear and In-the-Canal Hearing Aids

With no over the ear parts, these devices fit into the ear canal at different depths. These

are not suitable for all levels of hearing loss, as they can be difficult to manage due to

their size.

Hearing Devices: Facts About the Different Types of Hearing

Aids

- Completely-in-the-Canal (CIC) Hearing Aids

These devices are small in size, and fit into the ear canal deeply. Some of these hearing

devices have automatic features or remote controls that allow people to adjust the

settings easily.

Due to their size, most of these devices do not have the range of features or power

available with other hearing aids. These are also not suitable for all levels of hearing

loss, and for people with narrow or “bendy” ear canals.

Choosing the correct type of hearing device is important in managing hearing loss. Interested

parties may speak with hearing practitioners or read related brochures to learn more about

them.

Sources:

http://www.fda.gov/MedicalDevices/ProductsandMedicalProcedures/HomeHealthandConsumer/

ConsumerProducts/HearingAids/ucm181470.htm

http://www.asha.org/public/hearing/Different-Styles-of-Hearing-Aids/

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/hearing-aids/HQ00812

http://hear4less.com/home/hearing-aids/