If you're in the market for a hearing aid, you may prefer a device that can't be easily seen by those around you. Invisible hearing aids are beneficial for various reasons, as they are more aesthetically pleasing to some, and they are situated closer to the ear drum, providing a more natural sound than their counterparts. Here are the most common types of invisible hearing aids and how they can benefit you.
Invisible-in-the-canal (IIC) hearing aids, as their name suggests, rest inside the ear canal, virtually out of sight. They are the smallest among the hearing aids, and because of their deep placement inside the ear, they work great at reducing the amount of wind noise and blocking out any surrounding ambient noise.
A variety of brands currently exist on the market, and it can be downright fun to do a comparison. One particular model can actually be controlled by an app on your smartphone or tablet, and it is conveniently compatible with both android and iOS systems. It boasts an additional feature targeted to those with tinnitus, playing certain sounds that help alleviate or prevent the symptoms altogether. Another model allows the wearer to implement easy push-button volume control.
Some brands claim that they are so comfortable you won't even know that you're wearing a hearing aid at all, and they only need to be changed every few months. They work exceptionally well because of their placement, and their position allows the outer ear to work the way it should, by directing sounds to the inner ear where the device amplifies the noise before it reaches the ear drum. And yes, you can adjust the volume as needed until you find a suitable level that works for you. Cost may be a factor here, but the convenience of not having to remove and replace a hearing aid every day may be priceless to some. And considering that about 2/3 of hearing aids go unused, likely due to the fact that they either don't work properly or users don't get them placed inside the ear correctly, this particular hearing aid will circumvent all of that.
Completely-in-the-canal (CIC) hearing aids are extremely small. They are usually molded to fit the individual for increased comfort, and they also have the ability to reduce wind and ambient noise. A particularly desirable feature of CIC hearing aids is that they come with either automatic or push-button settings.
Industry standards have shown that about 33% of hearing aid users prefer to maintain control over their hearing aids, including the ability to adjust the volume or manually toggle the unit to work in a noisy or quiet social setting. Sometimes this is done directly on the aid with the push of a button or via a remote control. For those who are ready for a hands-free device that will work in almost any setting, an automatic CIC hearing aid is a great choice.
Mini behind-the-ear hearing aids (Mini BTE) or receiver-in-the-canal (RIC) aids aren't really invisible per se, but they are much more difficult to see than the standard BTEs due to the thin tubing that's used. At the end of the tubing is a thin tip that catches amplified sounds, making it a suitable choice for those with mild to moderate high-frequency hearing loss.
They have increased in popularity over the years, and because of that, manufacturers have made tips large enough to occlude the ear canal, resulting in a device that can be used by those with a wider range of hearing loss.
The mini BTEs are very easy to place and are therefore well suited for those who have limited dexterity. They are also same-day ready, as a custom fit isn't necessary. So if you're in a rush, the mini BTE is a great choice.
For more information about hearing aid options, you can click here for additional reading, or you can contact a local hearing aid clinic.
