Hearing Aids

What are hearing aids?

Hearing aids are instruments that amplify sound for people who cannot hear well. They have a microphone to pick up sound, an amplifier to increase the sound, an ear piece to transmit the sound to the ear, and a battery for power. These separate parts are most often packaged together in small in-the-ear hearing aids. People have difficulty with different areas of hearing and require different levels of sound amplification.

Selecting a hearing aid

There are different styles of hearing aids. Be careful to select a hearing aid that meets your specific needs.

A body aid has an earpiece connected by a wire to a small case containing a microphone and amplifier. The case is worn on the body. Body aids are the most powerful type of hearing aid.
A behind-the-ear hearing aid has an earpiece that connects to a short tube, microphone, and amplifier.
An in-the-ear hearing aid uses an earpiece that contains a microphone and amplifier and sits inside the user's ear. About 80% of hearing aid users wear this style.
An in-the-canal hearing aid is similar to an in-the-ear hearing aid, but is smaller and sits deeper in the ear.
A completely-in-the-canal hearing aid is smaller still, out of sight, and deep inside the ear canal.
Eyeglass hearing aids have the hearing aid in the eyeglass frames.

Be sure to look at different hearing aids before you make your choice. Don't forget the importance of warranty, maintenance, and repairs. If possible, take advantage of a free trial period to be sure the aid you choose is right for you. The most expensive hearing aid may not be your best choice.

Getting used to your hearing aid

Once you have found the hearing aid that meets your needs, you will soon get used to wearing it and learn to adjust the controls to pick up sound in different situations. Today's hearing aids are able to screen out a lot of background noise. They are small, easy to wear, and can make a great difference in your life.

How can I help my hearing aid to help me?

Even with a hearing aid, there are several strategies you will find helpful to make communication easier. Don't be shy. Tell people you have a hearing problem and politely ask them to face you and speak clearly so that you can hear better. Watch lips and watch body signs. If you don't catch what was said, ask the person to repeat it, or ask, "Did you say ....?"

In groups or in an audience, try to position yourself where you can see the speaker. Don't be afraid to ask a speaker to speak up or use a microphone. If you are in a crowd and can't hear someone speak because of background noise, suggest you both move to the edge of the crowd where the competing noise is less.

What other hearing assistance devices might I use?

Amplified telephone receivers and amplified headsets for listening to music or watching television can be very helpful. You can also install a flashing light system in your home instead of a ringing telephone or doorbell. Many churches and auditoriums have special headphones installed for people with hearing problems. Take advantage of them.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

HIA File GEN4414F.HTM Release 9.0/2006