Hearing Technology
Hearing technology is the various devices and instruments that are used to assist individuals who have progressive hearing loss or impairment. They can range from hearing aids to other assistive listening devices.
Types of Hearing Technology Devices
The most common type of hearing technology is hearing aids, which are small electronic devices that amplify sounds and can be tuned to your specific needs. Thanks to modern technology, hearing aids are equipped with features like noise reduction, directional microphones, and Bluetooth. There are several kinds of hearing aids available, each with their own unique features and benefits:
- Receiver-in-canal (RIC)
- Behind the ear (BTE)
- In-the-ear (ITE)
- In-the-canal (ITC)
- Completely-in-the-canal (CIC)
Hearing Instrument Evaluation
Your audiologist will discuss your hearing loss and how it relates to your communication needs to address any difficulties you may be experiencing. Together, you and your audiologist will consider cosmetic concerns, ease of handling, performance expectations and price to choose hearing instruments that fit your lifestyle and budget.
Hearing Instrument Fitting
At this appointment, your audiologist will work closely with you, so you learn how to use and care for your hearing instrument(s). Your audiologist will assure that the instrument fits appropriately and will program it according to your specific hearing loss. Modern technology allows great flexibility and tuning options, allowing access to more sounds to enhance your listening experiences.
Your audiologist will advise you on follow-up maintenance appointments may be required. For other questions regarding your hearing technology devices, contact our office at 515.875.9450.