Hearing technology is leaps and bounds beyond what it was even a generation ago. Today’s hearing aids are mini-supercomputers. But don’t let that scare you — they’re simple to use, comfortable to wear, and even the behind-the-ear models are so discreet, they’re almost invisible.
What can you expect from these little wonders?
An Array of Choices
Every taste and style will find something to love in today’s hearing aids. There’s almost certainly a hearing aid color you’ll love, though certain manufacturers do offer a broader selection than others.
There are also many shapes and sizes, from behind-the-ear to receiver-in-canal to invisible. Smaller styles are often custom-molded to your ear canal’s shape. The larger styles, on the other hand, typically offer more power for higher degrees of hearing loss.
Noise Reduction
This feature looks at the sound input, determines what is simply noise, and reduces it in the final sound mix. For example, during pickup basketball, you can be receptive to teammates’ voices and not be distracted by environmental noise. Some models offer a wind-reduction feature for outdoors enthusiasts.
Feedback Management
A common problem in most hearing aids is that the microphone and amplifier are too close together. And that means feedback — yes, just like the squeals from an electric guitar. But in this case, the amplifier is right in your ear canal! This feature cancels out any feedback before you hear it.
Directional Microphones
This feature focuses on sounds in front of you to help keep background noise, well, in the background! For example, you can focus on cousin Cathy’s voice and tune out the other talk at the dinner table.
Artificial Intelligence
Many hearing aids learn your preferred settings and adjust automatically based on your environment. For example, your hearing aid can learn how you adjust your settings when home alone with your spouse. It recognizes their voice and certain environmental cues, then adjusts your programming automatically.
Bluetooth Compatibility
Today’s hearing aids can connect wirelessly to mobile devices or any other Bluetooth electronics. For example, you can watch your favorite movie on your tablet and stream the audio right to your hearing aids — no earbuds or headphones needed!
Telehealth
It’s now almost standard practice for hearing aids to be paired with a mobile app so you can control your settings, volume, and more discreetly with a smartphone or tablet. But now, many hearing aid mobile apps let you request setting adjustments from your provider — no appointment necessary. And some even let you meet with your provider over video.
Rechargeability
It’s practically standard now for leading manufacturers to offer at least one rechargeable option. You simply put your hearing aids in the charger each night, and enjoy all-day hearing power the next morning. No more messing around with tiny batteries every few days!