Beverly Hills Hearing Center was founded in 1983 by Bonnie Baehr. Prior to that, Dr. Baehr practiced at the House Ear Clinic in Los Angeles as a staff audiologist for seven years. She was involved with diagnostic testing, hearing aid evaluations, research and rehabilitation. Dr. Baehr did her clinical fellowship training at the Veterans Administration Outpatient Clinic in downtown Los Angeles. She is a member of the American Academy of Audiology, American Speech Language and Hearing Association, California Academy of Audiology and Academy of Doctors of Audiology.
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Hearing loss is a common yet often overlooked health issue that can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. Fortunately, technological advancements in the field of audiology have led to the development of various hearing aid options, each designed to address different types and degrees of hearing loss.
Choosing the right hearing aid is an important decision that can help you communicate easily, stay engaged in social activities, and enjoy a better overall quality of life.
Types of Hearing Aids
There are several types of hearing aids, each designed to accommodate different levels of hearing loss and personal preferences. The main types of hearing aids include:
Behind-the-Ear (BTE) Hearing Aids
BTE hearing aids are housed in a small plastic case that rests behind the ear, while a clear plastic acoustic tube directs sound into the ear canal. These are suitable for individuals with mild to profound hearing loss and offer various features such as telecoil, directional microphones, and wireless connectivity.
In-the-Ear (ITE) Hearing Aids
ITE hearing aids are custom-made to fit the shape of the ear. They are less visible compared to BTE models and can be suitable for mild to severe hearing loss. ITE hearing aids include features such as volume control, directional microphones, and telecoil.
In-the-Canal (ITC) and Completely-in-the-Canal (CIC) Hearing Aids
ITC and CIC hearing aids are custom-molded and fit partly (ITC) or entirely (CIC) inside the ear canal, making them hard to spot. These are suitable for mild to moderate hearing loss and offer improved cosmetic appeal while providing features such as smaller batteries and discreet placement.
Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) and Receiver-in-the-Ear (RITE) Hearing Aids
RIC and RITE hearing aids house the receiver inside the ear canal, connected to the main body of the hearing aid behind the ear. These models are suitable for various degrees of hearing loss and offer features such as small size, natural sound quality, and wireless connectivity.
Invisible-in-Canal (IIC) Hearing Aids
IIC hearing aids are the smallest and most discreet type, fitting deep inside the ear canal and offering cosmetic advantages. These are suitable for mild to moderate hearing loss and offer natural sound quality with minimal visibility.
Essential Features to Consider
When choosing the right hearing aid, it’s important to consider the various features and technologies that can enhance the user experience and accommodate specific hearing needs. Some essential features to look for include:
- Directional Microphones: Directional microphones help focus on the sounds coming from a specific direction, improving speech understanding in noisy environments. This feature is beneficial for individuals who frequently engage in social activities and conversations in challenging listening environments.
- Telecoil (T-Coil) Compatibility: Telecoil technology allows the user to connect with loop systems commonly found in public venues, providing better sound quality and reducing background noise.
- Wireless Connectivity: Many modern hearing aids come with wireless connectivity capabilities, allowing seamless integration with smartphones, televisions, and other audio devices.
- Feedback Suppression: Feedback suppression technology helps minimize or eliminate whistling or squealing sounds that can occur with certain hearing aid models, enhancing comfort and clarity of sound.
- Environmental Settings: Some hearing aids offer environmental settings that automatically adjust to different listening situations, such as quiet conversations, noisy gatherings, or outdoor environments. This feature provides a more personalized and versatile listening experience.
- Rechargeable Batteries: Rechargeable hearing aids eliminate the need for frequent battery replacements and offer the convenience of simply placing the device in a charging dock at the end of the day. This feature is particularly appealing for those who prefer a low-maintenance option.
- Remote Control and Smartphone Apps: Remote controls and smartphone apps allow users to adjust settings, volume, and other features of their hearing aids, providing greater control and customization.
Lifestyle and Personal Preferences
In addition to the technical features of hearing aids, consider individual lifestyle and personal preferences. Factors such as social activities, work environments, hobbies, and cosmetic concerns can all influence the choice of a suitable hearing aid.
For example, individuals who are actively involved in outdoor activities or sports may prioritize moisture and dust resistance in their hearing aids, while those with aesthetic concerns may opt for discreet and nearly invisible models.
Seek Professional Guidance
Finally, it’s important to seek professional guidance from a hearing health professional when choosing a hearing aid. We will evaluate and address your individual hearing needs and can provide personalized recommendations.
Schedule your next appointment to find out more about your hearing aid options and get professional support.