About Hearing Devices

Hearing loss is a common condition that affects the elderly, affecting a person's ability to communicate, have healthy relationships and keep friendships. Hearing devices prevent hearing loss symptoms by amplifying the sound that enters the ear canal. They fit snugly inside of the ear opening and provide continual hearing support.

Types

• There are several types of hearing devices, including in-the-ear (ITE), completely-in-canal (CIC) and in-the-canal (ITC).

  ITE fits in the hollow of the ear, whereas CIC and ITC devices fit in the canal of the ear.

Features

• According to the American Speech Language Association, features in hearing devices include a directional microphone and a telephone switch. Both devices allow the person to control what is picked up by the hearing device.

Benefits

• Hearing devices are a temporary, painless solution to hearing loss. They amplify voices and background noise.

Size

• CIC hearing devices are smaller than a nickel, almost invisible to the naked eye. ITE hearing devices are several centimeters long, fitting in the hollow of the ear.

Misconceptions

• According to BetterHearing.org, many people assume they can choose their own hearing device. Only audiologists can choose the right hearing device for you.