When choosing the brand and model of hearing aids, you should consider your needs, budget, and additional characteristics you need. This task may look complicated, but our guide will help you make the right decision.

When purchasing hearing aids, it is important to consider the available options and determine your needs carefully. Hearing aid specialists can provide you with valuable information to help you make a decision. However, if you prepare for the consultation in advance, it will make the selection process easier for everyone, including you.

Suppose you do not know where to start. In that case, you can use the basic recommendations from this guide as a basis or contact a hearing aid store where you can conduct a diagnostic hearing assessment they will help you further search for information about possible hearing aid options.

Different models of hearing aids

• Some of them are in-ear hearing aids, while others are placed behind the ear lobe. Different types of hearing disorders require different models of hearing aids, so not all existing options may be suitable for you personally. However, if you have information about each of them, it will help you make the right decision when choosing a device in a hearing aid shop.
• The behind-the-ear hearing aid is the least compact and most common type of hearing aid. Such a device is placed behind the ear, and the connecting tube passes through the upper part of the auricle. Advantages: easy to set up, numerous functions, and the possibility of using it for severe hearing disorders. Disadvantages: bulky, can cause a feeling of the stuffiness of the ear.
• Intra-ear hearing aid. Such devices are placed in the auricle and partially block the entrance to the external auditory canal. They are more compact than behind-the-ear hearing aids, although to some extent more noticeable. Advantages: easy to install and relatively flexible settings. Disadvantages: visually evident and less potent than most models of behind-the-ear hearing aids.

Additional features

Depending on the hearing aid you choose, you can also choose its color, functions, and other individually customizable features. Information about some of the components is provided below. As mentioned, not all of these features are compatible with any hearing aid.

• Noise reduction. This technology does not always work flawlessly, but in general, it provides background noise suppression, which allows you to perceive speech better.
• Directional microphones. Amplify the sounds that come from in front of you relative to the sounds that come from behind you, which improves spatial perception.
• Rechargeable batteries. Hearing aids with a rechargeable battery do not require the replacement of the battery. Just put them in the charger at the end of the day.
• Induction coil. Induction coils are sensors that read magnetic signals. If the signal is compatible with your hearing aid, you will be able to connect to induction loops in conference rooms, concert halls, and other venues.
• Control of ambient noise. Many hearing aids have preset modes suitable for ambient conditions, such as quiet or noisy environments.
• Connectivity options. It usually involves a wireless connection to smartphones or televisions via Bluetooth or other technologies. Connectivity can also refer to the wireless connection between two hearing aids.
• Remote control. Allows you to adjust settings such as volume without removing the hearing aids.
• Direct audio input. Allows you to directly connect to another audio source, such as a smartphone or TV.
• Customizable programming. Data recording and memory enable you to program your hearing aids according to your preferences and environment.
• It involves the use of hearing aids in conjunction with applications and accessories.

How to find a specialist in hearing replacement?

A hearing aid specialist can offer you more than just a consultation. They can tell you about hearing aids, demonstrate how specific models work, and even help you set priorities. If you are interested in a particular hearing aid, the specialist will offer you a visual presentation or the possibility of trial use. If you have already selected a hearing aid or are ready for trial use, a specialist will help you with the hearing aid setup.

If you want to find the hearing aid specialist closest to you, you need to search among trustworthy hearing aid stores such as Staten Island Audiology.