What are the best hearing aids? The first thing you need to know is that there are different types of hearing aids, each accomodating a particular kind of hearing loss. Consult your licensed Audiologist to find out exactly what your hearing loss is attributable to and will be best addressed.
Knowing this, we can break hearing aids down into two main categories: analog and digital. Analog is on the way out, technology-wise, in favor of digital. In plain terms, digital hearing aids can be adjusted precisely to fit your hearing needs.
Be sure to affirm that there is a trial period so you'll be able to judge whether the hearing aids are right for you long term. Don't waste your time or money on companies that don't offer a trial. If they aren't interested in dealing with you in 30 days, what is the likelihood that they will be helpful in a year?
Also be sure to obtain information on the warranty period and what it will cover.
There are hearing aids that can be implanted surgically, but these are for more serious degrees of hearing loss- if your doctor thinks these are the best hearing aids for you, she/ he will let you know.
More likely, one of the following 4 types of digital hearing aids will meet your needs.
1. Fitting over your ear much like sunglasses, the Behind the ear, or BTE, type of hearing aid are basic and effective. It's easy to adjust these yourself, meaning one less trip to the doctor for you. Some have found, however, that use of the telephone is hindered by the device (particularly if you wear one in each ear). BTE hearing aids are quite visible, which may not be for those who are self conscious of their need for an assistive device.
2. ITE, or In the Ear, styles of hearing aids sit in the outer portion of your outer ear. Less obvious, but still easily detected, these do sometimes make people feel uncomfortable as the outer ear is filled with the device. The feel of having the outer ear plugged up can be bothersome for some people, while others simply get used to it.
3. Next is the In The Canal, or ITC, style of hearing aid, which is less noticeable than the previous two types.
4. Being small and fitting inside the ear canal, the CIC or Completely in the Canal style of hearing aid are the least conspicuous of all 4 types of digital hearing aids. There are some disadvantages to these, as they are quite small and easy to lose- a case is recommended along with frequent cleanings. These tiny devices are more susceptible to ear wax and moisture than the other types so there is more maintenance. Because of their dimunitive size, your Audiologist must adjust them via computer- also, battery life is less as the batteries themselves are physically smaller.
Mild/ moderate hearing loss will be serviced with one of these 4 types of digital hearing aids- be sure to inquire about the trial period and warranty. Any of the 4 types may be suggested to you by your Audiologist. Aside from cost, you'll want to consider whether or not you want a device that is easily seen and what you are most comfortable wearing. For instance, if you feel embarrassed about your hearing loss you may want to lean toward a model that is less visible such as the ITC or CIC varieties.
Again, more serious hearing loss may require a surgical implant, but you'll know this from speaking with your doctor.
Basically, this all boils down to what your Audiologist suggests, what you want to spend and what makes you happiest when deciding which are the best hearing aids for your needs.
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There's lots of other helpful advice on the best hearing aids at the discount hearing aids webpage
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