AUDIOLOGY

Q: How to Choose Between Hearing Aid Models A: It can be difficult for a new hearing aid patient to decide what model of hearing aid would work best for their needs. One consideration is obvious — what will help you hear the best given your specific type of hearing loss. But there are other factors that should be considered, so that once you have made a decision the devices chosen fit perfectly in your ears and with your lifestyle. These can include, but aren’t limited to, the following: • Preferred leisure activities • Workplace • Any dexterity, vision, or other physical limitations • Need/desire to stream audio from electronic devices • Tinnitus treatment requirements Here are a few considerations to help you make the best choice possible. Why you might want a BTE: Behind-the-ear hearing aid models suit people of all ages and can improve almost any type of hearing loss, from mild to profound. They’re easy to put on and remove. If you are an active person, consider a BTE option with a rating of IP67 or higher to keep perspiration, dust, and water from getting into the housing of your hearing aids and damaging the delicate inner workings. Most are large enough to accommodate advanced technology like tinnitus therapy features, wireless connectivity, directional microphones, and more. Why you might want a receiver in the canal: RICs usually offer all the advantages of BTEs, but are typically smaller. Many people find open fit RICs more comfortable than BTEs. They also offer greater discretion than BTEs, so if you’re someone who’d prefer others not notice you’re wearing hearing aids they may be a better choice. However, RICs are only suitable for certain kinds of hearing loss (usually mild to severe), while open fit BTEs can help those with profound hearing loss. Finally, some are rechargeable, so if you have dexterity or vision issues you won’t have to worry about changing tiny batteries weekly. Why you might want custom hearing aids: Whether you can wear a custom hearing aid and in what size mostly depends on your degree of hearing loss, comfort, and any additional requirements and preferences discussed with your hearing care professional. Most wearers who choose a custom hearing aid do so for the comfort a customized fitting offers, coupled with a desire for the utmost in discretion. Despite their smaller size, some offer the same benefits as far as tinnitus treatment, wireless connectivity, and directionality as BTEs and RICS. However, you should expect some variations in available features depending on the style and size of the custom hearing aid. The best way to find hearing aids that you will actually want to use every day is to discuss all your options and desires with a qualified hearing care professional. They can assess your needs and guide you to make the best choice possible based on all your unique variables. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Otto, call 440255-1800.

Robert J. Otto Au.D.

Earmark Audiology, LLC Mentor Medical Campus 9485 Mentor Ave. Mentor 44060 440-255-1800 www.earmarkaudiology.com