Selecting a hearing aid involves many considerations beyond just addressing hearing loss. With numerous styles, features, and technologies available, finding the perfect match for your lifestyle and hearing needs can seem overwhelming. At Boerne Hearing & Tinnitus, we guide you through this process to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding Hearing Aid Styles
Modern hearing aids come in several different styles, each with unique benefits:
Behind-the-Ear (BTE)
BTE hearing aids sit behind or on top of the outer ear with a tube connecting to an earpiece or mold that fits in your ear canal.
Benefits:
- Suitable for mild to profound hearing loss
- Easier to handle for those with dexterity issues
- Longer battery life due to larger size
- More powerful amplification capabilities
- Often include telecoil options for public settings
BTE models like the Oticon Intent provide robust features with telecoil options that work with both newer Auracast technology and traditional loop systems in public venues.
Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) / Receiver-in-Ear (RIE)
These popular styles place the speaker directly in the ear canal with the processing unit behind the ear.
Benefits:
- Less visible than traditional BTE models
- Comfortable fit for many users
- Reduced occlusion (plugged feeling)
- Appropriate for mild to severe hearing loss
- Advanced technology in a smaller package
The Widex Moment Sheer, Phonak Infinio, and ReSound Vivia offer excellent RIC options with features like AI-driven sound processing and extended connectivity.
In-the-Ear (ITE) & In-the-Canal (ITC)
These custom-molded devices fit in the outer ear bowl (ITE) or partly in the ear canal (ITC).
Benefits:
- More discreet than BTE models
- Easier to insert than smaller custom styles
- Include features like directional microphones
- May include telecoil options
- Good for mild to moderate-severe hearing loss
The Starkey Edge AI offers custom ITE and ITC options with health monitoring features.
Completely-in-Canal (CIC)
CIC hearing aids fit deeply in the ear canal, making them nearly invisible.
Benefits:
- Very discreet appearance
- Less wind noise
- Good for mild to moderate hearing loss
- Use the ear's natural acoustics
- No tubes or wires visible
The Starkey Edge AI CIC model includes wireless connectivity despite its small size.
Invisible-in-Canal (IIC)
The smallest style available, IICs sit completely inside the ear canal.
Benefits:
- Virtually invisible when worn
- Uses natural ear acoustics
- Minimal to no wind noise
- Appropriate for mild to moderate hearing loss
Extended Wear / Lyric
These special hearing aids remain in the ear canal for months at a time.
Benefits:
- 100% invisible
- 24/7 wear for months at a time
- No daily insertion or removal
- No battery changes
- Can be worn during showering and sleeping
The Phonak Lyric is the leading extended-wear hearing aid, offering continuous use for months without removal.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hearing Aid Style
1. Degree of Hearing Loss
Your hearing test results play a crucial role in determining which styles will work for you:
- Mild to Moderate Loss: Most styles are suitable, including smaller options like CIC and IIC
- Moderate to Severe Loss: BTE, RIC, and some custom models work best
- Severe to Profound Loss: BTE devices typically provide the necessary power
2. Dexterity and Vision
Your ability to handle small devices and batteries affects your options:
- If you have arthritis or limited finger dexterity, larger hearing aids like BTEs or rechargeable models may be easier to manage
- Those with vision challenges may prefer devices with larger buttons or app controls
3. Ear Canal Anatomy
Not everyone can wear every style:
- Very narrow ear canals may not accommodate ITC, CIC, or IIC models
- Previous ear surgeries may limit certain custom options
- Frequent ear wax production might make deep-fitting devices problematic
4. Lifestyle and Activities
Your daily activities influence the optimal hearing aid style:
- Active/Athletic: Water-resistant BTE or RIC models with secure fit
- Business/Professional: Discreet CIC or RIC options
- Frequent Phone Users: Devices with Bluetooth connectivity
- Outdoor Enthusiasts: Models with wind noise reduction
- Music Lovers: Hearing aids with specialized music programs
5. Technology and Feature Preferences
Consider which features matter most to you:
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Most BTE and RIC models offer direct streaming
- Rechargeable Batteries: Available in many styles except the smallest customs
- Directional Microphones: Improve hearing in noisy environments
- Telecoil: Helpful for public venues with loop systems
- Smartphone Apps: Allow discreet adjustments without touching the device
6. Budget Considerations
Hearing aid prices vary based on style and technology level:
- Premium technology typically costs more but offers advanced features
- Some insurance plans or Medicare Advantage programs may help with coverage
- Consider the long-term value rather than just initial price
Latest Technology Advancements to Consider
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
AI-powered hearing aids like the Starkey Edge AI, ReSound Vivia, and Phonak Infinio actively analyze your environment and automatically adjust settings for optimal hearing.
Benefits include:
- Better speech understanding in noise
- Reduced listening effort
- More natural sound quality
- Personalized settings that learn from your preferences
Connectivity Features
Modern hearing aids connect to smartphones, TVs, and other devices:
- Direct streaming from smartphones (both iOS and Android)
- Hands-free phone calls
- TV streaming accessories
- Remote adjustments by your audiologist
The ReSound Vivia features new Auracast technology, allowing direct audio reception from public venues.
Rechargeable Technology
Most manufacturers now offer rechargeable options with:
- All-day battery life (even with streaming)
- No need to change tiny batteries
- Quick-charge capabilities for last-minute power needs
The Starkey Edge AI offers up to 51 hours of use on a single charge, while the Widex Moment Sheer provides strong performance with a portable charging case.
Tinnitus Management
If you experience tinnitus (ringing in the ears), certain hearing aids offer specialized features:
- Built-in sound therapy programs
- Customizable sounds to mask tinnitus
- App-based tinnitus management tools
The Phonak Lyric provides 24/7 amplification that may help reduce tinnitus awareness, while the Lenire tinnitus treatment system offers specialized therapy beyond traditional hearing aids.
Special Considerations
Hearing in One Ear Only
Those with hearing in only one ear may benefit from:
- CROS or BiCROS systems that transmit sound from the non-hearing side
- Models like the ReSound Vivia CROS and Starkey Edge AI CROS provide solutions for single-sided hearing loss
Severe Tinnitus
If tinnitus is your primary concern:
- The Lenire tinnitus treatment system uses both sound therapy and tongue stimulation
- Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT) combines counseling and sound therapy
First-Time Hearing Aid Users
New to hearing aids? Consider:
- Starting with user-friendly technology
- Choosing a style that's easy to insert and remove
- Looking for models with gradual adaptation features
Making Your Decision
The best hearing aid combines appropriate style, features, and technology level for your specific needs. At Boerne Hearing & Tinnitus, our audiologist Dr. Rachel Higginbotham works with you to find this ideal match by:
- Conducting comprehensive hearing evaluations
- Understanding your lifestyle needs and preferences
- Letting you try different styles during your appointment
- Explaining technology options in clear, understandable terms
- Providing follow-up care to ensure satisfaction
We carry a wide range of hearing aid brands and models, including Widex, Phonak, Starkey, ReSound, and Oticon, allowing us to find the perfect solution for your unique hearing needs.
Beyond the Hearing Aid
Remember that the hearing aid itself is just one part of better hearing. Professional fitting, programming, and follow-up care are equally important for success. As a locally-owned practice led by a Doctor of Audiology, we provide personalized attention throughout your hearing journey.
Schedule an appointment with our audiologist to discuss which hearing aid style would work best for your specific situation. Better hearing awaits at Boerne Hearing & Tinnitus.
