Hearing Aids

Digital Aids and Hearing Devices

More than 6 million Americans wear hearing aids to help improve their hearing loss. Unfortunately, that means there are still 24 million people who could benefit from the use of hearing aids, who aren’t wearing them. Over the past few years, the look and technology behind hearing aids has changed dramatically. The are now more effective and more discreet than ever before. Most importantly, hearing aids can help 9 out of 10 people with hearing loss.

How Hearing Aids Work

From the Better Hearing Institute

Hearing aids come in a variety of styles and use different technology to help you hear. And while each hearing aid works differently and is customized for your ears, their basic function is the same. The Better Hearing Institute provides the following overview on how hearing aids work:

  • Sound waves enter through the microphone, which converts acoustic signals into electrical signals.
  • The amplifier increases the strength of the electrical signal.
  • From the amplifier, the signal is then transformed back to an acoustic signal by the receiver (a miniature loud speaker).
  • From the receiver the signal is channeled into the ear canal, either through a small tube or through an ear mold.
  • A battery is required to power the hearing aid and enable the amplification process.
  • Learn more hearing aid facts from the Better Hearing Institute.

Styles of Hearing Aids

From the Better Hearing Institute

Hearing aids have been available in four styles: body, eyeglass, behind-the-ear (BTE) and in-the-ear (ITE). Included in the category of ITE hearing aids are in-the-canal (ITC) and completely-in-the-canal (CIC) styles.

While body and eyeglass style hearing aids were regularly used 40- 50 years ago, they comprise only about 1% of all hearing aids marketed today. Instead, most individuals choose ITE (approximately 80%) or BTE (approximately 20%) style hearing aids. This transition in style, use and preference is occurring for a number of reasons, including the reduction in the size of the components, durability and cosmetic concerns on the part of the consumer. Visit the Better Hearing Institute's hearing aids guide to learn more.