Questions you want to ask about Bluetooth Technology, how to identify essential hearing aid technology and more

August 10, 2022

Key Points:

• Bluetooth technology solves many existing problems with ease
• Understand latest new hearing aid technologies and identify which are the essential ones to meet your hearing needs
  • Power requirement and suitability are more important than cosmetic appeal
  • Solution varies based on individual’s hearing profile and needs

Hearing aid technologies have improved significantly over the last few years. One of the most important features that changes overall hearing aid experience is the introduction of wireless Bluetooth connectivity in modern hearing aids.

Bluetooth technology solves many existing problems with ease.  Often, we hear complaints from unhappy hearing aid users saying that they still have difficulties hearing TV programs, answering phone calls even when they put on their hearing aids.

Bluetooth technology transforms the hearing aid into a wireless earbud and allows sound to be streamed directly to it. Direct wireless streaming of sound optimises the clarity of the amplified sound from TV, mobile phone, iPad, computer and the voice of a person. Once again, individuals can enjoy their favourite TV programs, listen to YouTube through the mobile phone, answer phone calls/ FaceTime with their grandchildren or friends, listen to a speaker over distance through wireless Bluetooth connectivity

Covid-19 pandemic also made us realise those with mild hearing loss will start to face difficulty hearing others during online meetings clearly. This affects work performance and relationships. This problem can also easily be overcome with Bluetooth-compatible hearing aids.

Bluetooth: nice to have or essential?

From our clinical experiences, Bluetooth connectivity is essential, not a nice-to-have feature in hearing aids. It is effective and easy to use, not only addressing the gaps in hearing lifestyles not filled by older hearing aid technology, but also suitable to be used across age groups. More importantly it is available in more affordable entry class hearing aid models, which means all users can benefit from it.

After learning more about modern technology in hearing aid such as wireless Bluetooth feature in part one of this series (click here to read it), you may be wondering “how do i know which technology are the essential ones for me or my loved ones’hearing needs? This is a important question as the evaluation and selection process is key to improving hearing from the start.

Understand what are the new hearing aid technologies available and which are the essential one to meet your hearing needs 

Wireless Bluetooth connectivity, rechargeability, tinnitus masking features, CROS technology, remote accessories such as remote microphones, Roger system, mobile apps etc. are examples of new technologies available in today’s hearing aids. Much information about hearing aids is accessible online and in the market. However, we realised that many remain confused or are unsure its applications and benefits e.g. how to evaluate and select the one best suits them. This underscores the importance for one to understand both their hearing needs and what are the essential new technologies required to optimise the hearing aid outcome before they purchase the aids. This is where a qualified Audiologist who is experienced, speaks their language can help.

a) Power requirement and suitability are more important than cosmetic appeal

Often, cosmetic appeal, cost and advanced features such as recharge ability tends to be the main hearing aid’s purchase considerations, especially for new users. However, the key considerations to consider are firstly; the hearing aid’s power requirement (directly proportional to the amount to the hearing loss condition), eardrum and ear conditions, as well as the user’s dexterity level for hearing aids handling and maintenance.

Hearing aids are mainly classified into three main categories: custom made in-the-ear, RIC (receiver in the canal) and high power behind the ear styles. The power, configuration and technologies are different for each style. Our clinical experiences made us realise that the wrong selection of hearing aid model affects not only the hearing outcome, usage, satisfaction, which may incur misconception towards hearing aids. At The Hearing Specialist, our clinical Audiologists will guide and assist you in the selection of the most suitable models based on your overall hearing condition and daily challenges, including those that may be overlooked.

Click here to understand the different models of hearing aids.

b) Understanding hearing loss profile and challenges

The types of hearing challenges faced by individuals differs, depending on:

• different levels of hearing loss (e.g. mild, moderate, severe and profound)
• laterality of hearing loss (e.g. single sided or bilateral hearing loss)
• configuration and types of hearing loss (flat/ sloping, conductive/ mixed/ sensorineural hearing loss)
• other listening needs and challenges e.g. ability to hear from mobile devices, hearing over longer distances

The above scenarios require different technology solutions to improve one’s hearing and meet daily hearing lifestyle needs. This process requires understanding and identifying relevant hearing aid technology and features to match them to one’s needs, importance of hearing aid model selection as certain technologies required may only be available in certain hearing aid models only.  This is where consulting an Audiologist with in-depth knowledge is important.

At The Hearing Specialist, we truly understand and feel the inconvenience and impacts when existing or the old hearing aids do not help much. Our Audiologists understand the importance in helping users and their family members understand their hearing needs and evaluate suitable solutions so that they can make a better informed decision on new hearing aids solutions.