Advance Ear Care (949) 777-6521

Hearing Aids: You’ve Come a Long Way, Baby

Hearing aid technology has advanced over

the past several years in part due to

increased comprehensive research and

development by large manufacturers. Many

large companies have teamed with

renowned researchers to ensure quality

sound in practical devices that fit various lifestyles.

Probably the most significant improvement is digital signal

processing (DSP). DSP has become standard since its introduction

in the 1990s. DSP allows for smaller devices, automatic

adjustments, and increased features. The following is a

description of some of the most common options available in DSP

devices:

Noise reduction/speech enhancement: Most people with

hearing loss could get along fine without hearing aids if they lived

in a quiet environment. However, most of us live in constant

background noise including television, kitchen noise, fans,

appliances, and others when others are talking. The means by

which sound is reduced or speech is enhanced varies among

companies, but all include a process of analyzing incoming

sounds to recognize speech versus noise. The result is clearer

speech in the presence of background noise.

Advance Ear Care (949) 777-6521

Directional microphones: Another way of eliminating unwanted

background noise. This is done with two microphones working

together to improve the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). There are

numerous types of microphones and arrays that enhance SNR.

Some devices require the directional microphone to be activated

by the listener while other devices are automatic. This option is

available only in select styles.

Feedback management: Gone are the squealing hearing aids of

the past. By making a stable gain measurement in your ears,

devices are programmed to automatically detect when feedback

(squealing) is going to occur. Special algorithms then cancel out

the feedback or decrease gain to eliminate this unwanted sound.

Multiple Programs: The use of multiple programs allows the

listener to hear better in a variety of settings such as quiet, noise,

telephone, and music. Advanced models have automatic multiple

programs while others require the wearer to press a button or

toggle to change programs.

Remote control: A remote can be used for individuals who have

trouble adjusting the small button or for those who desire greater

flexibility. Some companies offer remote controls that program

the hearing device to “learn” your preferred volume and comfort

settings.

Advance Ear Care (949) 777-6521

These options are available on most new devices; however, not

all of these options are available on every model. Talk to an

audiologist to see which of these hearing aid options are best for

you.

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