Not Sure Which Hearing Aid Is Right for You?
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Advanced Hearing Aid Technology in Edmonton
Hearing aid technology supports sound amplification and improved speech clarity. At Wild Rose Audiology Clinic Ltd., devices are selected based on clinical assessments and individual hearing needs.
A hearing aid is a compact, battery-powered device with three key components: a microphone to capture sound, an amplifier to increase signal strength, and a receiver to deliver sound into the ear. Contact us for hearing aid technology and fitting services in Edmonton to support your hearing care needs.
Hearing Aids Technology and Key Components
We carry a wide range of hearing instrument technologies, developed by the world’s most advanced manufacturers.
We carry a wide range of hearing instrument technologies, developed by the world’s most advanced manufacturers.
A hearing aid is a miniature battery-powered electronic system that amplifies sound.
The key components of a hearing aid are:
- A microphone to pick up sounds and convert them into electrical
- An amplifier to increase the strength of the electrical signal.
- A miniature loudspeaker called a “receiver” to convert electrical signals back into sounds.
Hearing Aid Styles
Hearing aids are available in different styles and configurations, which are as follows:
Behind-the-ear (BTE)
Sits on top of the ear and requires an earmold
In-the-canal (ITC)
Fits completely in the external ear canal
In-the-Canal (ITC)
Fits partially in the ear canal, filling about half of the ear. More visible than a CIC.
In-the-ear (ITE)
Fits into the ear canal and fills the whole outer ear.
Slim-tube BTE
Similar to the BTE style because the amplifier and electronics sit on top of the ear. However, these hearing aids may be smaller, have a much slimmer tube that brings the sound into the ear, and may have a small flexible tip that sits in the ear canal instead of an earmold.
Receiver-in-the-canal (RIC)
RIC hearing aids look similar to the slimtube BTE style. However, in the RIC style, the receiver is placed in the ear canal and not housed in the hearing aid case behind the ear. As a result, the hearing aid can be much smaller and more discrete.
Invisible Hearing Aids
Lyric hearing aids can be placed deep into the ear canal by an approved Lyric trained provider and worn 24/7 for up to 3 months at a time. The result is an invisible and very discreet look. Wild Rose Audiology Clinic Ltd. is an approved Lyric provider.
CROS or BI-CROS Systems
This type of amplification is recommended to the person who has an unaidable hearing loss in one ear and normal hearing, or an aidable hearing loss in the other ear. The signal from the unaided ear is transmitted wirelessly, in real time, from the transmitter (worn on the poor ear) to the receiver instrument in the better ear.
Hearing Aid Fitting and Programming
Proper fitting and programming are essential components of hearing aid services, which are as follows:
- Initial fitting: Devices are adjusted to match the individual’s hearing thresholds using verified programming methods.
- Real-ear measurements (REMs): Objective testing is conducted to confirm that sound output meets prescribed amplification targets.
- Comfort adjustments: Settings are refined to ensure comfort across different listening environments.
- User orientation: Patients receive guidance on inserting, removing, and operating hearing aids.
Accurate fitting supports consistent sound quality and effective hearing performance.
Features of Modern Hearing Aids
Modern hearing aids include various features designed to support daily listening needs, which are as follows:
- Digital signal processing: Sound is processed to improve speech clarity and reduce background noise.
- Directional microphones: These help focus on sounds coming from specific directions, particularly in conversations.
- Rechargeable batteries: Many devices offer rechargeable options to support daily use without frequent battery replacement.
- Connectivity options: Hearing aids may connect to phones or other devices for audio streaming.
These features are selected based on patient requirements and clinical recommendations. Go through our blogs for the additional insights!
Ongoing Support and Maintenance
Hearing aids require regular maintenance and follow-up care to ensure optimal performance, which includes the following:
- Routine check-ups: Scheduled visits allow audiologists to monitor hearing changes and device performance.
- Device cleaning: Regular cleaning prevents wax buildup and maintains sound quality.
- Programming updates: Adjustments are made as hearing needs change over time.
- Troubleshooting support: Clinical assistance is provided to address any technical or usage concerns.
At Wild Rose Audiology Clinic Ltd., ongoing support is an integral part of our hearing aid services.