Hearing aids have come a long way in recent years – not just in terms of technology and sound quality, but also their design. Despite these advancements, one of the most common concerns we hear from clients is the appearance of hearing aids.
Forget what you remember from decades ago (the hearing aids your grandparents wore). The large, beige hearing aids of the past have now been replaced with sleek, lightweight models. Some are so small, they’re nearly invisible.
Different types of Modern Hearing Aids
Gone are the days of bulky, beige devices that whistle all the time. Today’s hearing aids are sleek, discrete and have millions of dollars of technological research backing them up.
Options include
- Receiver-in-canal (RIC): Thin, lightweight devices worn behind the ear. Nowadays, they are so small, they are hidden behind the ear completely.
- In-the-canal (IIC): Custom hearing aids that are moulded to your ears and nearly invisible.
- Invisible-in-canal (IIC): Small devices that are placed deeper into the ears and are truly invisible from the outside.
These hearing aids are offered in many colours to match skin and hair colour.
Your Cosmetic Concerns are Valid
Let’s be honest – how we look affects how we feel. It is natural to be concerned about wearing a device on your ears, especially something associated with aging. But remember, hearing loss affects people of all ages. In fact, around 1 in 6 Australians have some degree of hearing loss, including young adults and children.
The Bigger Picture: What’s More Noticeable?
Here’s something to think about: untreated hearing loss is often more noticeable than hearing aids themselves. Constantly asking for repeats, misunderstanding conversations or responding inappropriately can draw more attention than a small device tucked behind your ears.
True stories, inspiring changes to life
Many of my clients initially express concerns about the visibility of the aids. But time and time again, they come back and say:
– “No one even noticed I had them.”
– “I wish I hadn’t waited this long.”
– “I can hear the birds again.”
In most of these cases, loved ones notice the change before the hearing aid user even does – not in appearance, but in improved participation, mood, and quality of life.
We, as audiologists, validate your concerns of visibility of hearing aids. This is why we spend a large portion of time with you in consultations to personalise and choose the best hearing aid style for you.
Introducing Phonak Lyric™: The world’s only 100% invisible hearing aid
- 100% Invisible – Unlike traditional hearing aids, Lyric is placed deep into the ear canal, making it invisible to the world.
- Clear, natural sound – Lyric delivers a more natural hearing experience because sound is processed analogue. Lyric uses your natural ear anatomy to localise sound.
- 24/7 hearing – Wear Lyric around the clock for months at a time without taking it out through daily activities such as exercising or even showering.
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