HEARING AIDS 101

A hearing aid is a medical device that is worn behind or within the ear canal. Through battery power, the hearing aid is able to amplify sound so that a person with hearing loss is able to better hear their surroundings.

Hearing aids are built with four basic parts: the microphone, the processor, the receiver (or loudspeaker), and the battery.

The microphone(s) captures the natural sound surrounding the hearing aid user. Microphones can be either directional, picking up sound in front of the wearer, or omni directional, where sound is captured from every direction. When a microphone captures sound, it is converted to a digital message and sent to the processor.

The processor reads the microphone’s digital message and customizes what is amplified. After programming by a hearing healthcare professional, the processor will be able to enhance speech recognition, amplify certain sounds, cancel feedback and reduce background noise. A hearing aid’s quality is determined by its processing abilities as it is able to be customized to benefit the unique needs of the user.

The receiver/loudspeaker sends a soundwave from the processor to the ear canal. The hearing aid alters sounds in the environment to be clearer and more recognizable by the user. Hearing healthcare professionals are able to fit earpieces comfortably in the user’s ear to further ensure the highest quality of sound.

The battery keeps the hearing aid on and functioning. Depending on the hearing aid style and capabilities, disposable batteries can last anywhere from 3-20 days. Rechargeable batteries were created to provide power throughout the day after an overnight charge.