Hearing aids are devices used to combat hearing loss, and can improve quality of life and confidence by restoring your ability to pick up quieter conversations and everyday sounds such as doorbells and telephone rings. Modern hearing aids are subtle and unobtrusive – our specialists can help you find one to suit your lifestyle and needs. We can also carry out hearing aid assessments at your home, for total ease and comfort.
We offer a range of hearing aid styles. Our specialists will be able to advise on which would best suit you, but a summary of the different types is below:
Invisible in the Canal (IIC)
This is perfect if you’re wanting something discreet, as it they are custom made to sit deep within the ear. Suitable for mild to moderate hearing loss and available from multiple manufacturers with various control options. Not advised for those with particularly narrow ear canals or prone to ear infections.
Completely in the Canal (CIC)
These are a bit bigger than IIC hearing aids but can still be custom made for a discreet fit. This style is suitable for most ear canals and for moderate to severe hearing loss. Available from a range of manufacturers, most have remote control and some have wireless compatibility.
In the Ear (ITE)
These are larger than CICs and so easier to handle, for those with dexterity concerns. This also means they can carry a larger battery with longer life. Suitable for moderate to severe hearing loss and most ear canals, with remote control and wireless options available.
Open Ear
Some clients don’t like the sensation of a hearing aid inside the ear canal and prefer a device that sits discreetly behind the ear. These are also particularly good for those with narrow ear canals or who have issues with moisture. Suitable for clients with mild to moderate hearing loss – usually, normal hearing is maintained and reduced frequencies are enhanced. Typically have remote control and wireless compatibility options.
Receiver in the Canal (RIC)
These are quite similar to Open Ear hearing aids, but the receiver here sits inside the ear, attached by a wire. This reduces the size of the housing behind the ear and also improves feedback, meaning these have broader application and are suitable for mild to severe hearing loss. Typically have remote control and wireless compatibility options.
Power Hearing Aids
This is the recommended option for those with severe to profound hearing loss and provide benefits including fewer feedback issues, increased sound without distortion, frequency transposition or compression to increase audible areas of hearing, increased control and wireless capability. Modern developments have reduced the size for greater comfort and subtlety.