Hearing loss is a common problem, especially among older adults. There’s no question that hearing loss can have an impact on every aspect of a person’s daily life, including relationships, career, social activities, hobbies, and more. If you or a loved one is experiencing any type of hearing loss, then the best thing you can do is seek professional support to optimize your hearing and improve your lifestyle.
The good news is that hearing aid technology has come a long way in recent years. These advancements in technology make it easier and more affordable than ever to improve hearing. Also, new features are available so that this technology can integrate into many aspects of your life. Keep reading to learn more about the way technology is being integrated into hearing treatments:
It’s no surprise that artificial intelligence is reaching into all industries, including hearing aid technology. Some of the modern hearing aids have AI algorithms that use real-time analysis for environmental sounds, helping to make automated adjustments in the settings. The goal is to optimize hearing by minimizing the amplification of background sounds.
In the past, hearing aids were challenging to use because they amplified all sounds. Now, this AI technology can selectively choose which sounds are being amplified. AI is beneficial because it can:
We are anticipating that AI will continue to improve the industry over time. These advancements are exciting, and it will be interesting to see what other features come out in the future.
When hearing aids have built-in Bluetooth technology, it means that they can connect with many different devices such as smartphones, televisions, and more. This integration improves the quality of the sound since it moves directly through the hearing aid.
One convenience of Bluetooth integration is the ability to control and customize the audio streaming. For example, you can often use a smartphone app to adjust the volume and enhance the sounds that you are hearing.
Other benefits of this smart technology include features that track health factors and even fall detection if needed.
As technology advances, it’s possible to make hearing aids with smaller designs. These modern devices are much more discreet compared to the large over-ear hearing aids that were used in the past. Now, hearing aids are less noticeable, which makes them more appealing for patients who need to wear these devices.
Additionally, the smaller design makes it more comfortable to wear hearing aids throughout the day. They are lighter, and there is less pressure on the ear. You can choose from different styles, such as completely-in-canal (CIC) and invisible-in-canal (IIC) options.
These models are being designed to ensure both aesthetic appeal and comfort so that patients who need hearing support are more likely to adopt the use of hearing aids when necessary.
One complaint of older hearing aid models was the need to change the batteries frequently. Now, the latest models have rechargeable batteries and they are much more convenient compared to the old technology.
Modern hearing aids offer a much longer battery life, allowing you to enjoy all-day wear without any interruptions. Additionally, there are undeniable environmental benefits to eliminating the use of so many disposable batteries.
Another benefit of modern hearing aid technology is that the sound quality is continuing to improve. These tools can process the sounds more effectively, resulting in better clarity for the user. The result is a listening experience that is more natural and immersive. Researchers are continually testing new technologies that make the sounds as normal and natural as possible.
Some of the features that are improving sound quality include directional microphones and noise reduction. Not only are the sounds clearer, but these features help to reduce listening fatigue – which makes it easier to wear the hearing aids for longer periods of time.
Every patient is unique, which is why it’s important to personalize the hearing aids based on your unique needs. The more technology continues to improve, the more options are available to customize the hearing aids for each person.
Our team evaluates your specific hearing loss concerns and preferences and then provides truly customized recommendations that will improve your overall results. Working with a skilled and experienced audiologist is one of the best investments that you can make. Not only do we provide initial recommendations, but ongoing support is available to program the hearing aids to optimize their performance as much as possible.
For this reason, it’s important to stay consistent with regular follow-up appointments as needed. We can fine-tune the settings over time, which will improve the quality of your results.
We can’t predict how technology will continue to improve in the future. But there are many possibilities that seem to be on the horizon. Some of the things that are being discussed in the industry include:
While these features aren’t yet fully developed or available for the general public, they give us a glimpse into what the future might have in store for the hearing aid industry.
Whether you have been diagnosed with hearing loss or you suspect that you might have early symptoms, it’s important to schedule an appointment with an experienced hearing provider. Our team is here to help with hearing tests, as well as the latest industry recommendations including hearing aid technology. We offer personalized support for people of all ages.
For more information about hearing aids and other assistive technology, we invite you to contact our team at Fairfax Hearing Center. We are always just a phone call away and ready to assist.
