The Pros and Cons of a Basic Hearing Aid

Can you afford to cut costs and purchase a basic hearing device?

Your visit to the audiologist confirmed your suspicions; you are suffering from mild hearing loss. You work, are busy and would benefit from using a hearing device. But life is demanding, there’s a mortgage to pay and the car’s getting old, so where best to allocate your hard-earned cash?

Hearing devices range hugely in capability, designs and functionality, and this is reflected in the price tag. Think carefully and weigh the pros and cons of purchasing a basic device, because this is something you are going to use every day and making the wrong decision could prove a false economy.

The Pros of a Basic Hearing Device

• Sounds are louder: A basic hearing aid amplifies sound. In practical terms this means it process sound and makes it louder, directing that boosted signal into your ear. Indeed, a basic hearing aid has many features in common with its more sophisticated cousins; both have a microphone that detects sound, amplification circuitry, and a receiver that is a type of miniature loudspeaker. So far so good, sounds will be louder and easier to hear.

• Reliable technology: A basic hearing device is likely to be based on older technology. This is fine, because ten years ago it may have been considered ‘state of the art’, its just things have moved and with a decade of research and development in between, there have been considered refinements and improvements in function.

• Behind-the-ear (BTE) design: A basic model is most likely to be the classic BTE design. The body of the device which houses the batteries, microphone and circuitry is mounted behind your ear with tubing that transfers the sound into your ear canal. The body of the BTE is likely to be beige or brown but can be disguised if your hairstyle covers the earflap.

• Functional: A basic hearing aid will do the job but in a no-frills way. Using a hearing device of whatever price is far preferable to ignoring your hearing loss and having your ability to listen degrades further.

The Cons of a Basic Hearing Device

• Sounds are louder: Unfortunately it’s not just the sound of speech that is amplified but all the noises around you, such as traffic, trains, and background chatter. This cacophony can make for uncomfortable listening. Upgraded models can contain programming which filters out unwanted sounds, making for a clearer listening experience.

• Reliable technology: Newer, more expensive models have improved functionality with extended battery life and rechargeable options, and life-enhancing features such as being waterproof.

• BTE design: If you are self-conscious about wearing a device, then a basic aid may not be for you, whereas superior models are smaller and come in a range of colors.

• Functional: The device is basic, but effective, whereas digital technology allows for Bluetooth connectivity to your cell phone, TV or laptop for wireless, or modified sound amplification.

Before making a purchase, break the cost down as ‘per wear,’ and whereas the initial cost may be more, the value can be impressive.