Hearing Aids: Understanding the Different Types, Uses, and Limitations
Hearing aids are small but powerful devices that can significantly improve a person’s quality of life by amplifying sound and supporting clearer communication. While they don’t restore hearing, they can make everyday conversations, environments, and experiences far more accessible for many people with hearing loss.
There are many reasons someone might use a hearing aid, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. The right type of device depends on the individual’s specific hearing needs, lifestyle, and preferences. In this blog, we’ll explore the different types of hearing aids available in Australia, common reasons people use them, and some of the limitations to be aware of.
Why People Use Hearing Aids
Hearing loss can affect people of all ages and may occur gradually or suddenly. It might be caused by age, genetics, exposure to loud noise, illness, injury, or other medical conditions. Hearing loss can be conductive (affecting the outer or middle ear), sensorineural (affecting the inner ear or auditory nerve), or mixed.
People may choose to use hearing aids to:
Improve communication in social or work settings,
Increase awareness of environmental sounds (e.g. traffic, alarms),
Reduce feelings of isolation or withdrawal, and
Support cognitive function and reduce listening fatigue.
Some individuals wear hearing aids in both ears, while others may use just one—depending on their specific type and degree of hearing loss.
Types of Hearing Aids
There are several types of hearing aids available, each with different features, benefits, and considerations:
1.
Behind-the-Ear (BTE) Hearing Aids
These devices sit behind the ear and connect to an earmould or dome inside the ear canal. BTEs are suitable for people of all ages and are often chosen for moderate to profound hearing loss.
Pros: Powerful amplification, durable, can include telecoil or Bluetooth features.
Cons: More visible, may feel bulky for some users.
2.
Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) or Receiver-in-the-Ear (RITE) Hearing Aids
Similar to BTEs, but the speaker (receiver) is located inside the ear canal instead of the main body of the device.
Pros: Discreet, good sound quality, suitable for mild to severe hearing loss.
Cons: May not be ideal for people with dexterity difficulties due to small components.
3.
In-the-Ear (ITE) and In-the-Canal (ITC) Hearing Aids
These are custom-moulded devices that fit directly into the outer or lower portion of the ear canal. They are less visible than BTE styles.
Pros: Comfortable, easy to insert, suitable for mild to moderate hearing loss.
Cons: Limited space for features, more susceptible to earwax and moisture damage.
4.
Completely-in-Canal (CIC) and Invisible-in-Canal (IIC) Hearing Aids
These sit deep inside the ear canal and are the smallest, most discreet types.
Pros: Nearly invisible, natural sound experience.
Cons: Not suitable for severe hearing loss, battery life tends to be shorter.
5.
Bone Conduction Hearing Aids
Instead of amplifying sound through the ear canal, these transmit sound via vibrations through the bones of the skull. They are used when traditional hearing aids aren’t effective, such as for individuals with conductive hearing loss, single-sided deafness, or structural issues with the outer or middle ear.
Pros: Suitable for people who can’t wear traditional aids, can be worn on a soft band or implanted.
Cons: Not suitable for all types of hearing loss, may be less discreet.
Limitations of Hearing Aids
While hearing aids are helpful tools, they do have limitations. Understanding these helps set realistic expectations and encourages a more supportive approach to hearing accessibility.
They don’t cure hearing loss. Hearing aids amplify sound, but they can’t restore normal hearing or repair damaged parts of the auditory system.
Background noise can still be a challenge. In noisy environments, separating voices from other sounds may remain difficult, even with advanced technology.
They require adjustment. It often takes time for users to adapt to wearing hearing aids—physically, socially, and emotionally.
Maintenance is ongoing. Devices need regular cleaning, battery changes (or recharging), and occasional servicing.
Cost and access can be a barrier. While some people can access hearing aids through the NDIS or other funding schemes, cost remains a concern for many.
Supporting People Who Use Hearing Aids
As a support worker, family member, or friend, there are small actions you can take to create a more inclusive environment for people who use hearing aids:
Face the person when speaking so they can use visual cues.
Speak clearly and at a moderate pace, without shouting.
Reduce background noise when possible.
Check in regularly about comfort, battery levels, or any device issues—especially if the person has communication difficulties.
Be patient during adjustment periods or if communication breaks down.
Creating Confidence Through Better Hearing
Hearing aids are powerful tools that support independence, confidence, and connection for people with hearing loss. By understanding the different types available and the challenges users may face, we can better support their needs and promote genuine inclusion.
Whether you’re working alongside someone with hearing aids or exploring the option for yourself, the most important thing to remember is that hearing loss doesn’t define a person—it’s just one part of a diverse human experience.