Behind the Ear
A behind-the-ear hearing aid may be the right choice for everyday Australians who experience anything from mild to severe hearing loss. They are also the most popular types of hearing aid in Australia.
What Are
Behind-the-Ear Hearing Aids?
Behind-the-ear hearing aids work by combining a plastic case worn behind your ear with an earmold that fits just outside the outer ear.
The electronic parts used to receive and amplify electrical signals are held inside the plastic case. When the plastic case detects sound, it converts that sound into signals that are sent to the earmold. Sound travels through the earmold directly into your ear.
Some versions of these hearing aids come with a narrow tube that inserts directly into the ear canal. This allows them to bypass earwax entirely, preventing build-up.
Are Behind-the-Ear Hearing Aids a Good Choice
Behind-the-ear hearing aids are often one of the least expensive options. They’re also comfortable and easy to both use and maintain. The downsides are that they’re less discreet.
Pros
Cons
Who Is Suitable for Behind-the-Ear Hearing Aids?
The type of hearing aid that works best for you depends on the severity of your hearing loss. Those with mild-to-severe hearing loss often benefit from a behind-the-ear hearing aid because the device can overcome most forms of hearing loss.
Cost is also an issue for many hearing-impaired individuals.
The behind-the-ear option may be best for those who wish to limit their spending as much as possible. It’s often the most cost-effective choice, especially when compared to in-the-ear devices.
However, costs may increase if your behind-the-ear hearing aid comes with additional features, such as Bluetooth connectivity.
The obvious downside to a behind-the-ear hearing aid is that it’s less discreet than other options.
People can see the plastic case and earmold, which may prove off-putting to those who wish to conceal their hearing loss. It’s also important to note that these hearing aids don’t restore normal hearing. Instead, they help to amplify sounds, meaning practice is essential to get the most out of the device.
If you’d like to speak to an audiologist about your choice of hearing aid, the Freedom Hearing experts are here to help.
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Behind-the-Ear FAQs
The cost of behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids in Australia can vary widely depending on the specific make and model, as well as the features and technology included.
On average, the cost of a basic BTE hearing aid can range from around $2000 to $3000, while more advanced models with additional features and technology can cost upwards of $5000.
Additionally, the cost of fitting and programming the hearing aids, as well as ongoing maintenance and support, should also be taken into account. It is always recommended to check with your local audiologist or hearing aid provider for more accurate prices and options.
There are several advantages to behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids:
- They are generally more powerful than other types of hearing aids, making them a good option for people with severe hearing loss.
- They are easy to handle and adjust, making them a good choice for people with dexterity issues.
- They can have a larger battery than other types of hearing aids which can result in longer battery life.
- They are less likely to get clogged with earwax, as the earmold is not inserted into the ear canal.
- They are more versatile than other types of hearing aids as they can be used with a wide range of earmolds and accessories.
- They are more visible than other types of hearing aids, which can be an advantage for some people, as it may help to reduce the stigma associated with hearing loss.
- They are relatively affordable and often covered by insurance.
BTE hearing aids are also available for children, and they are a popular choice for kids because they are easy to handle, adjust, and maintain.
The behind-the-ear hearing aids are kept in place by an earmold, a piece of plastic that is put into your ear canal and holds them firmly in place.
Many individuals who use behind-the-ear hearing aids struggle to maintain them in their ears, but there are solutions available.
Selecting a pair with an adjustable stem, which can be made shorter or longer depending on how deep your ears are, is one way to go about it.
A solid seal between your skin and the end of the tube where it enters your ear canal is another approach to prevent them from slipping out.
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