Behind-the-ear hearing aids were the first hearing amplifiers to enter the market. When they were first introduced, their use was extensive among those with impaired hearing.
As technology developed, so did hearing aids. Now, you get in- the- ear and canal models that have given behind-the-ear devices substantial competition. But this kind of hearing support is still used by people who are seeking an affordable yet effective way to deal with their hearing loss issues.
These small, hidden gadgets have found favor among both adults as well as children. A typical behind-the-ear model is comprised of a plastic case that is fixed behind the ear and connected to a mold inside the ear canal through a plastic tube. The plastic case contains some electronic parts including a minuscule microphone to capture and amplify sounds and convey them to the ear mold.
When you experience a hearing loss, don’t put off visiting an audiologist. After determining the extent of the hearing deficiency, the audiologist will arrange to have you fitted with a hearing aid.
There are both advantages and disadvantages to using these semi-hidden hearing devices.
Advantages
- These devices are suitable for young children with hearing defects. This is because behind-the-ear models are fairly safe and don’t hamper their growth.
- They are also the most powerful hearing amplifiers available today. They can amplify sound waves much better than other models. The size of the plastic casing provides room for bigger batteries. This makes it easier to change and replace batteries.
- This kind of hearing amplifier can be used no matter what the extent of hearing loss. Their use is recommended for people suffering from moderate to severe hearing deficiency. However, even those with mild hearing impairments can use these models with no difficulties.
- They are also cheaper as compared to more sophisticated devices. In-the-ear and canal hearing aids are quite costly.
- They are less susceptible to ear wax build up since the electronic components are stored in the plastic case behind the ear.
- If you’re concerned about visibility, they can be matched to your skin color to be almost indiscernible.
Disadvantages
- These models are big and a little uncomfortable to get used to. In-the-ear and canal models are soft and designed for comfort.
- Behind-the-ear models are visible no matter what color they are and not visually appealing. This prevents their usage since people view them as an announcement to the world of their hearing impairment.
Even though behind-the-ear hearing aids are declining in popularity, they were used by technicians to study and construct more superior and cutting edge designs for people with hearing loss. However, these models are still preferred by people who are looking for an inexpensive way to improve their hearing and are not embarrassed to admit that they’re hard of hearing.