Invisible Hearing Aids: What You Need to Know

Understanding Hearing Loss and Invisible Hearing Aids

Hearing loss affects millions worldwide and varies in range from mild to profound. The advancement of hearing aid technology has led to the development of invisible hearing aids. These discrete devices are custom-made to fit inside the ear canal, and their unobtrusive style is often preferred by users who seek a natural listening experience.

Understanding the Different Degrees of Hearing Loss

Hearing loss is categorised based on how much a person’s hearing level deviates from the standard hearing threshold, which is typically measured in decibels (dB). Here are the different degrees of hearing loss:

Mild Hearing Loss:

Affected Range: 26 to 40 dB.

A person with mild hearing loss may struggle to hear soft sounds and understand speech in noisy environments. Conversations, especially when not face-to-face, may require increased concentration.

Mild to Moderate Hearing Loss:

Affected Range: Approximately 30 to 50 dB.

A person with mild to moderate hearing loss may experience difficulty in understanding conversations, especially in the presence of background noise. They may often ask others to speak more clearly.

Moderate Hearing Loss:

Affected Range: Approximately 41 to 55 dB.

A person with moderate hearing loss has difficulty following a conversation without a hearing aid. They also often need to ask people to repeat themselves and may rely more on lip-reading.

Moderate to Severe Hearing Loss:

Affected Range: Approximately 56 to 70 dB.

A person with moderate to severe hearing loss will likely have significant difficulty understanding speech, especially in noisy environments. The person may need to rely on more powerful hearing aids and may benefit from using additional assistive listening devices.

Severe Hearing Loss:

Affected Range: Approximately 71 to 90 dB.

A person with severe hearing loss cannot hear most conversations and speech without a hearing aid. They often rely on lip-reading and may use sign language to communicate. Powerful hearing aids or cochlear implants might be required depending on the cause of hearing loss.

Severe to Profound Hearing Loss:

Affected Range: Approximately 91 to 100 dB.

People with severe to profound hearing loss have considerable difficulty with auditory perception. They are highly reliant on assistive technologies and alternative methods of communication, such as sign language.

Profound Hearing Loss:

Affected Range: 100 dB+ hearing loss.

This is the most severe form of hearing loss. Individuals with profound hearing loss are usually unable to hear any speech and only some loud sounds. They typically rely on cochlear implants, visual aids, and sign language for communication.

Advantages of Invisible Hearing Aids

Unparalleled Discreteness

One of the primary advantages of invisible hearing aids is their discrete nature. By sitting deep within the ear canal, they are virtually invisible to others. This discreteness is particularly appealing to individuals who may feel self-conscious about wearing visible hearing aids, allowing them to regain their confidence in social situations.

Custom Fit to the Shape of Your Ear

Many Invisible hearing aids are custom-made to fit the unique shape of the individual’s ear canal. This personalised fit ensures maximum comfort and secure placement, reducing the chances of feedback or whistling. The custom fit also improves sound quality and enhances the wearer’s overall listening experience.

Enhanced Natural Sound Quality

By utilising the natural anatomy of the ear, invisible hearing aids capture and process sound in a way that closely resembles natural hearing. The deep placement within the ear canal allows for a more natural sound transmission, resulting in improved sound localisation and a more realistic auditory perception.

Reduction in Wind Noise

The placement of invisible hearing aids within the ear canal provides an advantage in minimising wind noise compared to other hearing aid styles. This feature is especially beneficial for individuals who spend a significant amount of time outdoors or in windy environments, allowing them to enjoy clearer and more comfortable hearing even in challenging conditions.

Wide Range of Connectivity Options

Many invisible hearing aids offer wireless connectivity options, allowing them to connect seamlessly to smartphones, televisions, and other compatible devices via Bluetooth. This connectivity enables users to stream audio directly to their hearing aids, enhancing their listening experience and allowing them to enjoy music, phone calls, and other media with improved clarity and convenience.

Disadvantages of Invisible Hearing Aids

Maintenance Challenges

Due to their small size and deep placement within the ear canal, invisible hearing aids can be more prone to issues such as earwax and moisture build-up. Regular cleaning and maintenance are crucial to ensure optimal performance and to prevent any damage caused by these factors. Users need to follow proper cleaning and maintenance guidelines provided by their audiologists.

Limited Manual Controls

Some styles of invisible hearing aids, particularly the smaller ones, may have limited manual controls due to their compact size. This can make it more challenging for individuals with dexterity issues to adjust settings or change batteries. However, advancements in technology have introduced more user-friendly controls and options for customisation in some models.

Battery Life

Invisible hearing aids often come with smaller batteries compared to larger hearing aid styles. Consequently, they have a shorter battery life, which may require more frequent battery changes. However, it’s important to note that some invisible hearing aids now offer rechargeable options, eliminating the need for regular battery replacements.

Not Suitable for All Types of Hearing Loss

While invisible hearing aids can accommodate a wide range of hearing losses, they may not be the ideal choice for severe or profound hearing loss. Individuals with significant hearing loss may require more powerful amplification provided by more prominent and more visible hearing aid styles. It is crucial to consult with an audiologist or hearing care professional to determine the most suitable hearing aid option based on the individual’s specific hearing needs.

Different Types of Invisible Hearing Aids

Invisible hearing aids, such as Phonak Lyric and ReSound LiNX, are an advanced hearing solution that sits deep within the ear canal. They are custom-made to fit the natural anatomy of the ear canal shape and offer a range of advanced features. These hearing aids are a practical option for people with narrow ear canals, where full-shell hearing aids or half-shell hearing aids may not be suitable.

Invisible in the Canal (IIC)

Invisible in the Canal (IIC) hearing aids are designed to sit deep within the ear canal, offering a discreet and almost invisible appearance. They provide several advantages and considerations:

Adaption to Sound Environment

IIC hearing aids are equipped with advanced technology that allows them to adapt automatically to different sound environments. They can detect changes in the surrounding sound levels and adjust their amplification accordingly. This feature ensures optimal hearing and comfort in various settings, such as quiet conversations, noisy gatherings, or outdoor environments.

Discreet Style

The main appeal of IIC hearing aids is their discreetness. Due to their deep placement within the ear canal, they are virtually invisible to others. This discreet style is particularly appealing to individuals who wish to keep their hearing loss private and maintain a natural appearance.

Vulnerability to Earwax and Moisture Build-up

One challenge with IIC hearing aids is their susceptibility to earwax and moisture build-up. Since they are positioned deep in the ear canal, they are more likely to come into contact with earwax, which can accumulate and impact their performance. Regular cleaning and maintenance are crucial to prevent any blockage or damage caused by earwax or moisture.

Minimisation of Wind Noise

The placement of IIC hearing aids deep within the ear canal offers an advantage in minimising wind noise. The natural structure of the outer ear and ear canal acts as a barrier against wind noise, providing better protection and improved listening comfort for individuals who spend time in windy environments.

Lack of Directional Microphone

IIC hearing aids do not typically include a directional microphone. Directional microphones are designed to enhance speech understanding by focusing on sounds coming from the front while reducing background noise from other directions. As a result, IIC hearing aids may not provide the same level of speech clarity in noisy environments compared to hearing aids with directional microphone technology.

Challenges for Individuals with Dexterity Issues

IIC hearing aids can be more challenging to adjust for individuals with dexterity issues. Their small size and deep placement within the ear canal may make it challenging to handle and manipulate the devices for battery replacement, volume control, or other manual adjustments. In such cases, alternative hearing aid styles with larger controls or remote control options may be more suitable.

Completely -in-the-canal (CIC)

Completely-in-the-canal (CIC) hearing aids are a popular choice for individuals seeking a discreet and nearly invisible hearing aid solution. Let’s delve into the advantages and considerations of CIC hearing aids:

Very Small and Discreet

CIC hearing aids are known for their extremely small size and discreet design. They are custom-designed to fit deep within the ear canal, making them virtually invisible to others. This discreet appearance is particularly appealing to individuals who prioritise aesthetics and prefer to keep their hearing loss private.

Custom-Designed for a Discreet Fit

CIC hearing aids are custom-made to fit discreetly in the individual’s ear canal. This custom fit ensures optimal comfort and secure placement, reducing the likelihood of feedback or whistling. The snug fit also helps to enhance the sound quality and prevent sound leakage, providing a more natural listening experience.

Manual Control Options

CIC hearing aids typically offer manual control options, allowing wearers to adjust settings based on their specific listening environments. These controls may include volume adjustments, program selection, and other personalised settings. The ability to manually control the hearing aids allows users to have greater flexibility and adaptability to different listening situations.

Vulnerability to Earwax and Moisture Build-up

One consideration with CIC hearing aids is their vulnerability to earwax and moisture build-up. Since they are positioned deep within the ear canal, they are more exposed to earwax, which can accumulate and potentially affect their performance. Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to prevent any blockage or damage caused by earwax or moisture. Following the recommended cleaning routines provided by the hearing care professional is crucial to ensure optimal functioning.

In-the-canal (ITC)

In-the-canal (ITC) hearing aids offer a range of benefits for individuals with hearing loss. Let’s explore the advantages and considerations of this particular style:

Small and Custom-Made Fit

ITC hearing aids are designed to be small and custom-made to fit comfortably within the ear canal. They take advantage of the individual’s unique ear canal shape, ensuring a secure and personalised fit. This enhances overall comfort, improves sound quality, and reduces the chances of feedback or whistling.

Discreet Appearance

Similar to other invisible hearing aids, ITC devices offer a discreet appearance. While not as invisible as completely-in-the-canal (CIC) or invisible-in-the-canal (IIC) styles, ITC hearing aids are still less noticeable compared to larger hearing aid styles. Their placement in the ear canal makes them less visible to others, allowing wearers to feel more confident and less self-conscious about their hearing aids.

Longer Battery Life

Compared to smaller invisible hearing aid models, ITC devices typically have longer battery life. The larger size of the ITC hearing aids allows for the use of larger batteries, which can provide extended usage before needing replacement. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals who prefer a longer-lasting power source or have difficulty changing batteries frequently.

Directional Microphone Technology

One significant advantage of ITC hearing aids is the inclusion of directional microphone technology. Directional microphones enhance important sounds, such as speech, by focusing on sounds coming from the front while reducing background noise from other directions. This feature improves speech understanding and listening comfort, particularly in noisy environments where background noise can be challenging.

Ease of Insertion and Removal

ITC hearing aids are relatively easy to insert and remove from the ear canal. The small size and customised fit make them more user-friendly, allowing wearers to easily handle and manipulate the devices as needed. This ease of use is particularly beneficial for individuals with manual dexterity issues or those who prefer a hassle-free experience.

miniRITE

miniRITE hearing aids offer several advantages that make them a popular choice for individuals with various types of hearing loss. Let’s explore the benefits of miniRITE hearing aids:

Suitable for Most Types of Hearing Loss

miniRITE hearing aids are versatile and can accommodate a wide range of hearing losses, from mild to severe. They offer adjustable amplification and programming options that can be tailored to meet the specific needs of the wearer. This flexibility makes them suitable for individuals with different degrees of hearing loss.

Smaller and Less Noticeable Design

Compared to traditional behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids, miniRITE devices are smaller and less noticeable. They have a sleek and compact design that rests behind the ear, with a thin wire or tube connecting to a receiver placed in the ear canal. This discreet appearance appeals to individuals who prefer a more inconspicuous hearing aid option.

Rechargeable Battery Options

Many miniRITE hearing aids come with rechargeable battery options. Instead of changing disposable batteries frequently, wearers can simply place their hearing aids in a charging dock overnight, ensuring a full day of use without the need for battery replacements. This feature offers convenience and eliminates concerns about running out of power.

Bluetooth Connectivity to Smart Devices

miniRITE hearing aids often feature Bluetooth connectivity, allowing them to connect wirelessly to smartphones, tablets, televisions, and other compatible devices. This wireless connection enables wearers to stream audio directly to their hearing aids, enhancing their listening experience for phone calls, music, videos, and other media. It also allows for convenient control and adjustments through smartphone apps.

Ventilated Small Dome for Comfort

miniRITE hearing aids are commonly connected to a small dome that sits inside the ear canal. This dome not only provides a secure fit but also allows for ventilation, reducing the occlusion effect (a sensation of hearing one’s own voice as hollow or booming). Ventilation promotes comfort and more natural sound perception.

The Best Invisible Hearing Aids

The best invisible hearing aid option depends on the individual user. However, the following hearing technologies represent some of the best options across the board. It is essential to consult with your local audiologist to help make a decision about which device is suitable for you.

Starkey Evolv AI

The Starkey Evolv AI is a range of hearing aids that are designed to deliver superior sound quality in a variety of listening environments. Powered by advanced hearing technology, the Evolv AI makes up to 55 million personalised adjustments every hour, ensuring that users can hear and enjoy life with realistic and genuine sound quality.

Unique Advantages

The Evolv AI stands out for its advanced features and capabilities. It offers a full range of innovative hearing aids, including the world’s first and only 2.4 GHz custom rechargeable hearing aids. With a 40% more reduction in noise energy compared to previous technology, the Evolv AI is designed to reduce listening effort and fit seamlessly into the user’s lifestyle.

Technology

The Evolv AI features friendly AI paired with advanced connectivity, including more Android devices than ever before. This allows users to experience and enjoy their favourite TV, music, and conversations, thanks to superior sound quality and effortless streaming. The Evolv AI also features health and activity trackers so users can monitor their health.

Feature Summary

Suitable for: Mild to Profound Hearing Loss

Hands-Free Calling: Yes

iPhone Streaming: Yes

Android Streaming: Yes

Battery Type: Rechargeable

Key Features:

Superior Sound Quality: Delivers realistic and genuine sound quality in every listening environment.

2-Way Audio: Allows users to take and end calls directly from the Evolv AI hearing aids instead of their Apple device.

Rechargeable: Offers a complete line of rechargeable hearing aids, including the world’s first and only 2.4 GHz custom rechargeable hearing aids.

Edge Mode: An on-demand Artificial Intelligence feature that works with or without the Thrive app to improve hearing in challenging listening environments.

Voice AI: A speech enhancement feature that uses the user’s iOS smartphone to deliver an unprecedented experience for those with moderate loss of 50 dB HL or greater.

Streaming: Enhanced performance allows users to enjoy their music or favourite TV shows like never before.

Oticon OWN

The Oticon Own range of invisible hearing aids represents a complete update of the company’s in-the-ear (ITE) line of hearing aids that were introduced four years ago. Powered by the company’s new Polaris chip platform, it features five styles in five technology levels and in five different colours, offering a discreet hearing solution with powerful technology.

Key Features of Oticon OWN

Polaris chip platform: This new technology platform provides faster processing and better sound quality.

Five styles: The Oticon Own is available in five different types, including the invisible-in-the-canal (IIC) and completely-in-the-canal (CIC) models.

Five technology levels: Users can choose from five different technology levels to find the right balance of price and performance.

Five colours: The hearing aids are available in five different colours, allowing users to choose a model that matches their personal style.

Wide fitting range: With receivers available up to 100 dB, the Oticon Own can be used by people with a wide range of hearing loss levels.

Connectivity: The hearing aids offer hands-free calling and streaming from both iPhone and Android devices.

Signia Silk X

The Signia Silk X is one of the world’s smallest hearing aids, providing users with a nearly invisible ready-to-wear hearing experience. Released by Signia Hearing Aids on July 13, 2020, it is an instant-fit Completely-In-Canal (CIC) hearing aid, ideal for wearers with mild to moderate hearing loss. Silk X is most well-known for being “tailor-made without the wait.” Unlike other in-the-ear hearing aids, ear impressions are not necessary - Silk X can be fit “off the shelf.”

Unique Advantages of the Signia Silk X

Silk X stands alone in the industry, checking boxes for wearers that other hearing aids cannot. At Abi Hearing, we consider Signia Silk X to be one of the best invisible hearing aids. It is virtually invisible as it sits deep in the ear, making them hardly noticeable to others. In some ears, Silk will disappear completely. It is also an instant-fit hearing aid, which means almost all other in-the-ear hearing aids require custom earmolds and a lengthy fabrication process, but Silk hearing aids are one size fits all and can be fitted immediately after your hearing test.

Signia Silk X Technology

Silk X uses the Signia Xperience technology to provide crystal-clear sound in every situation. Whether you’re in a crowded street, working in an open-plan office, or dining in a busy restaurant, wherever there’s a high level of ambient noise, holding a conversation requires concentration and effort. Silk X tackles these challenges expertly with the true-to-life sound of Signia Xperience. So you hear what matters to you. All day long, in every situation.

Key Features of the Signia Silk X

Nearly Invisible: Silk sits deep in the ear, making them hardly noticeable to others. In some ears, Silk will disappear completely.

Instant-Fit: Almost all other in-the-ear hearing aids require custom earmolds and a lengthy fabrication process. Silk hearing aids are one size fits all and can be fitted immediately after your hearing test.

Smartphone Controlled: Control your Silk hearing aid settings discreetly with the accompanying smartphone app. Quickly adjust settings like volume, program, and bass and treble discreetly from an easy-to-use app.

Crystal-clear sound: Silk X uses the Signia Xperience technology to provide crystal-clear sound in every situation.

Phonak Lyric

The Phonak Lyric is a unique hearing aid that is inserted deeply into the ear canal by a specially-trained audiologist or otolaryngologist, where it stays for months at a time. Unlike other hearing aids, there is no need to recharge the batteries at night, and you don’t need to take the hearing aids out when working out, showering, or going to bed. When the battery does need replacing, your Lyric devices would need to be removed and reinserted by a specialist.

Unique Advantages of Phonak Lyric

Lyric stands out as the most invisible hearing aid on the market. The deep insertion means it is very difficult, if not impossible, for those around you to see the device. This makes the Lyric an excellent choice for individuals seeking a discreet hearing solution.

Phonak Lyric Technology

The technology behind Lyric is designed for continuous wear. Unlike traditional hearing aids, Lyric can be worn during various daily activities like sleeping, showering, or exercising. It’s designed to be worn for months at a time, which means no daily insertion or removal, no battery changes, and no maintenance is required.

Key Features of the Phonak Lyric

Invisible: The deep insertion means it is very difficult, if not impossible, for those around you to see the device.

Continuous Wear: Designed to be worn for months at a time, which means no daily insertion or removal, no battery changes, and no maintenance is required.

Natural Sound: Lyric uses the natural anatomy of the ear to amplify and give you a natural listening experience.

No Daily Hassles: There’s no need to change batteries or remove the device every day.

Phonak Virto P-Titanium

The Phonak Virto P-Titanium, part of the Phonak Paradise line, is a custom-made hearing aid crafted from medical-grade titanium. It is renowned for its strength, durability, and lightweight nature, making it a comfortable and reliable choice for users.

Unique Advantages of Phonak Virto P-Titanium

The Virto P-Titanium is one of the smallest and most discreet in-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids available, providing an excellent balance between size and performance. Its titanium shell is 15 times stronger than traditional acrylic shells, allowing for a significantly thinner wall of the device and, thus, a smaller size. This makes the Virto P-Titanium an excellent choice for individuals seeking a discreet yet powerful hearing solution.

Phonak Virto P-Titanium Technology

The Virto P-Titanium utilises Phonak’s Paradise technology, which offers crisp natural sound, brilliant speech understanding, personalised noise cancelling, and connects to smartphones, TV and more. It also features AutoSense OS, which automatically adapts to the sound environment and enhances the user’s hearing experience.

Key Features of Phonak Virto P-Titanium

Custom-made from titanium: The Virto P-Titanium is crafted from medical-grade titanium, making it incredibly strong, lightweight, and durable.

Discreet design: The titanium shell allows for a thinner wall of the device, resulting in one of the smallest hearing aids on the market.

AutoSense OS: This feature automatically adapts to the sound environment and enhances the user’s hearing experience.

Connectivity: The hearing aids offer hands-free calling and streaming from both iPhone and Android devices.

Technological Advancements in Invisible Hearing Aids

From Analog to Digital

The transition from analogue to digital hearing aids marked a significant milestone in the evolution of hearing aid technology. This shift brought about a dramatic improvement in sound quality, particularly for invisible hearing aids. Digital technology introduced a range of innovative features that were previously unattainable with analogue devices. These include noise reduction, feedback cancellation, and the ability to amplify sound in a more natural way.

Advanced Features

Modern hearing aids are equipped with a host of advanced features designed to improve the user’s listening experience. One such feature is the PureWave Feedback Eliminator by Starkey Hearing Aids, which works to preserve speech and reduce the “echo-like” quality that can sometimes be associated with hearing aid use.

Another important advancement is the inclusion of high-frequency speech cues. This feature enhances the clarity of speech, making it easier for users to understand conversations, particularly in noisy environments.

Digital hearing aids also employ sophisticated technology to minimise wind noise. They are designed to handle complex listening environments by reducing background noise and enhancing speech.

Connectivity and Control

The advent of Bluetooth technology has revolutionised the way users interact with their hearing aids. Bluetooth-enabled devices can connect with compatible smartphones, including both Apple and Android devices. This allows users to control their hearing aid settings directly from their smartphone, providing a level of convenience and customisation that was previously unimaginable.

This connectivity also extends to touch-tone phones. With automatic telephone solutions, hearing aids can adjust their settings to provide an optimal listening experience during phone calls. This ensures that users can communicate effectively, regardless of the environment or the device they are using.

Lifestyle and Invisible Hearing Aids

Invisible hearing aids have become an essential tool for many individuals with hearing loss, seamlessly integrating into various aspects of daily life. These devices offer a range of features that cater to different lifestyle needs, from water-resistant models for active individuals to special features for tinnitus relief.

Perfect Hearing Aid for an Active Lifestyle

For those who lead an active lifestyle, invisible hearing aids can be a game-changer. Certain models are water-resistant, making them suitable for activities such as swimming or jogging in the rain. This means users don’t have to worry about their hearing aids getting damaged by moisture, allowing them to participate fully in their favourite activities.

Invisible Hearing Aids for Tinnitus Relief

Tinnitus, a condition characterised by a constant ringing or buzzing sound in the ears, can be incredibly disruptive. Some invisible hearing aids offer special features designed specifically to provide relief from tinnitus. These features work by generating a sound that masks the tinnitus, helping to divert the user’s attention away from the disruptive noise. This can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals suffering from this condition.

Maintaining Your Invisible Hearing Aid

Maintaining and caring for invisible hearing aids is crucial to ensure their longevity and optimal performance. This involves both daily maintenance routines and regular professional care.

Daily Maintenance

Daily maintenance is a key aspect of hearing aid care. This includes the use of cleaning tools to remove any earwax or debris that may have accumulated on the device. Many hearing aids come with a wax cleaning mechanism, which should be used regularly to prevent wax build-up. It’s also important to store the hearing aids in a dry and clean place when not in use to prevent any damage.

Professional Care

In addition to daily maintenance, regular check-ups with hearing care professionals are essential. These check-ups can help identify and address any ear conditions that may affect the performance of the hearing aid. Furthermore, professionals can perform a deep cleaning of the device and check for any necessary repairs or adjustments.

Enrollment in a maintenance program with your local audiologist can also be beneficial. These programs typically include regular professional cleanings, battery replacements, and minor repairs. This ensures that the hearing aid continues to perform at its best, providing the user with the highest quality of sound.

Making an Informed Decision

Choosing the right hearing aid is a significant decision that can greatly impact one’s quality of life. It’s crucial to make an informed decision, considering various factors such as technology levels, pricing, and personal needs.

Consultation and Evaluation

The first step in making an informed decision is to consult with a hearing care expert. They can provide valuable guidance based on their expertise and understanding of the latest clinical research. It’s also important to evaluate different aspects of potential hearing aids, including their technology levels, pricing, and customer satisfaction ratings.

Choosing the Right Hearing Aid

When choosing a hearing aid, consider your lifestyle, the environments in which you’ll be using the hearing aid and your level of hearing loss. The perfect hearing aid should cater to your daily activities and sound environments, providing a natural hearing experience that meets your needs. Advanced hearing aids with customisable options can offer a tailored solution that enhances your hearing without compromising comfort or discretion.

Interested in Learning More About Invisible Hearing Aids?

Invisible hearing aids offer a discreet hearing solution that can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with hearing loss. With continuous advancements in technology, these devices now come with innovative features that provide a more natural and comfortable hearing experience. However, given the range of options available, it’s crucial to consult with hearing care professionals to find the perfect solution for your specific hearing needs before you buy hearing aids online. Reach out to schedule an online consultation with one of our hearing aid experts to discuss your needs in more detail.