How Technology is Reshaping Life for Hearing Aid Wearers

Technology is constantly redefining what it means to live with hearing aids.

Rechargeable Technology on the Rise

Rechargeable hearing aid batteries typically last 18-24 hours on a full charge, depending on the model. This gives wearers the confidence of knowing they can get continuous use of their devices for the duration of the day and charge them at night.

Rechargeable batteries are also better for the Earth, as estimates show that 1.4 billion disposable hearing aid batteries go into landfills each year. Taking into account the weight of the batteries and packaging, this means that more than 3 million pounds of waste are thrown away annually.

On May 15-16, join Audiology & Hearing Services of Charlotte (11121 Carmel Commons Blvd., Suite 150) for our “Take Charge of Your Hearing Event.” During your appointment, you’ll get a free hearing screening, live demonstration of Phonak’s rechargeable technology and a free 30-day in-home trial evaluation. Call us at (704) 454-3294 to reserve your appointment.

Smartphone Hearing Aids

Manufacturers such as ReSound, Starkey and Oticon have worked with Apple and Android to develop technology that connects your hearing aids to your smartphone.  This capability gives you increasingly personalized control over your hearing, such as:

1. Control hearing aid settings from phone: By connecting to a free app, you can discretely adjust your hearing aids from your phone. You can control volume, programs, treble and bass on your phone.
2. Adjust settings to your favorite spots: No longer do you have to constantly adjust your programs at different locations you frequently visit. The GPS tracking will “remember” certain locations and adjust automatically when you arrive there.
3. Pocket microphone: Smartphone hearing aids let your phone be the microphone. Place the phone between you and the speaker, streaming their voice to your ears. You can also try amplifier apps such as HearYouNow (free, iPhone) or Hearing Aid with Replay (free, Android).

Decibel Sensor Apps

These apps will monitor the volume level in different environments. A study from the Acoustical Society of America determined the best free or low-cost decibel sensor apps. These apps were: SPLnFFT ($3.99, iPhone), Decibel Meter (iPhone, free) and Sound Meter (Android, free).

Hearing Screening Apps

These apps to test your hearing can serve as a first step to test your hearing. If you get a surprising result, schedule an appointment with an audiologist. Popular screening apps include uHear (iPhone, free) and NOWiHEAR (Android, free).