Hearing aids are proven to drastically improve hearing by amplifying sounds and reducing background noise. Here’s our pick of the top hearing aids

By Jisha Krishnan

For many, hearing loss is a part and parcel of ageing. Approximately 25 per cent of those aged 65 to 74 years and 50 per cent of those who are 75 years and older experience hearing loss. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), around 466 million people worldwide have disabling hearing loss, of which 34 million are children. The prevalence is greatest in South Asia, Asia Pacific and sub-Saharan Africa.

Studies show that people with hearing loss are prone to chronic health conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, dementia and clinical depression. The challenge is to identify the gradual loss of hearing in time and take timely remedial action. Hearing aids are proven to drastically improve hearing by amplifying sounds and reducing background noise.

Thanks to technology, today’s digital hearing aids, unlike erstwhile analog varieties, are smarter and sleeker than ever before. Based on one’s specific hearing loss, needs, lifestyle and budget, one can choose from the several available choices. Before making the purchase, it is prudent to consult with your ear, nose, and throat doctor (ENT). Also, read up on the pros and cons of the different styles of hearing aids: in-the-canal (ITC), in-the-ear (ITE), behind-the-ear (BTE), receiver-in-canal (RIC), receiver-in-the-ear (RITE), invisible-in-canal (IIC), completely-in-canal (CIC), mini-in-canal (MIC).

Here’s our pick of the top hearing aids:

Widex
A renowned brand from Denmark, Widex offers a wide variety of smart hearing aids for adults and children with BTE and ITE models. The biggest USP is the exceptional sound in a wide range of environments and the ability to effortlessly distinguish between conversations and background noise.
Understanding that hearing aids are not one-size-fits-all, the emphasis is on user-led adjustments and settings. Using 3D laser modelling, the brand creates a customised hearing aid specifically designed for each user’s ear. Most of their devices are iPhone compatible; Bluetooth compatibility is not a given though, as they connect through inhouse technology called WidexLink.

Eargo
For those with mild to moderate hearing loss, Eargo’s virtually invisible ITE models are the best bet. As FDA-registered Class 1 medical device, the rechargeable hearing aids with patented silicone flexes allow for a more secure and breathable fit.

Eargo’s compact charging case automatically charges the state-of-the-art device. It is also Bluetooth-enabled, allowing one to easily change the user settings and create custom audio profiles while charging. What’s more, users have access to Eargo’s team of audiologists and licensed hearing professionals. Also, the Eargo app provides answers to almost all the hearing-related questions that one may have.

Phonak
An industry leader in the development of hearing solutions for children, Switzerland-based Phonak offers more than 20 premium rechargeable hearing aids in ITE, BTE, RIC and RITE models with a variety of wireless accessories. Phonak also offers a Call-to-Text app, which writes out in real-time – like subtitles – on your phone what the caller is saying, including translations from more than 80 languages.
The LyricTM model is renowned as the first 100 per cent invisible hearing aid that can be worn 24/7 for months, while the all-in-one Marvel range boasts of an unparalleled Bluetooth connectivity that guarantees seamless user experience.

Starkey
The US-based hearing solutions company credited with the creation of the first custom ITC hearing aid, Starkey has led the evolution of the hearing aid into a multi-purpose healthcare device. With the use of sensors, artificial intelligence and cutting-edge technology, Starkey Livio AI monitors varied aspects of the user’s health. The ear is, indeed, the new wrist!
Armed with hi-tech features such as fall detection and real-time language translation to working with remote accessories to improve one’s listening experience and offering tinnitus maskers, Starkey’s current capabilities are unmatched. The rechargeable hearing aid also has a heart rate monitoring feature.

Oticon
Denmark-based Oticon taps into the power of the latest technologies to create optimal hearing solutions, even for those with severe hearing loss. Oticon’s Opn is (ITE model) designed to highlight speech and good sound quality in any environment, while Siya (ITE and BTE models) combines clear sound with wireless connectivity. And then, there’s Dynamo, creating a clear speech experience for those with profound hearing loss.
Oticon offers traditional and rechargeable batteries, along with TV adaptor, a connect clip that turns the hearing aids into headphones and streams conversations or music direct to the devices and an app for full control of the hearing aids. The dedicated app, powered by the Internet of Things, can be programmed to notify users when the doorbell rings, for instance, making life a lot simpler.