ADVANCES IN HEARING AID TECHNOLOGY: IMPROVING LIVES FOR THE HEARING IMPAIRED
Hearing aids are becoming increasingly popular as a solution for those with hearing loss. With the aging population, the demand for hearing aids is expected to increase in the coming years. Advances in technology have made hearing aids more powerful, smaller, and easier to use. There are two main types of hearing aids: behind-the-ear ( BTE ) and in-the-ear (ITE). BTE hearing aids are worn behind the ear and have a small tube that connects to an earpiece that sits inside the ear canal. ITE hearing aids are worn inside the ear canal and are custom-made to fit the individual’s ear. Recent developments in hearing aid technology have led to the development of “smart” hearing aids. These devices are capable of connecting to smartphones and other devices, allowing the user to control the hearing aid through an app. They can also adjust to different listening environments, such as a noisy restaurant or quiet office. Another recent development in hearing aid technology is the use of artificial