RECEIVER IN THE EAR: WHAT ARE THE TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCES ?

Why is it important to correct hearing impairments?

The danger of hearing loss

It’s a health problem that’s far too often neglected, despite its repercussions being far from harmless. Studies reveal that most people who suffer from mild to moderate hearing loss don’t even realize it. In 2013, audiometric tests revealed that more than 3 million Canadians have a hearing disorder. According to the Canadian Health Measures Survey (CHMS), 20% of adults between the ages of 19 and 79 suffer from a hearing impairment in at least one ear.

Depression, reduced mobility and employment opportunities, social isolation, delayed language development, functional limitations, and learning disabilities in class are all negative effects of hearing impairment. To remedy this, modern hearing aids are combined with different adaptable programs to suit every need.

In-ear devices

These hearing prostheses appear in the form of an earpiece that’s inserted into the ear canal (either visible or invisible, depending on the model) for discreet, practical use. They’re made to measure from an impression of the user’s ear. The casing should perfectly fit the shape of the ears and the ear canal so that the device is stable and pleasant to wear.

The different available models

1/ In-the-ear : Placed in the visible area of the ear canal, this device – while larger compared to other devices – offers great performance (for moderate to severe hearing loss) and practical features such as volume control, automatic telecoil, Bluetooth connectivity (remote control), and a directional microphone, as well as interactive programs, depending on the integrated technology. The size of these devices may be perceived as a disadvantage, but in reality, it makes them easier to handle and maintain – especially since in-the-ear models now come in all the desired nuances and can therefore go unnoticed.

2/ In-the-canal : This model nestles in the entrance to the ear canal and is therefore more discreet than the previous model. It offers the same features as the in-the-ear solution, including customizable programs that let you interact with the external environment. This model corrects mild to moderate hearing impairments.

3/ CIC or peritympanic : An even more discreet, almost invisible device, the peritympanic hearing aid is much lighter and is positioned directly inside the ear canal. Despite its reduced size, it often offers the same capabilities as the other two devices (program choice, etc.), except that its battery is smaller. It therefore has a shorter battery life. It’s particularly suitable for those who suffer from a moderate hearing disorder and for whom aesthetic appearance is an important selection criterion.

Four technology levels

Depending on the needs of the hearing-impaired people and the seriousness of their hearing loss, Les Centres Masliah offer 4 different comfort levels:

Basic (4 to 6 channels) : This technology with standard settings improves hearing and reduces noise, for pleasant use in relatively quiet environments.

Intermediate (10 to 12 channels) : Better sound quality and active noise reduction, for pleasant listening even in relatively noisy settings. The device can also be adjusted more flexibly.

Advanced (16 channels) : A clearer, effortless listening experience thanks to smart sound analysis, speech processing, and reduction of background noises such as impact resonances. The adjustment possibilities are much more extensive.

Premium (20+ channels) : The latest hearing aids benefit from revolutionary technology offering optimal sound quality, even in very noisy environments. Their noise reducers are both flexible and precise. They easily identify ambient noises and automatically reduce them. In addition, they reproduce speech just like the human ear would do.

Whatever your needs with respect to your leisure time or the professional environment in which you operate, you’re sure to find an effective and practical hearing solution suited to your case thanks to the choice of combinations offered by modern in-ear hearing aids.

*An evaluation should be done by your hearing care professional to determine if the illustrated model is suitable for your needs

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Aimé Masliah