What are the best Hearing Aids?
Hearing devices have come a long way in recent years and continue to improve rapidly. The "best" hearing aids won't be the same for everyone as we all have different hearing and needs. Our Audiologists have plenty of experience with the latest technology and will work within your budget to include the most important features for you. Here are some of the advancements that have been the most popular with Wolfe Hearing clients.
Rechargeability
Rechargeable hearing aids offer unmatched convenience compared to traditional battery-operated models. Users don’t need to frequently replace batteries, which can be costly and cumbersome. Instead, they recharge their devices overnight, ensuring they’re ready for the next day and eliminating the hassle of carrying spare batteries or running out of power unexpectedly. These aids are also environmentally friendly, reducing disposable battery waste. Many models feature practical charging options like portable cases or wireless pads, making them easy to power up anywhere.
Comfort
The "receiver in canal" (RIC) style of hearing aid is now the most popular with users worldwide making up more than 75% of devices purchased. This is due not only to their superior wearing comfort, but also the compact size and discreet look, their durability and water-tightness and ability to pack in the full range of bells and whistles that make your hearing experience better. RIC hearing aids have a very small device behind the ear delivering sound to the speaker in the ear via a thin wire. The parts in the ear canal float using a soft silicone dome which doesn't fully block the ear and allows natural sound and ventilation to enter.
Connectivity
There have been advancements in connectivity features, with many hearing aids now offering seamless integration with smartphones and other devices. Hands free phone calls have never been clearer with audio streaming to both ears. Music enthusiasts and podcast or radio listeners can listen without disturbing others and the TV can be streamed directly to the devices. Smartphone Apps allow users to adjust the devices for top performance and can even measure your steps and alert others if you have a fall
Discretion
If your preference is to have a tiny device tucked out of sight in the ear canal, there are plenty of options available. Along with crystal clear sound there are now also wireless and rechargeable miniature hearing aids if your ear size permits.
Artificial Intelligence
One notable trend is the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning algorithms into hearing aids, allowing for more personalized and adaptive sound processing. These AI-powered hearing aids can analyze environmental sounds in real-time and automatically adjust settings to optimize speech clarity and reduce background noise. For example, in a noisy situation, they learn to identify which voice you are in conversation with and which is your own voice through analysing things like speech patterns, timing, distance and loudness.
Automation and Simplicity
Many of our Wolfe Hearing clients prefer hearing devices that they can put in and forget about. Intelligent processing measures your sound environment automates adjustments to adapt to the situation you are in so there is no need to fiddle with tricky controls. The best technology today mimics your natural hearing and maximises audibility and comfort for a seamless wearing experience. These are the kind of hearing aids you can put in and forget.
What do Hearing Aids cost?
There are such a wide range of hearing aids available that we are able to meet most budgets. Government funding is available to assist NZ residents with affordability. Depending on the funding available to you, you may get hearing aids fully funded. Hearing aids need to be worn in both ears (if your hearing loss is in both ears). For a pair of hearing aids, most of our clients spend $1000-$2000 for the budget friendly ranges, $3000-$5000 for superior technology and $5000 plus on the top technology available today.
Get a free second opinion
At Wolfe Hearing we know how important it is to make the right decisions when purchasing hearing aids. As we work with all brands and models, we can give you unbiased advice on what will best suit your needs and budget. Ask us about a free second opinion. Bring along your hearing test and /or hearing aids and we will provide our advice for free. Please mention "Free second opinion" when booking.