Hearing Aid Accessories: What You Need to Know

Historically, hearing aids were strictly medical devices. Manufacturers built them to look clinical, prioritizing features and components over aesthetics. However, that’s beginning to change. Like other electronic devices, hearing aids are becoming more fashionable. Patients are accessorizing their units and turning them into something inherently fun.

This trend is occurring because of the lingering stigma associated with hearing aids. Many people view these devices as big, bulky and distinctly unfashionable. Accessorizing addresses disrupts this perception head-on, celebrating these devices for the enormous quality of life benefits they offer. Hearing aid accessories can also bring additional benefits. For example, some additions can make them easier to care for and prolong their lifespan and quality.

If you wear hearing aids and want to learn more about accessories for them, talk with your audiologist. Here, we discuss some of the most common hearing aid accessories and what makes them uniquely popular.

Wireless Accessories

Like other modern electronic devices, hearing aids are becoming more interconnected. Manufacturers are imbuing them with the ability to communicate wirelessly with other objects in the house, enhancing their functionality. These days, you can hook them up to your:

• TV
• Phone
• Computer
• Smartphone
• Doorbell

It’s all possible because of Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and frequency modulated (FM) radio technology. Numerous on-device receivers let wearers pipe sounds directly from other objects in their homes, eliminating the need to go through the microphone and enhancing sound quality substantially. Wireless accessories improve the listening experience and reduce unwanted interference that can make it more challenging to identify what you are hearing.

If you want to, you can take it a step further by using accessories to control your hearing aids. Many devices come with the ability to adjust settings and monitor performance remotely through a tablet.

Tubing

Tubing refers to the thin plastic tubes that connect the behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aid to the earmold or dome. This component can wear out over time, affecting sound quality. Replacing it with something customized or brightly colored keeps it in good working order and makes the hearing aid look cool at the same time. If you notice that your tubing is wearing out talk with your audiologist about changing this integral part.

Wax Guards

You can also accessorize your hearing aid with wax guards. These are small filters that prevent earwax from entering the hearing aid speaker or microphone. Most manufacturers supply units with wax guards already installed. However, you can swap them out to customize your device and keep sound quality high.

Your wax guard may require replacement if:

• You notice a decrease in volume or clarity.
• It is broken and allowing wax and other detritus to enter your device.

Domes

Another cool way to accessorize your hearing aid is with domes – the soft silicone tips that attach to the end of your hearing aid tubing or receiver. These come in various shapes and sizes to fit your ear canal and offer a comfortable seal. They help prevent feedback and wax buildup and improve sound quality.

These days, you can speak to your audiologist about customizing your dome to better suit your style. Various colors and patterns are available, changing your hearing aid’s style and letting you match it with your outfit. As a general rule, you should replace your domes every few months and keep them clean and hygienic.

Cleaning Products

Lastly, you might want to grab some brushes, wipes, sprays and cleaning kits to help keep your hearing aids clean and free from dirt, moisture and bacteria. These can reduce the risk of infections and malfunctions. Ensure you clean your hearing aids daily with a soft cloth and brush. You can usually source suitable products through your audiologist to recommend the clearing materials you should use.

You might also want to invest in a dehumidifier for your hearing aids. These special devices remove all moisture from the external and internal surfaces, preventing corrosion and helping the unit to last longer. They are highly effective. Ultimately, the hearing aid accessories you choose will vary depending on the brand, model and type of hearing aid you own. Always consult your audiologist before buying any accessories to ensure they are compatible with your device and diagnosis.

Choosing the right accessories can extend the life of your device, make it more comfortable and improve aesthetics. To learn more about the hearing aids available and which is the best for you, get in touch with Gavin Audiology and Hearing Aids or schedule an appointment by calling us today at (914) 610-3440.