According to Statistics Canada, an estimated 54% of Canadians aged 40-79 have at least mild hearing loss in the high-frequency range. Hearing loss can be caused by several different factors including damage to the ear, disease or infection. However, in many cases, hearing loss is simply age-related. Hearing loss can be challenging to manage, but thanks to the rise of technology, hearing aids continue to become more advanced.

Listening to music with hearing loss

Hearing aids can make listening to music a more enjoyable experience for those who experience hearing loss. With the help of a hearing aid, you might be able to listen to the lyrics more easily or more clearly identify different instruments. Music has a larger range of decibels compared to speech, and it also includes a broader range of frequencies. In the past, hearing aids struggled to support these large ranges. Fortunately, modern hearing aid technology is far more capable of supporting different frequencies and ranges. Let’s explore a few hearing aid options and find out how suitable these are for listening to music. The best types of hearing aid for listening to music

In-the-canal (ITC) Hearing Aids

ITC hearing aids are a great option for listening to music, and for musicians. These headphones can amplify music fairly clearly and minimize distortion. ITC hearing aids are the smallest and most discreet hearing aid on the market, these fit inside the ear canal. Due to their size and fit, it’s easy to use headphones if you need to. Sometimes, this style produces acoustic feedback, however, you can raise this with your audiologist, who can help you to test out a few different brands. These styles are suitable for mild hearing loss, to severe hearing loss.

In-the-ear (ITE) Hearing Aids

In the ear hearing aids sit in the outer bowl. ITE hearing aids work using two microphones and offer excellent sound capabilities. ITE hearing aids are known for their fantastic sound amplification properties and are often recommended for those with severe hearing loss. These slightly larger hearing aids do not produce so much acoustic feedback, and so some people prefer these for listening to music. They aren’t as small as the ITC, but you can still use them easily with headphones. ITE is fitted to block the ear canal, ensuring that the music around you is clear. Generally, these are another good option for listening to music. When you visit your audiologist, they will be able to talk you through the different options for ITE hearing aids.

Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids

Behind the ear hearing aids are a less discreet option these are placed behind your ear. BTE hearing aids do not pick up a sound if played using your headphones. Due to this, they are not always suitable for listening to music or for musicians. While BTE may not be the best option for listening to music, these hearing aids do have a range of benefits. For example, BTE hearing aids have a larger casing, you can fit larger batteries instead, meaning you won’t need to recharge your hearing aid so often.

How to choose the right hearing aid for you

To choose the right hearing aid for you, it’s best to consult your audiologist for help. If you are interested in finding the best hearing aid for listening to music, they can talk you through your choices. Many times, it depends on the brand, as certain hearing aids have special music settings. Hearing aids sometimes try to remove high-frequency noises. The problem can sometimes be solved by switching off the system that reduces acoustic feedback. By doing so, you can still hear high-frequency sounds in music, through your hearing aid. To support those with hearing loss, hearing aids are not the only option. Your audiologist can provide you with additional information about assistive listening devices.

Hearing Wellness Centre

At the Hearing Wellness Centre, we provide audiology services across Windsor-Essex County. Whatever your hearing health needs our skilled team of hearing specialists can help. We provide a wide range of services including evaluation for hearing aids, hearing aid maintenance and repair, custom earmolds and earplugs. Whether you need a hearing test or you are looking for the best style of hearing aids, we are happy to be of assistance. To learn more, call the Hearing Wellness Centre today at (844) 663-9433.