Hearing aids have been used for decades to help those who are hard of hearing experience the world around them better. The first design was developed in the 1987. It was bulky and many patients did not like using them. Over the next 20 years, technological advancements have changed the way people hear. New technology has led to some of the best and most discrete hearing aids available.

The first hearing aids were analog. Analog technology converts sound using electrical signals. This means that they were designed with different settings to be used in different environments. The patient was able to wear the device as needed and change the frequency to best suit the noise around them. These models were programmable and would be programmed by the audiologist based on the sound test performed for the patient.

Digital hearing aids have since come on the market and feature the most recent technological and medical advancements. They are increasing in popularity and feature designs that are sleek, discrete and comfortable to wear. Digital technology utilizes numeric codes to determine the loudness and pitch of a noise that is around the wearer. It automatically adjusts accordingly to amplify the sounds that it needs to for the listener. These devices are programmed to a set range of frequencies based on the audiologist findings. The best part about these models is that they offer less feedback and interference then analog when the wearer is close to an object.

Digital hearing aids come in three different styles - behind the ear, in-ear and canal. The behind the ear model wraps around and over top of the ear to rest inside the ear but be securely in place. The in ear model is made of hard plastic and is designed to fit inside the outer ear. The canal model is small and flexible. It is designed to rest inside the ear canal. Canal models are the most discreet on the market, as you can't even tell when a person is wearing them.

One important thing to note is that most insurance companies do not provide coverage for digital hearing aids. This is unfortunate, as they can cost several thousands of dollars for just one device. Many patients can take advantage of non-profit companies that help cover the cost of hearing aids. There are few select situations where an insurance company will cover the cost of a device, so be sure to check with your agent to see if you qualify. A Hearing Specialist can guide you through the process for the best outcome to fit your needs.

Digital hearing aids have been designed to make life easier for those who suffer from hearing loss. There are many steps involved with getting them, but the first step is to speak to ear, nose and throat specialist in your area as they will have qualified audiologists who can answer any questions you have or schedule you for a hearing exam.

Hopefully as technology continues to advance and the need for hearing aids continues to increase, health insurance companies will provide coverage for those with hearing impairment. Like all things of this nature, it takes time. In the meantime an audiologist can direct you to various non-profit organizations that will assist and possibly cover the complete cost of needed aids.