This is so the hearing aid will be shaped to fit that person. Once the hearing aid is made the individual will be called back to hospital to have it fitted and to be given any advice. This process, however, may take up to two years depending on the local health authority. .
Hearing aids are machines that amplify and clarify sound waves so that individuals can hear and understand sounds. The microphone in the hearing aid receives the sound waves and translates them into electrical impulses which the amplify makes stronger. The earphone translates the much stronger electrical impulses back into sound waves, which, by this stage louder and clearer. These sound waves then travel to the brain in the usual way. (www.rnid.org.uk).
There is a large variety in designs and strengths of hearing aids in order to meet individual needs. .
Behind the ear hearing aids are worn behind the earlobe with a mould, which fits into the ear. There are a variety of models depending on the severity of the hearing loss. The NHS most commonly provides these.
In the ear hearing aids are much smaller and fit in the ear. These are less noticeable and are therefore favoured by those who wish to disguise their hearing aid. These can cost anywhere in the region of £300 - £2500. (www.rnid.org.uk).
A body worn hearing aid is worn either clipped to clothing or in a clothing pocket. These are connected to an earphone through a cord. The earphone fits into an ear mould, which fits in the ear. These hearing aids suit an individual with severe hearing loss, as they are very powerful. .
Bone conducting hearing aids are disguised in glasses. These work in a similar way to a hearing aid, however vibrations are sent through the arm of the glasses to a bone on the inside of the head. These vibrations are then translated into sound waves. These are only available from private dispensers and therefore can be expensive.
Because of the variations in style and strength hearing aids can meet the needs of individuals in two ways.
