Understanding Hearing Aids, Their Use, and Proper Care for Long-Lasting Benefits
Hearing aids are remarkable devices that help individuals with hearing loss experience the world of sound again. The Government of India, through the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan), provides free or subsidized hearing aids under various welfare schemes. To get the most out of a hearing aid, it’s essential to understand its types, how it works, and how to maintain it properly.
🦻 Types of Hearing Aids
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Pocket Model Hearing Aid
Worn in a pocket or a harness around the chest, this type contains the microphone, amplifier, and controls. A cord connects it to a receiver fitted into a custom ear mould that transmits the amplified sound to the ear. -
Behind-The-Ear (BTE)
This popular style is worn behind the ear and connected to a custom earmould via plastic tubing. BTE aids are durable, suitable for all ages, and available in various power levels for mild to profound hearing loss. -
In-The-Ear (ITE)
The entire hearing aid fits within the outer ear or ear canal. It is custom-made from an ear impression and is discreet and convenient, though not ideal for young children or those with severe hearing loss. -
Spectacle Type
Designed for individuals who wear glasses, these hearing aids are built into the spectacle frame—combining vision and hearing correction into one device. -
Bone Conduction (BC) Hearing Aid
Ideal for individuals with blocked ear canals or conditions where conventional aids cannot be used. The sound is transmitted through vibrations via a bone vibrator placed behind the ear on the mastoid bone.
💰 Cost Range of Different Hearing Aids (Approximate)
| Type | Description | Cost (₹ per piece) |
|---|---|---|
| Body level | Traditional pocket models | 900 – 9,900 |
| BTE (Non-programmable) | Behind-the-ear | 4,000 – 20,500 |
| Spectacle type | Built into eyeglass frame | 14,000 – 17,500 |
| ITE (Non-programmable) | In-the-ear | 8,000 – 13,200 |
| ITC (Non-programmable) | In-the-canal | 8,500 – 20,000 |
| CIC (Non-programmable) | Completely in the canal | 9,500 – 21,000 |
💡 Note: Digital hearing aids offer advanced features and superior sound quality but are more expensive.
🔋 Hearing Aid Batteries
| Type | Average Life | Cost (₹ per piece) | Replacement Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pen torch cell (body aids) | 100 hrs | ₹7 | Weekly |
| Button cell (standard) | 300 hrs | ₹30–₹50 | Twice a month |
| 675 (high power) | 330 hrs | ₹40 | Weekly |
| 312 (ITE) | 285–330 hrs | ₹40 | Weekly |
| 13 (Zinc-Air) | 288 hrs | ₹40 | Every 4–5 days |
🧼 Care and Maintenance of Hearing Aids
Proper care ensures long life and consistent performance of your hearing aid.
✅ Daily Tips:
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Keep the device dry and free from dust.
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Never drop or spill liquids on the hearing aid.
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Remove the battery when not in use.
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Clean earmoulds regularly — never wash the receiver with water.
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Avoid high heat or direct sunlight exposure.
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Store in a protective case when not in use.
🔍 Common Troubleshooting Tips
If there is no sound:
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Check if the battery is drained or inserted incorrectly.
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Clean the earmould — it may be blocked by earwax.
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Inspect cords and connections.
If sound is distorted:
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Replace low batteries.
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Ensure tubing is not twisted or cracked.
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Clean the earmould or consult a technician for electronic faults.
If feedback (whistling) occurs:
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Refit the earmould properly.
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Reduce volume slightly.
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Replace cracked receivers or loose moulds.
⚠️ Do not attempt to repair your hearing aid yourself. Always visit a qualified audiologist or authorized service technician.
🦷 Ear Mould Care
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Wash earmoulds in soapy water and dry completely before use.
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Replace earmoulds if they become loose or cause feedback.
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Avoid pressing the mould too tightly onto the receiver.
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For children, replace earmoulds every 4–6 months to match ear growth.
📡 Assistive Listening Devices
Beyond hearing aids, various technologies enhance hearing in specific situations:
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Induction Loop Systems – Installed in public places (e.g., railway stations), these transmit sound directly to hearing aids on ‘T’ mode.
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FM Systems – Ideal for classrooms or meetings; transmit clear sound directly from the speaker’s microphone to the listener’s receiver.
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Infrared Systems – Convert sound into infrared light for transmission, often used in TV listening setups.
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Telecommunication Aids – Include text telephones, amplified handsets, and induction loop phones for easier communication.
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Signal/Alerting Devices – Convert sounds (doorbells, alarms, baby cries) into vibrations or flashing lights.
☀️ Solar Battery Charger for Hearing Aids
Developed under a government-funded project by Ali Yavar Jung National Institute of Speech and Hearing Disabilities (Divyangjan), the Solar Photovoltaic Battery Charger provides an eco-friendly solution for charging hearing aid batteries.
It includes:
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Solar charger unit
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Two rechargeable Nickel–Cadmium batteries (lifespan: up to 4 years)
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AYJNISHD logo certified
This innovation ensures rural and remote users can power their hearing aids without depending on electricity — promoting accessibility and sustainability.
👩⚕️ Final Advice from Audiologists
Selecting the right hearing aid depends on your type of hearing loss, lifestyle, and budget. Always undergo a hearing evaluation and trial before purchase. Proper fitting, auditory training, and regular maintenance are key to long-term success.
📞 Need Help Choosing or Maintaining a Hearing Aid?
Visit your nearest VR Speech and Hearing Clinic Visit Nearest branch for a free consultation and hearing aid trial.
We provide digital hearing aids, custom earmoulds, and complete aftercare support for all age groups.