Types

• There are three types of technology used in hearing aids today: conventional analog, analog programmable and digital programmable.
  
  

Identification

• Conventional analog aids are set to respond to a particular sound frequency determined by an audiologist. For an analog programmable unit, the audiologist will pre-set several levels of amplification. Digital programmable hearing aids use digitized sound processing to differentiate between speech and noise.
  
  

Benefits

• Conventional analog hearing aids amplify all sounds equally, which can be a problem in a noisy environment. Analog programmable aids allow the user to push a button and change to an amplification that improves hearing in a particular setting. Digital programmable hearing aids modify signals to reduce distortion from unwanted noise.
  
  

Considerations

• Digital programmable hearing aids are best for modifying sounds to match a person's specific hearing impairment but are the most expensive. Many people are happy with less expensive conventional or programmable analog hearing aids.
  
  

Tips

• It's important to select an audiologist certified by the American-Speech-Language Association to ensure you have the right hearing aid for your lifestyle.