Key Takeaways
- Individuals with severe high frequency hearing loss can wear a CIC
- Individuals with flat, severe hearing loss will not be best fit with a CIC
- Dexterity and ear canal anatomy are also important to consider
As an audiologist with experience in diagnosing and treating hearing impairments, I've witnessed first-hand the challenges faced by those with severe hearing loss. It can be incredibly isolating, impacting every aspect of an individual's life—from personal relationships to professional opportunities. This is why I know it's essential that my patients find exactly the right technology to meet their unique needs.
I understand that each person's situation is different, requiring a thoughtful, personalized approach to their care. In this comprehensive guide, we focus on the specifics of CIC hearing aids, the most discreet and in-ear style of hearing devices, and the models that stand out for those requiring high-performance solutions for their severe hearing impairment.
Severe Hearing Loss - What does it mean?
Severe hearing loss is not one-size-fits-all. It can vary significantly from one individual to another, and understanding the nuances is crucial in providing effective care. If you discover that your hearing loss is severe, you might be wondering what that means.
For many, severe high-frequency hearing loss is the challenge, wherein they find it particularly difficult to hear high-pitched sounds like women's or children's voices, the turn signal in the car, or understand speech clearly, yet they may retain better hearing in the lower frequencies.
So while they may hear soft sounds in their environment (i.e., a refrigerator humming or thunder rumbling), speech clarity remains elusive. You hear people talking but can't understand what they're saying. This type of an audiogram could like something like this:
The right treatment approach will focus on balancing the amplification across different frequencies: a solid boost of the high frequencies but not too much low frequency sound.
Others with severe hearing loss may have a flat, severe hearing loss, characterized by relatively equal reduction in hearing ability across all frequencies. This type of hearing loss requires a more uniform amplification strategy, ensuring that all sounds are amplified appropriately. However, there still needs to be a balance between audibility and comfort (i.e., keeping sound audible but not to the point of discomfort). Here's an example of a flat, severe audiogram:
As you can see, each of these situations requires a different strategy for the optimal outcome.
Selecting the Right Care Model
For individuals with severe hearing loss, choosing the right care model is paramount. You may have come across over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids in your search for hearing solutions. It's important to understand that these devices are designed for individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss.
This means that if your hearing loss is categorized as severe, OTC hearing aids will not provide the level of support you need. In such cases, it's crucial to opt for a more personalized care approach.
Two primary models offer the personalized care necessary for severe hearing loss: in-person care and Telehealth services. In-person care involves direct, face-to-face consultation with an audiologist or hearing specialist. This model allows for an in-depth hearing assessment, tailored fitting sessions, and hands-on support through the adjustment period.
On the other hand, Telehealth services have emerged as a viable alternative, especially for those who may have difficulty accessing in-person care due to location or mobility issues. Telehealth involves remote consultation and support, leveraging technology to provide high-quality care.
Regardless of which model you choose, the goal is to ensure that your hearing aids are properly fitted and tailored to your specific hearing loss profile. A hearing healthcare provider will help you understand your audiogram, select the right hearing aid model, and adjust it to your comfort and needs.
Severe Hearing Loss Demands Precision
Severe hearing loss demands precision in treatment and technology. So, when it comes to selecting a hearing aid for severe hearing loss, what should you look for? Fortunately, technology today allows for a lot of flexibility to fit everyone's needs. Before we jump into the specific types of hearing aids, it's essential to consider all aspects of your lifestyle and how your hearing aid can accommodate that. For instance, if dexterity is a concern due to arthritis or other reasons, you might want to consider a rechargeable device. These types of hearing aids eliminate the need for changing tiny hearing aid batteries, making your life a bit easier.
Furthermore, for those who want to stream audio from their hearing aids, selecting a device with Bluetooth capability is crucial. This feature allows you to stream audio directly from your phone right into your hearing aids, transforming them into a pair of high-quality, wireless earphones. This not only improves audibility for your calls but also integrates seamlessly with your day-to-day activities, ensuring you don't miss a beat.
Is a CIC a good option for severe hearing loss?
So you've got severe hearing loss and are thinking about a discrete hearing aid. Completely-in-Canal (CIC) hearing aids are renown for their nearly invisible and custom-fit designs, but they are a few caveats when selecting this style hearing aid. Let's go through a few points when considering this option:
- hearing loss profile
- anatomy
- ear "real estate"
- dexterity
Hearing Loss Profile
When it comes to matching hearing aids with individual hearing loss profiles, it's crucial to understand that not every style fits every type of hearing loss. Specifically, while a Completely-in-Canal (CIC) hearing aid can often accommodate individuals with severe high-frequency hearing loss, those with a flat, severe hearing loss may find this style less effective. The intricacies of severe high-frequency hearing loss mean that while the lower frequencies remain more intact, it's the high frequencies that need amplification. CIC hearing aids, with their placement deep within the ear canal, can leverage the ear's natural shape to enhance sound directionality and clarity, particularly in the high frequencies.
On the other hand, a flat severe hearing loss, characterized by a uniform reduction across all frequencies, presents a different challenge. The main limitation with CIC aids in this context is their size and power capabilities.
Due to their compact size, fitting the broader range of frequencies with the necessary amplification power may not be feasible without sacrificing sound quality or comfort. In such cases, other styles of hearing aids, which can house more powerful amplifiers and larger batteries, might be more suitable to ensure a balanced and effective hearing improvement across all frequencies.
Thus, understanding your specific hearing loss profile is an indispensable step in selecting a hearing aid that not only fits well but also meets your auditory needs comprehensively.
Anatomy
Anatomy is an important factor to consider when selecting a Completely-in-Canal (CIC) hearing aid. Given their design to fit snugly within the ear canal, the right ear canal size and shape are crucial for a proper fit. Most CIC hearing aids are made from a deep ear impression, and an audiologist will evaluate your ear canal during an in-person visit.
This means that if your ear canal is extremely narrow or has a shape that doesn't accommodate the typical dimensions of a CIC hearing aid, this style might not be suitable for you. An improper fit can not only be uncomfortable but can also affect the performance of the hearing aid, impacting its effectiveness in amplifying sound.
Independent of hearing loss severity, everyone’s ear canal has a different size and shape. Therefore, a thorough examination of your ear canal by a healthcare professional is an essential step in the process of selecting a hearing aid, ensuring that the device you choose is perfectly tailored to your unique anatomical structure.
Ear "Real Estate"
The concept of "ear real estate," or the space available around and behind the ear, presents another compelling rationale for considering a Completely-in-Canal (CIC) hearing aid, especially in the era of Covid-19. During the pandemic, when wearing masks became a ubiquitous necessity, many individuals discovered the practicality of custom, in-canal hearing aids.
This was particularly true for those who also wear glasses or use oxygen masks, where the reduced space behind the ear makes traditional behind-the-ear hearing aids less feasible. Furthermore, individuals with petite ears may find that CIC hearing aids offer a more comfortable and secure fit, avoiding the overcrowding and discomfort that can occur with larger devices.
In these cases, the minimalistic footprint of CIC models can enhance both physical comfort and device usability, providing a compelling option for those prioritizing discreetness and convenience alongside auditory improvement.
Dexterity Considerations
Finally, dexterity is an important consideration when selecting the right hearing aid for individuals with severe hearing loss. If you have trouble manipulating small devices due to conditions such as arthritis, neuropathy, or just general difficulty with fine motor skills, you may want to opt for a larger custom hearing aid.
A rechargeable In-the-Ear (ITE) model is a viable option that tends to be a bit easier to manage. These devices not only reduce the need for handling small batteries – a task that can be frustrating and challenging – but also offer the convenience of not having to replace batteries frequently.
The physical design of ITE hearing aids, being slightly larger and easier to grasp, allows for better handling and overall management of the device. This feature, coupled with the fact that rechargeable models can be placed in a charging dock overnight for hassle-free use throughout the day, makes them an excellent choice for those prioritizing ease of use alongside effective hearing support.
Best CIC Hearing Aids for Severe Hearing Loss
Now that you know what to consider when selecting a Completely-in-Canal (CIC) hearing aid, especially for those with severe hearing loss, we have curated a list of our top picks. These selections are based on their performance, comfort, and innovative features designed to meet the needs of individuals with profound hearing challenges.
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Starkey Genesis AI Custom
Starkey Genesis AI Custom
Starkey is a U.S.-based manufacturer with a full line of hearing aids that includes behind the ear and in-the-ear styles. They make the list for their elite status in custom molded (nearly invisible products). If you can afford to pay medical-grade prices and want an invisible style, you won’t be disappointed by Starkey.
Starkey is known for intelligent features like fitness tracking, a virtual assistant, and the smallest Bluetooth hearing aid on the market.
- Overall Notes: Starkey Genesis AI is broadly considered the best for custom mold hearing aids. If you want a custom mold, and lead an active lifestyle, this product is a great choice.
- Price: The national average price for Starkey Genesis Custom hearing aids is $6,443 per pair. Our research indicates that you can get Starkey Custom devices for as low as $3,198 for a pair. Click here for more on prices.
- Features: Full range of styles and features including Bluetooth, rechargeability, and fitness tracking for larger devices.
- What audiologists say: “Starkey has been making the smallest and best custom hearing aids for decades. Genesis AI is currently the smallest custom device on the market with Bluetooth streaming capabilities.” - Ramsay Poindexter, AuD
Smallest models are almost entirely invisible
Starkey is a leader in comfortable custom molded products
Larger sizes come with Bluetooth streaming and rechargeable batteries
This is a premium device which costs $3,000-$7,000 per pair
Custom molds require additional lead time and replacement time
The smallest version of Starkey Genesis AI customs are not Bluetooth enabled or rechargeable
Phonak custom devices are often applauded for their stylish design aesthetic. If you choose a custom hearing aid from Phonak, you can select an entirely invisible titanium model or an earbud size version that comes with a Bluetooth connection.
Overall Notes: When it comes to top-of-the-line custom molded products, two brands compete for the top spot. Starkey and Phonak. If the winner gets selected on style, then Phonak wins. If you want a custom-molded hearing aid that looks tech-forward and you can swing the price, Phonak Virto Paradise is a fantastic choice.
Price: Starting at $3,850 through Zip Hearing (walk-in prices $6K-$8K)
Features: Phonak Virto hearing aids come in an invisible style (without Bluetooth) and larger half shell size (with Bluetooth)
What audiologists say: “Phonak Virto has an impressive set of features packed into a small, modern aesthetic. Ask your audiologist if it's appropriate for your hearing, but if it is you'll be satisfied.” - Garrett Thompson, AuD
Tiny sized invisible product
Rechargeable and Bluetooth enabled half-shell product
Fully customizable by your hearing professional
Premium price point starting at $3,850
Invisible style requires battery changes every 4-6 days
August 2022, Oticon released the latest operating system across a new line of custom styles called Oticon Own.
The most significant innovation in the new Own hearing aids is the use of deep learning to choose which sounds to amplify.
Oticon built its new operating system by capturing over 12M sounds from everyday environments and using deep learning technology to create a sophisticated sound algorithm that sorts out background noise. Deep learning is the same technology that Google and other tech giants use to process millions of data points and get smarter over time.
The result of all this technology is that new Oticon Own hearing aids require 30% less listening effort than previous generations.
- Overall Notes: Oticon Own is an excellent option if you don't mind changing batteries and want the latest sound processing technology. People love the "open" sound quality, and the smallest sizes are truly invisible in most ears.
- Price: The national average price for Oticon Own custom hearing aids is $7,500 per pair. Our research indicates that you can get Oticon Custom devices for as low as $3,198 for a pair. Click here for more on prices.
- Features: Full range of styles and features including Bluetooth and rechargeability (depending on selected size)
- Oticon Own hearing aids are designed for mild to severe hearing loss, making them a versatile option for many users.
- They are available in IIC and CIC sizes, which are discreet and comfortable to wear.
- They include an optional push button or volume wheel, as well as binaural connection between hearing aids to improve directionality, giving users more control over their hearing aids.
- ITC and Full-Shell sizes allow for Bluetooth connection and telehealth programming after an initial appointment.
- Oticon Own hearing aids are only available through prescription channels, so you'll need to purchase them locally instead of over-the-counter or through telehealth.
- They are a premium-priced product, which may not be affordable for all users.
- Oticon Own does not offer a rechargeable option.
Signia Silk was the hearing aid choice of the late Queen Elizabeth and has been one of the top invisible hearing aids on the market for years. In October 2023, Signia Silk became the market's smallest rechargeable, prescription-programmed hearing aid.
Signia Silk is a tiny, fully customizable hearing aid with a robust set of technologies, including wireless controls via the Signia App, remote programming after your first office visit, and intelligent sound algorithms that sort out background noise.
Signia Silk originally made a name for itself by using what they call Click Sleeves to match the size of your ear canal and make their hearing aids ready to wear. The majority of invisible-style hearing aids require a custom ear imprint. Signia's approach cuts down on prices and wait times.
Now, Signia is back with a complete renovation of their popular Signia Silk. The new Silk Charge&Go IX features a brand-new operating system and, most notably, a rechargeable battery.
- Overall Notes: Signia technology is well regarded by audiologists and hearing aid wearers. Silk isn't the most feature-rich option on the market, but it offers real customization, quality sound, and connection to smartphone volume and program adjustments. Importantly, it is nearly invisible but doesn't require a custom mold and offers rechargeable batteries.
- Price: The national average price for Signia hearing aids is around $4,744 per pair. We've found some national providers with prices as low as $3,198/pair. Click here for more on prices.
- Features: Signia Silk has a few extra features. One is CROS, which is specifically for people with one ear that needs aid and one that does not. This feature allows you to wear a hearing aid in both ears to create a full sound picture. Silk also offers Twin Phone, which is a setting that allows the sound of your phone in one ear to come through in both hearing aids. The Silk IX hearing aids come in simple red and blue colors to make it easy to know which goes in the left and right ear.
- Our Take: If you are on the market for in-the-ear hearing aids and want rechargeable batteries, Signia Silk is in rare company. Eargo (OTC disruptor) is the only other invisible option with rechargeable batteries. Some customers note that custom-molded devices like Starkey Genesis or Oticon Own are a bit more comfortable for all-day wear. Still, those devices require disposable batteries at comparable sizes.
Nearly invisible
Professionally programmed
No custom-mold required
Rechargeable batteries
Premium price point $2,998 - $5,000 for a pair
Requires an in person office visit
No Bluetooth features due to the size
Final Thoughts
Selecting the right hearing aid, especially for those with severe hearing loss, is a nuanced decision that demands a comprehensive understanding of one's own hearing loss profile, lifestyle needs, and personal preferences.
Completely-in-Canal (CIC) hearing aids, known for their discreet design and advanced technological features, offer substantial benefits for individuals with severe high-frequency hearing loss. However, it's equally vital to acknowledge that no single style suits every type of hearing impairment.
Factors such as the nature of the hearing loss, power and amplification needs, as well as personal dexterity in handling the devices, play a pivotal role in determining the best fit. Our exploration through notable CIC models underscores the diversity and advancements in hearing aid technology, aiming to empower individuals with the knowledge and options to enhance their auditory experience effectively.
Through careful consideration and possibly consultation with audiology professionals, one can find a hearing aid that not only meets their hearing needs but also fits seamlessly into their lifestyle, thereby improving overall quality of life.
