Deafness is gradually becoming a very prevalent problem and one that poses serious constraints to an individual’s life. It has an impact on one’s ability to relate academically and socially, and even on his or her health. Fortunately, there has been a rapid technological development in hearing aids; thus, they are not only better in performance but also affordable. The equipment is sensitive, affordable, and available in almost all of Melbourne, which itself is a famous city of culture and healthy life with marvellous healthcare services. In this article, we will also describe various types of hearing aids found in the Melbourne market, their prices, and offer guidelines on where you will know how hearing loss can affect your life.
Understanding the Types of Hearing Aids
Hearing aids are available in different types, and one needs to choose depending on the type of hearing loss of an individual. Below are some of the common types offered in Melbourne:
1. Behind-the-Ear (BTE) Hearing Aids
Description: These are the customary kind of hearing aids and they are also the smallest. They are made of a small case that fits behind the ear and is fitted with an earmold or custom-built earpiece through a tubing channel.
Applicable To: Use of this product is recommended to all individuals, especially those with severe hearing impairment.
Advantages: Usually have greater output capability and can include such extra elements as telecoils and directional mikes.
2. In-the-Ear (ITE) and In-the-Canal (ITC) Hearing Aids
Description: They are usually made in the mould of the ears, which means that they are only available in ear shape. ITE devices fit into the outer ear canal all over, whereas ITC aids fit partly in the canal.
– Best for: Mild to severe hearing loss.
Advantages: The opposite of BTE aids—less noticeable and comfortable; it can also be customised to match one’s appearance.
3. Completely-In-Canal (CIC) and Invisible-In-Canal (IIC) Hearing Aids
Definition: These are mini types of hearing aids that are usually fitted in the ear canal.
Summary: Pure-tone audiometry: hearing loss can be detected even with a mild level or moderate level of hearing loss.
Advantages: They are small and unobtrusive and can, therefore, go unnoticed by other people.
4. Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) Hearing Aids
Description: Same as BTE aids but it has a thin cord that transmits the sound to the ear canal, thus giving a natural sound.
– Best for: Mild to severe hearing loss.
Advantages: Hidden from plain sight as compared to BTE aids and comfortable to wear at the same time.
5. Bone-Anchored Hearing Aids (BAHA)
Definition: These are devices that are inserted into the body and help to transmit sound via the bones leading to the inner ear.
Ideal for: Suitable for those with conductive hearing loss, hearing loss in one ear and hearing loss with a combination of both.
Some of the features include avoiding all the outer and the middle part of the ear so as to deliver sound clearer.
Hearing Aid Prices in Melbourne
Like any other product, hearing aid prices in Melbourne may differ due to various factors, including style and brand, additional features, and the fact that they may be customised for the user. Here’s a general overview:
Basic BTE Hearing Aids: These hearing aids cost as low as $1000 and as much as $3000 per unit.
ITE and ITC Hearing Aids: The cost is between $2,000 and $4,000 for each hearing aid device.
CIC and IIC Hearing Aids: Range from $3,000 to $5,000 per unit since they are built to fit the shape of the ear canal and are advanced.
RIC Hearing Aids: RIC is less expensive than BTE and the prices are from $2500 to $5000 for one device, considering the features.
BAHA Systems: They are relatively costly and the cost could be between five thousand and ten thousand US dollars for the BAHA system, inclusive of the surgical part.
One has to remember that there are options such as Bluetooth, newly replaceable batteries, and built-in equalisers that might affect the final price of the headphones. Further, most of the audiologists in Melbourne provide health care payment plans or payment schemes for hearing aids.
Where to Buy Hearing Aids in Melbourne
Australia has many experienced audiologists and hearing centres through which one can buy a hearing aids in Melbourne. Here are some proposals for reference:
1. Audiologists and Hearing Centres
To sum up, Hearing Concepts Australia is known for its individual approach to customers and a great choice of hearing aids.
Sound Health Australia Honeygold: An assiduous hearing aid provider that comprises hearing tests and the latest hearing aids.
Hearing Australia: Offers hearing services and assists Australians who have hearing impairment.
2. Retail Chains and Online Stores
Boots Hearing Care: A web-based platform that provides a wide selection of hearing aids with the possibility to purchase products online and get consultation in the store.
eHears: An online marketplace where one can shop for hearing aids from various providers.
3. Pharmacies
Currently, most of the local pharmacies in Melbourne are associated with hearing care solutions selling hearing aids.
Conclusion
Hearing impairment is a life-changing event that constantly impacts one’s ability to interact with society and his or her quality of life; however, through a properly functioning hearing aid, society may again recover his or her ability to communicate effectively. One will find an array of hearing aids in Melbourne that are available for use depending on the condition of the patient and the amount of money he or she is willing to spend. Thus, when it is a case of choosing between an IIC model or a more commanding BTE model, it is always wise to consult an audiologist in rehabilitating your hearing loss.
It is important to comprehend that a hearing aid is not only a way to improve your hearing but it can also dramatically change your quality of life and ability to actively participate in social interactions. Choose your best choice in Melbourne and get the start to a new hearing experience now.
