Finding The Right Hearing Solution: Why Details Matter
When it comes to hearing, the smallest details can make the biggest difference. In the UK, most patients and audiologists have access to only a limited selection of hearing technologies. While these options work for some, “one size fits all” simply doesn’t apply when it comes to truly improving how we hear.
A Manchester University study revealed a worrying reality: 20% of people with hearing aids never wear them, and 30% only use them occasionally. That leaves just half wearing them regularly — meaning millions of people who sought help aren’t hearing anywhere near as well as they could. This is a waste of both human potential and valuable healthcare resources.
The success of a hearing solution depends on how well it is chosen, tailored, and fitted. At Optimal Hearing in Syston, we take into account a wide range of factors. This article gives you a flavour of some of the considerations:
Prescription & Hearing Needs
Severity and pattern of hearing loss across different frequencies
Measured ability to distinguish speech in background noise
Loudness tolerance and listening comfort
Cause of hearing loss (e.g. nerve damage, wear and tear, noise damage, injury, surgery or a combination of factors)
One ear (monaural) or both ears (binaural)
Whether additional wireless microphones or assistive listening devices would help
Your hearing prescription determines the acoustic requirements of your solution. Correction strategy, electronic components and sound pathways must be selected and fine-tuned to deliver accurate correction while keeping sound as natural as possible.
Physical Characteristics
Outer ear shape and ear canal size
Compatibility with glasses
Dexterity and ease of handling
The way sound behaves in the individual ear canals
Lifestyle & Technology Level
Not everyone needs the most advanced — or most expensive — device to get excellent results. While higher-end options often improve speech clarity and comfort in noise, the perfect match can also depend on your routine:
Do you spend time in busy environments like cafés or meetings?
How often do you move between quiet and noisy spaces?
Would advanced speech or noise processing features be of benefit. Would advanced automation, artificial intelligence or motion sensors make a difference? Would these features actually be utilised in practice?
Personal Preferences
Size, colour, and visibility preferences
Smartphone or tablet compatibility and connectivity needs
Dexterity and any handling or practical requirements
Familiarity with previous devices
Desired level of control over settings
Style & Design
Hearing solutions come in thousands of variations — in-the-ear, behind-the-ear, or hybrid designs. They can be discreet and invisible, or feature more components, technologies and power. Rechargeable or battery-operated, slim and curved or compact and functional — the choice depends on your prescription, comfort, and lifestyle.
It’s important to remember that the latest releases and features aren’t always the best choice. New models can lack proven features or need time to mature.
At Optimal Hearing, we believe no two people’s hearing journeys are the same. By combining the right technology with meticulous measurement and programming, expert fitting and ongoing care, we ensure your solution works with you, your ears, and your life so it’s not just worn, but truly valued and helping you hear as well as possible.