What is the best hearing aid for a child?

What is the best hearing aid for a child? Dr. Donald Schum talks about Oticon’s paediatric mission. More about Donald J. Schum (PhD in audiologist) After graduating from the University of Illinois in …

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What is the best hearing aid for a child?

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When choosing a hearing aid for a child, it’s essential to consider their unique needs and comfort. Here are some options to explore:

1. Behind-the-Ear (BTE):
   • BTE hearing aids are often the best fit and quality for babies and children.
   • They sit behind the ear and have a tube that connects to a custom earmold or a dome that fits inside the ear canal.
   • BTE aids are durable, easy to handle, and can accommodate different ear sizes.
   • They offer features like directional microphones to enhance speech clarity in noisy environments¹.
2. In-the-Ear (ITE):
   • ITE hearing aids fit larger ears, making them suitable for older children or young adults.
   • These aids are more discreet but may have components removed to make them smaller, potentially affecting features.
   • Whistling may be more common with ITE hearing aids¹.
3. Receiver-in-the-Ear (RITE):
   • RITE hearing aids combine features of BTE and ITE styles.
   • They have a small casing behind the ear and a thin wire connecting to a receiver (speaker) in the ear canal.
   • RITE aids provide good sound quality and are suitable for active children².
4. Safety Considerations:
   • Since hearing aids are small, think about safety, especially for young children.
   • Look for aids with:
     • A secure battery door
     • Lockable or deactivated volume controls
     • Secure ear hooks (to prevent choking hazards)
   • Consider your child’s age, hearing loss type, goals, and ability to manage the aids¹.
5. Cochlear Implants:
   • For severe to profound sensorineural hearing loss, cochlear implants may be an alternative solution.
   • Eligibility is determined individually by a team of medical professionals.
   • Cochlear implants can significantly improve speech and language skills in eligible children¹.

Remember, each child’s needs are unique, so consult with an audiologist to determine the best hearing aid based on their specific situation¹³⁴.