Bluetooth Hearing Aids - The Wireless Connectivity Revolutionizing Hearing Care
Bluetooth hearing aids are revolutionizing the hearing industry. With the ability to wirelessly stream audio directly into your hearing aids, Bluetooth models offer convenience and connectivity like never before.
In this comprehensive guide, learn what Bluetooth hearing aids are, their key benefits, how to connect devices, top brand models to consider, costs, and everything else you need to know to decide if these wireless wonders are right for you.
What Are Bluetooth Hearing Aids?
Bluetooth hearing aids integrate Bluetooth wireless technology to stream audio from smartphones, TVs, and other media devices directly into your hearing aids.
Instead of simply amplifying sounds around you like regular hearing aids, Bluetooth enabled models allow you to receive audio input wirelessly from external sources.
This transforms your hearing aids into customizable wireless headphones!
The Benefits of Bluetooth Hearing Aids
Upgrading to Bluetooth hearing aids offers many advantages:
- Answer phone calls through hearing aids
- Stream music, podcasts, audiobooks, GPS directions
- Watch TV or movies wirelessly
- Hear better in noisy environments by isolating primary audio
- Discreet and hands-free use of electronic devices
- Less feedback and whistling from improved wireless streaming
- Adjust settings and personalizations wirelessly through apps
Bluetooth integration provides convenience, clarity and customization not possible with traditional hearing aids.
How Bluetooth Hearing Aids Connect Wirelessly
Bluetooth hearing aids connect directly to Bluetooth-enabled electronic devices like:
- Smartphones
- Tablets
- Computers
- TVs (with Bluetooth transmitter accessory)
- MP3 players
- E-readers like Kindle
Once paired, audio streams wirelessly from the device directly into your ears through the hearing aids.
Range is typically 20-30 feet allowing freedom of movement. Some models even allow pairing between hearing aids to stream audio in stereo.
The Different Classes of Bluetooth Hearing Aids
Bluetooth versions indicate capabilities and performance. Like other wireless tech, hearing aid Bluetooth has evolved through different classes:
- Bluetooth Classic: The original technology, now called Bluetooth Classic. Limited wireless functionality.
- Bluetooth 2.4GHz: Faster data transfer for improved audio quality and range. Becoming standard.
- Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE): Latest version optimized specifically for hearing aids. Enables advanced features with minimal battery drain.
Look for the latest Bluetooth version available to maximize wireless functionality and connectivity.
The Best Bluetooth Hearing Aid Models and Brands
Many hearing aid manufacturers now offer Bluetooth models. Here are some of the top Bluetooth hearing aids on the market:
Phonak Audo Paradise
- Bluetooth BLE connectivity
- Water and dust resistant
- Rechargeable lithium-ion battery
- Compatible with iOS and Android
- Multifunction push button
- Adapts to over 300 real-life listening environments
ReSound ONE
- 2.4GHz Bluetooth
- Direct stereo streaming from iOS devices
- All day battery life
- Adjust via ReSound Smart 3D app
- Advanced environmental optimization
Starkey Livio Edge AI
- BLE Bluetooth connectivity
- Integrated sensors and artificial intelligence
- Fall detection and alerts
- Thrive virtual assistant
- Translation in 27 languages
- Easily pairs with electronic devices
Oticon More
- 2.4GHz Bluetooth dual streaming
- Fast connectivity and minimal lag time
- BrainHearing technology
- Rechargeable lithium-ion battery
- Adjust via Oticon ON app
Signia Pure Charge&Go X
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Lithium-ion rechargeable battery
- Water and dust resistant
- Own Voice Processing (OVP)
- Signia app for adjustments
Consult a hearing professional to determine which make and model best suits your needs and lifestyle.
Bluetooth Hearing Aid Connectivity with Smartphones and TVs
Two of the most popular uses for Bluetooth hearing aids are streaming from smartphones and TVs. Here is how to enable connectivity:
Connecting to Smartphones
To pair your Bluetooth hearing aids with a smartphone:
- Open smartphone Bluetooth settings
- Power on hearing aids and put them in pairing mode
- Select the hearing aids once they appear available in your phone's Bluetooth list
- Confirm pairing code on both devices
- Once successfully paired, make or answer calls and stream audio as desired!
Many Bluetooth hearing aids also offer dedicated apps to control features and personalize settings.
Connecting to TVs
Since most TVs don't have built-in Bluetooth, you need an intermediary device. Options include:
- Bluetooth transmitters - Plug into TV audio port and pair with hearing aids
- Streaming devices - Like Chromecast or Firestick provide both Bluetooth and WiFi streaming
- Wireless headphones - Pair headphones with TV then connect hearing aids to headphones
- Remote mics - Clip on talent on TV and transmit audio to paired hearing aids
Your audiologist can recommend the right accessories and walk you through setup.
The Cost of Bluetooth Hearing Aids
Bluetooth hearing aids range in price from about $2,500-$3,700 per pair depending on:
- Manufacturer - Premium brands cost more
- Model - Higher tech models are pricier
- Retailer - Buying from big box stores vs audiologists
- Features - More functions add expense
- Batteries - Rechargeable cost more initially
- Insurance coverage - Out of pocket expense varies
While Bluetooth functionality costs more upfront, the benefits often justify the investment.
Insurance Coverage
Since Bluetooth is considered an optional upgrade, insurance coverage varies. Policies like:
- Medicare - Covers portion of basic hearing aid costs only
- Medicaid - Limited or no coverage
- Private insurance - Dependent on each policy
Many will cover a standard hearing aid but not provide additional reimbursement for Bluetooth capabilities.
Financing Options
If out-of-pocket Bluetooth hearing aid costs are prohibitive, financing options include:
- Manufacturer payment plans - Low monthly payments, 0% interest
- Third party financing - Allow installment payments for fee
- Personal medical loans - From banks/credit unions
Payment plans make Bluetooth hearing aids affordable by spreading costs over time.
Bluetooth Hearing Aid Battery Life
Bluetooth streaming uses more battery power. However, today's models maximize efficiency for minimal impact on battery life. Approximate battery lifespan:
- Classic zinc-air batteries: 4-5 days
- Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries: 24-30 hours per charge
Factors affecting battery drain include:
- Amount of streaming time
- Power level of aids
- Infrequent charging
- Old batteries
Carry spare batteries or charge aids regularly to ensure you don't lose power at inopportune times.
Other Key Considerations for Bluetooth Hearing Aids
Here are a few other factors to weigh when looking into Bluetooth hearing aid models:
Compatibility
Ensure your desired devices are compatible before purchasing. iOS devices tend to pair most seamlessly.
Range
Maximum wireless streaming distances reach 20-30 feet. Walls and audio sources farther away degrade reception.
Sound Quality
Bluetooth provides high fidelity stereo sound for music and calls. But streaming can lag real time sounds by 10-50 milliseconds.
Security
Bluetooth connections are encrypted end-to-end. But enable all available password protections to prevent unauthorized access.
Ease of Use
Bluetooth pairing can take practice. Look for brands that simplify and automate connections as much as possible.
Take Your Hearing Aids Wireless
Bluetooth hearing aids eradicate the isolation caused by hearing loss. With the ability to stream phone calls, music, TV and more directly into your ears, Bluetooth models give you seamless connectivity.
Consider upgrading your current hearing aids or requesting Bluetooth functionality in your next pair. Though more expensive than traditional devices, Bluetooth capability can dramatically improve your hearing experience.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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