Wearing Headphones and Hearing Aids Together

Hearing Aids and Headphones: Relationship

Hearing Loss and Headphone Use

Listening to music or taking phone calls with headphones at high volumes for extended periods can increase the risk of hearing loss. High-volume sounds, which translate to high decibel levels, can damage the hair cells in the inner ear. These cells convert sound signals into nerve signals for the brain. Once damaged, these cells can lead to impaired hearing or even permanent hearing loss. In noisy environments, people often turn up the volume to mask background noise, further increasing this risk.

To protect your hearing, keep the volume within a safe range. It is recommended not to exceed 60% of the device's maximum volume or 85 decibels (SPL). Use phone apps or headphone volume limiters to monitor and control volume. Additionally, avoid prolonged use at high volumes; limit headphone use to 60 minutes at a time, then take breaks to rest your ears.

Hearing Aids and Headphones

Hearing aids are designed to improve hearing by amplifying sounds. However, using headphones while wearing hearing aids can present several challenges:

Feedback Issues: When headphones press against hearing aids, the audio signals can interfere with each other, leading to the unpleasant “whistling” noise commonly associated with hearing aid feedback.

Volume Management: Without hearing loss, adjusting headphone volume is straightforward. However, when using hearing aids, it becomes harder to gauge the exact volume level.

Comfort and Design: Wearing both hearing aids and headphones comfortably can be a physical challenge. Although modern headphone designs aim to minimize discomfort, achieving both comfort and high sound quality can be difficult. Some headphones may not fit well with hearing aids, leading to discomfort or reduced audio performance.

How Can You Wear Headphones and Hearing Aids Comfortably Together?

Before discussing how to wear headphones and hearing aids simultaneously, we need to address two scenarios: whether your hearing aids have Bluetooth connectivity.

Bluetooth-Enabled Hearing Aids: Modern Bluetooth-enabled hearing aids can connect directly to smartphones, tablets, and other Bluetooth devices. This eliminates the need for additional headphones for audio streaming. For instance:

Nearity HearPod Air: This model transforms the sound amplifier into wireless headphones, connecting to devices within a 33-foot range for music, audiobooks, podcasts, videos, and calls.

Widex MOMENT Series: Allows direct connection to various Bluetooth devices for a clear audio experience.

Starkey Livio Edge AI Series: Provides direct audio streaming and smart device pairing.

If the hearing aid’s sound quality doesn’t meet your expectations, you might still opt for additional headphones.

Non-Bluetooth Hearing Aids: If your hearing aids lack Bluetooth functionality, selecting compatible headphones is crucial.

Choosing the Right Headphones for Your Hearing Aids

When selecting headphones compatible with hearing aids, consider the following types and features to ensure optimal performance and comfort:

Selecting the right headphones can enhance your listening experience while accommodating your hearing aids. Consider your specific needs and preferences to find the best fit.

Typically, over-ear headphones, bone conduction headphones, and Bluetooth headphones are compatible with most common types of hearing aids, such as ITE, BTE, RIC, and Open-Fit hearing aids.

Practical Tips for Using Headphones with Hearing Aids

1. Choose the Right Headphones: Refer to the table above to understand the benefits and considerations when selecting headphones for use with hearing aids. Ensure that the headphones fit comfortably with your hearing aids.
2. Adjust Fit and Placement: Make sure the headphones do not press against or interfere with your hearing aids. Adjust the position of the headphones to avoid discomfort. For over-ear headphones, ensure the ear cups are positioned correctly to prevent pressure on the hearing aids.
3. Monitor Volume Levels: Keep the headphone volume at a safe level to avoid damaging your hearing. Aim for a volume no higher than 60% of the maximum and avoid prolonged use at high volumes.
4. Test Compatibility: If possible, test the headphones with your hearing aids to ensure they work well together and do not cause feedback or interference.
5. Consider Additional Accessories: Some hearing aids come with streaming devices or accessories that might improve compatibility with headphones, especially if you use them together frequently.
6. Consult with a Professional: If you experience ongoing issues or discomfort, consult an audiologist or hearing aid specialist for personalized advice.

Conclusion

Balancing headphones and hearing aids can be challenging, but it’s manageable with the right strategy. To optimize your experience, select well-fitting headphones, keep the volume at a safe level, and consult a professional if you encounter issues. With these tips, you can enjoy both devices effectively.