It seems like there is a smartphone app for almost anything these days, including a wide range focused on improved health and well-being. Hearing loss is one of the most prevalent health issues affecting a significant percentage of the Canadian population. It is estimated that roughly 1 in 5 Canadians currently has some degree of hearing loss.
Hearing loss is a progressive condition that worsens over time if left untreated. Hearing aids are generally the most effective treatment for hearing loss, with a wide range of devices available to fit particular needs.
Benefits of Hearing Aid Smartphone Apps
Smartphone apps can be used to control and adjust pretty much every aspect of daily life and routines you might need them to. From home security to automated thermostats and other home appliances, smartphone apps offer a convenient way to control them. There is also an assortment of apps that focus on monitoring and improving health.
Hearing Aid Adjustments
Hearing aids can be adjusted depending on the situation and environment you are in. An array of settings is available for filtering out background noise, adjusting bass and treble, and other user preferences. A smartphone app will let you make these adjustments quickly and easily, without even removing the device from your ear.
Check Device Status
Like with any technological device, a certain degree of maintenance and status checks is required to keep it functioning at an optimal level. Rather than taking your hearing aids to an audiologist for a check-up, you can use a smartphone app to check the device’s status. Regular maintenance checks help keep the device in good working order and prevent issues or malfunctions. Notifications can be set for appointment reminders, important updates, and when new settings become available.
Access Customized Sound Files
Personalized hearing programs can be created to set ideal settings on your device for a specific environment. For example, you have a favourite restaurant or café that you frequent, but have difficulty hearing due to noise or echo. Hearing aid settings can be adjusted and saved via a smartphone app, making them easily accessible anytime you are in that environment.
Directly Connect to Audio
Connect hearing aids directly to a variety of audio sources using a smartphone app. This allows the user to stream music, TV shows, phone calls, and video chats directly to the hearing device.
Find My Hearing Aids
This feature is great for quickly locating lost or misplaced hearing aids.
Hearing Tests and Assessments
Smartphone apps can also help you connect with an audiologist or hearing care professional. This is extremely useful for individuals with limited mobility or during a pandemic, when opportunities for in-person contact are restricted. Hearing care providers can offer hearing tests, hearing aid adjustments, hearing aid fittings, and much more, all delivered remotely.
Recommended Hearing Aid Apps
There are all kinds of smartphone apps that can help improve hearing aid functionality and keep devices operating smoothly. Some suggested apps to explore include:
- ReSound Smart 3D – program control, volume control, personalized settings, sound enhancers, tinnitus management, battery monitoring, customized programs, find my hearing aids, connect with hearing care professionals
- Signia – program control, volume control, mask mode, battery status, audio streaming, hearing lessons, tinnitus adjustment, and connect with hearing care professionals
- Oticon On – program control, volume control, audio streaming, find my hearing aids, HearingFitness feature, battery status, tinnitus relief
These are just a few examples of the diverse range of apps available for your smartphone. Hearing aid apps can be incredibly useful when paired with your hearing aid device. It is recommended that you consult a hearing professional to determine the best app for your specific needs.
