Author: pixelkicks

When it comes to choosing a hearing aid, you’ll find that Bluetooth is now pretty much an industry standard across most modern hearing aids.

The integration of Bluetooth technology in hearing aids gives you the ability to stream phone calls, music, radio or podcasts directly to both of your hearing aids. On top of that, every Bluetooth-enabled hearing aid has its own app, which allows you to manually adjust the settings of your hearing aid straight from your device.

However, it’s important to note that there are also different types of Bluetooth connectivity, which we’ll cover in this blog. Each type of Bluetooth has its own pros and cons based on the different protocols that are used, and each hearing aid has its own level of Bluetooth compatibility.

Let’s take a look at some of the best Bluetooth-compatible hearing aid models on the market for 2024.

Hearing aids with classic Bluetooth

Classic Bluetooth is what we would consider the more traditional platform that we all know and use across our devices. For the best hearing aid with classic Bluetooth, we’re looking at the Phonak Lumity range of hearing aids.

One of the key advantages of classic Bluetooth is that it can connect to any phone with Bluetooth streaming capabilities. This means it doesn’t matter if you’ve got an old or new smartphone or otherwise, or even a landline phone with a built-in Bluetooth function, you’ll already be set up and ready to go with Phonak Lumity.

Hearing aids with LE Audio

The next group of hearing aids use something called LE Audio. This is a low-energy form of Bluetooth and was the original way that hearing aids connected to the iPhone back in 2010.

Best hearing aids with LE Audio integrated:

• ReSound Nexia
• Oticon Real
• Signia IX
• Widex Moment
• Starkey Genesis AI

LE Audio works well, but there are some limitations. For example, there is no bidirectional Bluetooth for Android devices meaning that with iPhones, you can have completely hands-free phone calls. There are also some limitations on which phones will allow for LE Audio Bluetooth streaming.

Hearing aids with Auracast ready LE Audio

As we get more advanced with Bluetooth connectivity, this next group of hearing aids have the newest version of LE Audio which makes them Auracast-ready:

• ReSound Nexia
• Oticon Real
• Signia IX

Auracast is the future of connectivity which, once fully rolled out, will allow public venues to stream any sound with a higher quality and lower battery consumption than we’ve seen from any streaming technology in the past, directly to both of your hearing aids.

In the next few years, we’re likely to see Auracast broadcasted audio replacing the century-old hearing loop systems built into public venues which will allow for multiple hearing aid users to simultaneously connect to audio when they’re in public spaces.

What are the downsides of this? It’s only going to be as good as how many public venues have it installed, but at the moment it’s still in the development stage. Regardless, it’s great to see hearing aid manufacturers getting ready for the rollout of this Auracast transmission.

Read more: What is Auracast? The Bluetooth technology revolutionising audio

Hearing aids with no Bluetooth connectivity

We mentioned at the start of this blog that most modern hearing aids have Bluetooth connectivity, but not all of them. The Widex Moment RIC 10 doesn’t have access to either Bluetooth or a telecoil feature.

There are plenty of options when it comes to connectivity so it’s hard to imagine a world without Bluetooth being built into hearing aids, but this is something to be aware of when choosing the right hearing aid for you.

Which Bluetooth hearing aid is best for you?

This may or may not come as a surprise, but the phone you have can directly impact the features you’ll get from your hearing aid, with iPhones being the most versatile.

As you’re doing your research, each hearing aid manufacturer has a compatibility list on their website that details which phones are compatible with their particular hearing aid. So, it’s worth checking that out or speaking to your audiologist to ensure you’ve got access to all of those features before choosing any particular hearing aid.

Of course, the best way to determine the right hearing aid for you is by working directly with an audiologist who can accurately diagnose your hearing loss and make recommendations accordingly.

Harley Street Hearing is London’s largest independent hearing clinic, with four locations across London. Our team of clinical audiologists can advise on the best hearing aid for you and as a completely independent audiology company, we can offer a wide range of hearing aids from all major UK manufacturers. Get in touch with us to book an appointment.

Best Bluetooth Hearing Aids 2024 Reviewed

Matthew Allsop is a Partner at Harley Street Hearing and the content creator for Hearing Tracker, where he shares his honest opinions on all things to do with hearing health and hearing aid technology. Hearing Tracker is the world’s first truly independent resource for hearing aid customers. You can watch his video on the best Bluetooth hearing aids for 2024 below.

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Harley Street Hearing are proud to be working with the cast of Magic Mike Live in London, to provide them with custom-made Musicians’ Hearing Protection.

Romy Cohen, Clinical Lead, recently headed to the Hippodrome Casino in London to take ear impressions of the Magic Mike Live cast.

See below for some images of the cast members having their ear moulds taken, ready to be turned into custom-fit musicians’ earplugs.

Protecting musicians’ hearing

Harley Street Hearing and Musicians’ Hearing Services are passionate about education and strategies to manage the risks of exposure to loud sound within the music and entertainment industry. For the past 25 years, we are proud to have been providing many organisations within the sector including numerous West End musicals, the Royal Opera House and English National Opera to name but a few, with personalised advice and tailor-made solutions to protect their hearing on stage.

In partnership with Help Musicians, Musicians’ Union and the Institute Society of Musicians, we are also the providers for the nationwide Musicians’ Hearing Health Scheme which gives all professional musicians in the UK affordable access to specialist hearing assessments and hearing protection. Click here to find out more.

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Today, I’m sharing the incredible story of Opal Sandy, an 18-month-old in the UK who recently received gene therapy just before her first birthday. Now, six months on, she can hear without hearing aids.

This could be a beacon of hope for the 1.5 billion people across the world who are affected by hearing loss. So, let’s see what this means for you and your hearing.

Developments in hearing loss research

Perhaps you suffer from hearing loss yourself, or maybe you know somebody who’s recently been diagnosed with hearing loss. No matter how you’ve ended up here, there’s definitely no denying that hearing loss is a widespread issue affecting one in five people globally and for every 500 babies born, one of them will have some form of hearing loss.

Despite this, historically both research and funding for a cure have been pretty scarce. But, in recent years, there has definitely been a surge in attention and clinical trials, signalling a promising shift towards finding a solution. This is where the CHORD clinical trial comes in.

What is the CHORD clinical trial?

A team from the University of Cambridge and University College of London have completed the world’s first gene therapy trial aimed at restoring hearing. This treatment, named DB-OTO, developed by biotech leader Regeneron, was administered to 12-month-old Opal Sandy, offering a new horizon for those with a genetic form of hearing loss.

Opal and her older sister both share a mutation in the OTOF gene, which is thought to affect up to 20,000 people in the US and the EU5. This gene is crucial for the production of a protein called otoferlin, which is responsible for transmitting auditory signals from the ear to the brain. Without it, individuals may pass hearing tests but still experience something called auditory neuropathy, which is a condition that disrupts these signals.

Now, this CHORD trial involves a three-part process with children receiving varying doses of gene therapy. Opal underwent a 16-minute procedure under general anaesthetic where a modified harmless virus was infused within her cochlea, delivering a functional OTOF gene to the cells within her inner ear, replacing the faulty DNA and effectively enabling communication along her auditory pathway between the ear and the brain.

The awesome news is that early results from this trial are already exceeding expectations, with Opal’s hearing having significantly improved. This groundbreaking research paves the way for a new era of treating deafness. Opal is one of 18 children undergoing the trial, with more deaf children being recruited over a five-year period to measure the success of this treatment.

Professor Bance, an ear surgeon at the Trust and chief investigator for the trial, said that the initial results were better than he’d hoped and expected and that this has the potential to cure patients with this type of deafness. He also reported that this trial is just the beginning of gene therapies and marks a new era in the treatment of deafness.

The future of gene therapies in treating hearing loss

In my opinion, whilst it’s too early to say for certain, the hope is that gene therapies in the future could eventually replace hearing aids and other technologies, which will potentially be game changers in treating hearing loss.

At the moment, this cure is only possible for this very specific niche and particular type of hearing loss. Of course, when I start to think about the other advances that this may result in, I get incredibly excited about the thoughts of continued exploration in this field, and my hope is that this will expand to find a tinnitus cure too. For the moment, sadly, it’s still being trialled, but of course, I will be the first to let you know as soon as there are any further developments in this field.

Hearing loss cure that ACTUALLY works discovered…

Matthew Allsop is a Partner at Harley Street Hearing and the content creator for Hearing Tracker, where he shares his honest opinions on all things to do with hearing health and hearing aid technology. Hearing Tracker is the world’s first truly independent resource for hearing aid customers. You can watch his video on gene therapy for curing hearing loss below.

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Imagine this now: You’re in a bustling airport waiting for your flight. You look over and see a group of people huddled around a television watching a thrilling sports match, but you can’t hear anything. Now, what if you could tune into that audio directly on your headphones?

Welcome to the future of audio technology, where this is possible with LE Audio and Auracast.

Understanding LE Audio and Auracast

LE Audio, which was introduced in the new Bluetooth 5.2 and 5.3 standards, is a low-powered version of Bluetooth technology designed specifically for when you’re streaming audio.

Along with this, we have the introduction of Auracast, which is a feature that allows an audio source transmitter to broadcast either a single or multiple audio streams to an unlimited number of audio receivers, which in reality could be your Bluetooth earbuds or even Bluetooth hearing aids.

Now, the big question is…

Why is this an improvement on classic Bluetooth?

Bluetooth technology dates way back to 1999 and was designed initially for high bandwith wireless data transfer applications. This happened to include streaming audio, but that isn’t what it was originally designed for.

On the other hand, LE Audio uses a codec called LC3 which stands for Low Complexity Communication Codec, and this supports:

• A wide range of usable bit rates, with bit depths of 16, 24 and 32 bits
• Unlimited channels
• Sampling rates of 8, 16, 24, 32, 44 and 48 kHz

If you’re wondering why bit rate is so important, it’s essentially the number of bits that are conveyed or processed per unit of time. In simpler terms, it’s how much information your audio sends out per second from your device in an online platform. The higher the bit rate, the better the audio quality.

In practical terms, if you’re listening to your favourite song on your headphones using classic Bluetooth, of course, the quality of that sound isn’t going to be that bad – especially if it’s what you’re used to. But when you switch over to LE Audio, you’ll notice the sound is a lot clearer, which is all down to the magic of this LC3 codec built into this LE Audio.

Streaming audio directly to hearing aids with Auracast

Remember the airport scenario from the beginning? With Auracast, you can tune into the audio of the TV broadcasting that sports match directly to your headphones or even your hearing aids, with no more straining to hear over the noise of the crowd that surrounds you. The awesome news is that this goes for hearing aids too.

LE Audio introduces broadcasting of signals to any hearing aid user who is in the range of the transmitter that has a compatible hearing aid, meaning that with the press of a button or using the app for your hearing aids, you can activate the Auracast and you’ll be able to connect to the Auracast transmission.

LE Audio adds lower latency, lower power consumption, and a better quality signal to Bluetooth hearing aids too, and this allows developers to offer more features without impacting the battery life. In my opinion, this is going to have a hugely significant impact on the next generation of hearing aids being built.

We’ve already got Signia, ReSound, and Oticon who’ve got LE Audio built into their hearing aids ready for the global rollout of this Auracast transmission.

If you want to know more about the hearing aids that have this tech built in, then read our review of the best hearing aid technology of 2024.

LE Audio & Auracast DESTROY all existing Bluetooth headphone audio…

Matthew Allsop is a Partner at Harley Street Hearing and the content creator for Hearing Tracker, where he shares his honest opinions on all things to do with hearing health and hearing aid technology. Hearing Tracker is the world’s first truly independent resource for hearing aid customers. You can watch his video on LE Audio & Auracast below.

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Hearing aids are small yet powerful devices that have the ability to transform the lives of anyone suffering from hearing loss.

Whether you’re thinking about getting hearing aids or are simply curious about how they work, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how they pick up sounds, make them louder and process them to help you understand conversations and enjoy everyday life.

How exactly do hearing aids work?

The technology that goes into making modern hearing aids is incredibly advanced, but the mechanism behind how they work is relatively simple.

The basic function of most hearing aids involves three main components and a straightforward three-step process:

1. Microphone: All hearing aids have a microphone that picks up sound and speech from the environment around you
2. Amplifier: These sounds are then converted into an electrical signal and sent to an amplifier. The amplifier increases the strength of the signal, therefore making the sound louder and clearer
3. Speaker/receiver: These amplified signals are then converted back into sound by a speaker (also known as a receiver), and directed straight into the user’s ear.

Of course, these are the fundamental workings of a hearing aid but many of today’s devices have more sophisticated features that help to improve the user’s listening experience. These may include features that reduce background noise or help you to distinguish specific sounds, but we’ll cover more on this later in the blog.

It’s also worth noting that most hearing aids operate on disposable zinc-air batteries which can last anywhere from 3 to 22 days before needing to be replaced, depending on usage and the type of hearing aid. However, rechargeable hearing aids are now more common than ever with many manufacturers recognising the importance of easy on-the-go charging.

Do hearing aids give you full hearing?

Hearing aids aren’t a cure for hearing loss. They won’t make your hearing perfect, but they do have the ability to help you hear better than you could without them.

They are the most effective solution for many people with a hearing impairment, regardless of the severity or type of hearing loss.

Hearing aids work to improve hearing through a few different ways:

1. Amplification: Hearing loss can make speech and sounds difficult to hear, but hearing aids work to amplify these sounds making them louder and easier to hear. This helps users to better understand speech and sounds around them.
2. Sound quality: Modern hearing aids use advanced technology such as digital signal processing, noise reduction, and feedback cancellation to improve sound quality and deliver clear, concise listening experiences.
3. Personalised listening profiles: Hearing aids can be programmed to amplify specific frequencies more than others, making them tailored to the user’s specific hearing loss and listening environments.

Whilst hearing aids don’t restore hearing to ‘full’ or normal levels, they significantly improve it for many people. They are most effective when implemented as soon as possible, as they can help prevent the worsening of hearing loss over time.

Undiagnosed hearing loss leads to prolonged periods of strain on the auditory processing system. This can lead to further degradation of auditory processing abilities and can eventually make the brain less efficient at processing sounds, even when using hearing aids later on.

Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for supporting your auditory and brain health, so if you suspect you may have a hearing loss it’s important to book a hearing test as soon as possible.

Hearing aids vs cochlear implants

Hearing aids and cochlear implants are both devices used to improve hearing, but they serve different purposes and types of hearing loss.

Generally speaking, hearing aids are suitable for most individuals with mild to profound hearing loss who have a good level of speech understanding. If an individual has moderate to profound hearing loss with poor speech understanding and hearing aids prove to be of little benefit, cochlear implants may be an option.

Cochlear implants are electronic devices that are surgically inserted into the cochlea. They are designed to bypass damaged parts of the ear (sensory hair cells) and directly stimulate the auditory nerve to provide a sense of sound.

The key difference between both is that hearing aids are non-surgical (auditory stimulation) and cochlear implants are surgical (electric stimulation). The choice between the two is typically down to necessity as opposed to preference, with cochlear implants sometimes being the only solution for those with profound deafness who do not benefit from hearing aids anymore.

If you have been wearing hearing aids for a while and feel you are not benefiting from them and would like to discuss the possibility of cochlear implants, then get in touch with our clinic.

Features of the different hearing aid styles

There are several different styles of hearing aids, each with its own set of features, benefits and mechanisms.

Earlier, we explored the basic mechanics of how hearing aids work, but let’s take a look at the individual styles and how they differ:

Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids

BTE hearing aids consist of a small case worn behind the ear which is connected to an earpiece via a clear plastic tube. The case contains all the electronic components such as the microphone, amplifier, and battery.

How they work:

1. The microphone picks up external sounds and converts them into electrical signals
2. The amplifier increases the strength of the electrical signals
3. The amplified signals are then delivered through the clear plastic tube to the earpiece, where they are transmitted into the ear canal

Behind-the-ear hearing aids are suitable for a wide range of hearing loss, from mild to profound, and can accommodate additional features such as wireless connectivity, telecoils and directional microphones.

Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) / Receiver-In-Ear (RITE) hearing aids

These are similar to BTE hearing aids but with a smaller casing behind the ear, and the receiver sits inside the ear canal instead of in the main housing.

How they work:

1. Sound is collected by the microphone and processed by the electronics in the housing behind the ear
2. The processed sound is transmitted through a thin wire to the receiver inside the ear canal
3. The receiver converts the electrical signals back into sound and delivers it directly into the ear canal

RIC or RITE hearing aids usually provide a more natural sound quality and reduce the occlusion effect (the sensation of sounds being blocked due to an obstruction in the ear). They are suitable for many individuals with mild to severe hearing loss.

In-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids

ITE hearing aids are custom-made to fit comfortably within the ear. They are available in different sizes, from full-shell to Completely-in-the-Canal (CIC).

How they work:

1. A custom-moulded shell houses all electronic components including the microphone, amplifier, and battery
2. The microphone picks up sound, and the amplifier processes and amplifies the signals
3. The amplified sound is delivered through a speaker located within the shell, directly into the ear canal

In-the-ear hearing aids are suitable for those with mild to severe hearing loss, and can accommodate additional features such as volume controls and directional microphones.

Invisible-in-canal (IIC) hearing aids

This is the smallest and most discreet style of hearing aid which is virtually invisible when worn. Custom-made to fit deep inside the ear canal, IIC hearing aids are less visible to others around you.

How they work:

1. Similar to ITE models, all components are housed within a custom-moulded earpiece that sits deep inside the ear
2. Sound is picked up through the microphone, and the amplifier works to process and amplify the signals
3. The amplified sound is delivered directly into the ear canal through a tiny speaker, positioned close to the eardrum

IIC hearing aids are suitable for those with mild to moderate hearing loss, and are ideal for users who want the most discreet hearing solution.

If you’re looking for a completely invisible hearing aid we recommend the Phonak Lyric, the world’s only truly invisible device. Harley Street Hearing is the original Lyric clinic in the UK and the number one Lyric clinic in Europe, and we offer a no-risk Lyric hearing assessment and no-obligation 30-day trial.

Additional features of hearing aids

Beyond their basic functions, many modern hearing aids are now fitted with advanced features designed to improve usability and listening experience.

Hearing aids can be customised to suit an individual’s needs and preferences, but some of the most common features that can be found include:

• Telecoils: This enables the hearing aid to pick up sound from compatible sound systems such as those found in theatres or churches, providing a clearer listening experience in public places.
• Bluetooth connectivity: Most modern hearing aids can connect wirelessly to smartphones, tablets, TVs and other devices, allowing users to stream audio directly to their hearing aids.
• Directional microphones: These microphones can focus on sounds coming from specific directions which is particularly useful in noisy environments.
• Feedback cancellation: This feature minimises the whistling or feedback sounds that can occur with hearing aids, providing a clearer listening experience especially outdoors.
• Tinnitus masking: Some hearing aids offer tinnitus masking features, which generate soothing sounds to help alleviate the symptoms of tinnitus.

The importance of getting the perfect hearing aid for you

Not every advanced feature will be necessary for everyone, which is why it’s important to get a hearing aid tailored to your requirements. The best way to do this is to book a hearing test with an audiologist.

A hearing test will accurately diagnose your type of hearing loss and the severity of it, which will help to inform the choice of hearing aid. Your audiologist will also take the time to understand your individual hearing needs based on lifestyle and preferences, and will then be able to recommend the most suitable device for you.

Harley Street Hearing has a team of fully qualified clinical audiologists who specialise in helping patients on their journey to better hearing. We listen and we understand, and we take great pride in providing all our patients with personalised care. Our hearing aid patients are patients for life, with complimentary annual checkups to ensure they are getting the most out of their device.

As an independent audiology company, we work with all major UK hearing aid manufacturers and can choose from an extensive range of devices with unbiased advice.

We have hearing clinics across London and you don’t need a GP referral to book a hearing test with us. To find out more or to book an appointment, contact us online or call us on 020 7486 1053.

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Hearing aid manufacturer Starkey has unveiled their Signature Series, a brand-new line of custom hearing aids with world-first features.

It’s their smallest line of custom-made products with three non-wireless custom hearing aids, including the world’s smallest custom rechargeable hearing aid.

Starkey Signature Series

The series includes three different styles, all fitted with Starkey’s award-winning Neuro Sound Technology which is designed to make it easier to distinguish words and speech more naturally, hear soft sounds without distracting noise and reduce listening effort. The Signature Series follows their artisan customisation process and service to create the perfect custom hearing aid.

Signature CIC R NW

The world’s smallest custom rechargeable Completely-In-the ear-Canal hearing aid. The all-new Signature CIC R NW is a discreet, rechargeable hearing aid whose charge lasts up to 38 hours and is waterproof up to 1 metre.

Signature CIC NW

A battery-operated Completely-In-the-ear-Canal version for patients who prefer the flexibility of zinc-air batteries.

Signature IIC NW

The smallest-of-small Invisible-In-the-ear-Canal hearing aids, for those preferring an extremely discreet solution.

Starkey Signature Hearing Aid Colours

All models are available in six colour options ranging from black and dark brown to light brown and pink, to suit the preferences of the wearer.

The Completely-In-the-ear-Canal models also come with five shell colour options; white, medium brown, light brown, black and a duo-tone red & blue option.

Completely-In-the-ear-Canal R NW

Completely-In-the-ear-Canal NW

Invisible-In-the-ear-Canal NW

Key features of Starkey Signature Series

• Virtually invisible: Sit comfortably inside your ear, discreet to others.
• Transparent sound: Neuro Sound Technology delivers clear and true sound, the way the brain intended.
• Custom-fit to you: Starkey Signature Series hearing aids are custom fit to your unique hearing needs.
• Neuro Sound Technology: Starkey’s industry-leading technology delivers soft sounds without noise and natural speech whilst significantly reducing their listening effort.
• Edge Mode: uses AI to optimise sound quality on-demand for clearer speech or improved listening comfort at the push of a button.

President and CEO at Starkey, Brandon Sawalich, said: “With the introduction of Signature Series, the world’s first fully custom rechargeable hearing aid, and even better sound quality to Genesis AI, Starkey continues its drive to deliver the most intuitive, convenient, and patient-driven hearing products in the industry—further proving the best never rests.”

Starkey’s has introduced the world’s smallest custom rechargeable hearing aids with their latest release. Starkey Signature Series is designed to deliver clear, true-to-life sound in advanced technology custom fit to hide discreetly in your ear.

Starkey Hearing Aids at Harley Street Hearing

Harley Street Hearing are proud to offer the brand new Signature Series, along with all other Starkey hearing aids to our patients. Our highly trained clinical audiologists can advise on the most suitable hearing aid for your unique hearing needs.

To book a hearing consultation, call us or fill in the contact form below.

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The role that hearing aids play when it comes to managing hearing loss can’t be disputed. Hearing loss is something that cannot be reversed, and if left untreated it can worsen over time. Hearing aids can transform an individual’s ability to hear and ultimately improve their quality of life.

However, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. In fact, there are so many types of hearing aids that the choice can be a little overwhelming for someone seeking advice. On top of that, there are multiple hearing aid providers available. Do you seek help from the NHS, a high street chain, or a private independent audiologist?

We understand that there can often be a lot of confusion around the options available to you, so hopefully this article will give you a clear understanding of the difference between the NHS and private hearing aids and the services offered across the sector.

Understanding NHS hearing aids

NHS hearing aids are provided free of charge through the UK’s healthcare system, provided the individual meets the eligibility criteria. This is determined based on factors such as the severity of hearing loss, medical history and impact on quality of life.

Typically, individuals need to be referred to an NHS audiologist by their GP or another healthcare professional before undergoing a series of tests and assessments to determine their eligibility.

What hearing aids are available on the NHS

NHS hearing aids can cater to different levels of hearing loss from mild to severe, but are typically always behind-the-ear (BTE) models with standard functionality designed to provide basic amplification. For some individuals, or depending on regions or trusts, smaller in-the-ear (ITE) options may be available.

As standard, NHS hearing aids are digital models that can be adjusted to suit an individual’s hearing needs but the range of available models and technology levels is usually quite limited. They tend to be older, more basic models that don’t offer the latest advancements in technology with limited colour options and you may not get a choice in the type of hearing aid.

Pros and cons of NHS hearing aids

Pros:

• Cost-effective: NHS hearing aids are free if you’re eligible for them, making them a budget-friendly option.
• Widely available: The national healthcare system is available to people who are ordinarily resident in the UK, making it accessible to a large percentage of the population.

Cons:

• Limited choice: The NHS doesn’t offer a large range of manufacturers or models and the options for customisation are restricted.
• Longer waiting times: Individuals require a referral to undergo an NHS hearing test and due to a lack of resources, the waiting time for these appointments, and subsequent follow-up appointments for adjustments, can be significantly long.
• Older technology: NHS hearing aids typically don’t offer the latest technology which can impact performance and ultimately the benefits that an individual can gain from hearing aids.
• Eligibility criteria: This can be stringent, meaning that some people with mild to moderate hearing loss may not qualify for NHS hearing aids.

Understanding private hearing aids

Private hearing aids are offered by independent audiology clinics, as well as some larger high street chains. Unlike the NHS, these are paid for by the individual but they don’t require a referral from a GP or any other medical professional.

Anyone can book an appointment directly with a private audiologist for a hearing consultation to assess their hearing loss and discuss the hearing aid options available to them.

Hearing aids offered by private audiologists

Independent audiology providers like ourselves at Harley Street Hearing have access to an extensive range of hearing aids from every manufacturer. That’s what makes us independent, as we’re not tied to one manufacturer we can offer completely unbiased advice suggesting the hearing aids that are right for your personal requirements, high street chains do not have this flexibility.

Working directly with leading manufacturers such as Oticon, Phonak, Starkey, Widex and many more, we have direct access to the most advanced technology on the market, quite often before anyone else as manufacturers bring their products to us to trial and review.

This technology ranges from features such as advanced connectivity options, noise reduction and powerful sensors that can adapt to your hearing needs when your listening environment changes.

Along with advanced technology, there are many different designs, styles and colour options available when buying privately. This includes completely discreet invisible hearing aids that are worlds apart from the standard Behind-The-Ear models offered by the NHS.

For private patients, this means that their hearing aid choices can be truly personalised depending on the level of technology they want, their unique hearing challenges and aesthetic preferences.

Pros and cons of private hearing aids

Pros:

• Advanced technology: Access to the latest hearing technology which is continually evolving, to ensure your hearing aids are helping you to hear optimally every day. Typically four technology generations ahead of NHS options.
• Wide range of options: Greater control over the style of hearing aid chosen, with the ability to customise to your preferences.
• Personalised service: Comprehensive assessments, fitting and ongoing support to enhance your journey to better hearing. At Harley Street Hearing once you become one of our valued patients, any subsequent adjustments or hearing aftercare is complimentary for life.

Cons:

• Higher initial cost: Private hearing aids come with a premium price which varies depending on the level of technology you require, however, payment plans are available should you wish to help spread the cost. Harley Street Hearing also offers a 30-day trial, so you can try before you buy.

Are private hearing aids better than NHS?

Whether private hearing aids are better than NHS hearing aids can be subjective and depends on your individual preferences and circumstances.

However, where NHS hearing aids are free they are typically a one-size-fits-all solution with a lower technical specification, which doesn’t work for everyone. For example, whilst they may be suitable for one-on-one listening environments, they generally don’t perform as well in noisy group settings. If you’re an individual with an active or particularly social lifestyle, they may not provide the hearing clarity you need.

Beyond the technology available, it’s understandable that some individuals can be apprehensive about wearing hearing aids due to the stigma that may be attached to them. This is where private hearing aids can be a far superior option as designs are much more sleek, modern and discreet or completely invisible where required.

Whilst it’s crucial not to overlook the benefits that the NHS provides, it’s equally as important to take your preferences into account. Ultimately, a hearing aid is something that you’ll need to wear day in and day out, so being completely comfortable with the device and ensuring that it serves your hearing needs is essential.

Private hearing services vs NHS

There are clear differences between the hearing aids offered by the NHS and private audiologists, but what about the services that come with them?

Since hearing aids are a lifelong commitment, it’s important to take into account the standard of service you’ll receive and the availability of support when you require it. Let’s compare the difference between the hearing services within the NHS and those offered by private audiologists.

NHS hearing services

• Limited appointment times: Due to high demand and the unfortunate lack of resources within the NHS, appointments are usually constrained to a certain time. This means that appointments can be rushed, and patients may not receive an in-depth, thorough hearing assessment.
• Standardised care: NHS audiology services operate with a standardised framework to provide consistent care to everyone, meaning that hearing services aren’t tailored to each individual’s specific needs.
• Basic aftercare: This will typically cover routine maintenance and repairs of NHS-provided hearing aids, but aftercare will be more generalised in comparison to private clinics.

Private audiology services

• Comprehensive assessments: Appointment times aren’t limited and assessments aren’t rushed, meaning private audiologists can conduct thorough, in-depth consultations. They take the time to provide an accurate diagnosis whilst also understanding an individual’s challenges, lifestyle and preferences. At Harley Street Hearing a typical hearing consultation is 90 minutes.
• Personalised attention: Private audiologists prioritise personalised services, offering individualised advice and support to each patient in order to deliver tailored solutions.
• Appointment availability: Hearing consultations at a private clinic are more readily available without lengthy waiting times, and are typically more flexible to accommodate busy schedules, often available within 24 hours.
• Ongoing aftercare: Private clinics prioritise aftercare to ensure their patients maximise the benefits of their hearing aids and can promptly address any concerns or challenges that may arise in the future.

All of the above are important considerations when choosing a hearing aid provider. Your hearing abilities and needs can change over time, so your hearing aid will need adjustments or upgrades to cater to your changing needs.

Private hearing aids in London

At Harley Street Hearing, we believe that treating hearing loss is far more than simply prescribing a hearing aid. Your hearing journey is all about the entire patient experience, from your initial consultation to your ongoing support and aftercare.

All of our hearing aid patients are patients for life. We offer unrivalled aftercare with complimentary annual check-ups and ear wax removal, to ensure that our patients get the most out of their hearing aids with the support they need from our team of highly trained clinical audiologists.

Whether you think you’re experiencing hearing loss and need a hearing aid, or you’re an existing hearing aid user looking for an upgrade, or requiring a repair, get in touch with us. We have various hearing clinics in London and a team of experts ready to listen to your concerns and provide you with the treatment you deserve.

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Noise-induced hearing loss through music is prevalent, as highlighted by this recent article on famous musicians with hearing loss.

The Musicians’ Hearing Health Scheme aims to support and educate musicians nationwide, safeguarding their hearing health. Founded by Musicians’ Hearing Services, in collaboration with Help Musicians UK (HMUK), the Musicians’ Union (MU), and the Incorporated Society of Musicians (ISM), it’s committed to making a difference in the lives of musicians everywhere.

It’s been eight years since the launch of the scheme, and so I thought now was a good time to reflect on some of the remarkable work we’ve done so far.

What we’ve achieved so far

In just eight years, the scheme has helped over 18,500 musicians across the UK, from guitarists and drummers to DJs and singers.

Here’s an insight into what the Musicians’ Hearing Health Scheme offers:

Comprehensive hearing assessments tailored specifically for musicians

Conducted by our expert audiologists at Harley Street Hearing and Musicians Hearing Services, these assessments are designed to detect early signs of hearing damage and provide personalised recommendations for protection and preservation.

Heavily subsidised hearing protection

The scheme is committed to ensuring that cost isn’t a barrier to safeguarding the hearing of musicians, recognising the financial restraints they may face. Through our partnership with industry-leading manufacturers, we offer top-quality earplugs and custom-made ear moulds at accessible rates, empowering musicians to protect their most precious asset: their hearing.

Education & raising awareness

Education lies at the core of our initiative. We are dedicated to raising awareness about the dangers of noise-induced hearing loss and empowering musicians with the knowledge they need to make informed choices about their hearing health. Workshops, seminars, and online resources serve as invaluable tools in this endeavour, equipping musicians with practical strategies for mitigating risk and promoting long-term auditory wellness.

The importance of the scheme

The dangers of excessive noise exposure have been highlighted in recent news articles where renowned musicians such as Dave Grohl have shared their battles with hearing loss and tinnitus, serving as a reminder that no musicians are exempt from poor hearing health.

Reflecting on our achievements so far, we find inspiration in the profound impact of the Musicians’ Hearing Health Scheme. Behind the statistics, we have helped to safeguard the careers of countless numbers of musicians, preserving their passions and securing their futures. We couldn’t have done this without the unwavering dedication of our team and the support of our partners.

Thank you for your support

Our journey continues, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to championing the hearing health of musicians nationwide. Together, we can ensure that future generations of musicians continue to share their gifts with the world, unencumbered by the looming threat of hearing loss.

In closing, I extend my deepest gratitude to all those who have contributed to the success of the Musicians’ Hearing Health Scheme. Your support, dedication, and advocacy are the driving forces behind our mission, and it is through our collective efforts we will continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of musicians everywhere.

Matthew Allsop, Harley Street Hearing and Musicians’ Hearing Services

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Have you ever wondered if having a hearing loss means you’ll suffer from dementia? And can hearing aids help to prevent it?

Today’s blog is a deep dive into a topic that’s both concerning and intriguing: the connection between hearing health and cognitive wellness. And let me start off by saying, I’m no expert in dementia, but I’m passionate about sharing evidence-based information in a way that’s easy to understand.

Alzheimer’s fake news

Recently, a patient came to my clinic after a distressing experience at a national chain in the UK. They’d been told that if they didn’t wear hearing aids, they would, in no uncertain terms, develop Alzheimer’s.

This is a claim that’s not only misleading but downright infuriating. In my opinion, hearing loss alone and the disability that people experience due to having a hearing loss is a big enough reason to warrant wearing hearing aids.

So, let’s set the record straight.

What the evidence says on hearing loss and cognitive decline

There is growing evidence in the media linking dementia and hearing loss, which is becoming harder and harder to ignore, that is, if it’s interpreted correctly. Let’s take a look at some actual evidence:

• In 2011, Dr. Frank Lin of Johns Hopkins concluded that a mild hearing loss will potentially double the risk for cognitive decline, a moderate hearing loss will triple the risk, and a severe hearing loss will quintuple your risk.
• A huge 25-year study involving almost 4,000 people with hearing loss by Dr. Hélèna Amieva and her colleagues in France concluded that there is a strong link between hearing status and the risk of disability, dementia, and depression.
• More recently, in The Lancet in 2020, it was indicated that hearing loss is the number one modifiable factor for preventing dementia for people in their mid to later life.

These figures are alarming, but it doesn’t mean hearing loss guarantees dementia.

Globally, around 55 million people suffer from some form of dementia. However, while we all lose some degree of brain processing power as we age, it’s relatively rare or unlikely that you’ll experience dementia or Alzheimer’s, with only around 2% of the population between the ages of 65 to 69 actually suffering from dementia. This figure does increase to about 33% by the age of 90.

So, while cognitive decline is a natural part of ageing, it doesn’t have to lead to dementia.

How hearing aids can help with dementia prevention

There is a lot of time, energy, and resources being poured into this subject, with evidence continuing to grow around how you can improve your chances of keeping your brain sharp throughout your entire lifetime. And guess what? Maintaining good hearing health is one of them.

HearingTracker recently recorded an interview with four experts on cognitive decline, dementia, and hearing loss. Two of the researchers, Dr. Victoria Sanchez and Dr. Julia Sarant, are currently working on some pretty groundbreaking studies revolving around how hearing aids can improve your chances of staving off the effects of cognitive decline as you get older.

The first study, ACHIEVE (Aging and Cognitive Health Evaluation in Elders), found that using professionally fit hearing aids cut in half the rate of cognitive decline for the less healthy group. For both groups, hearing intervention was found to improve communication, social functioning, and to reduce loneliness, which other studies have shown are all factors that have been tied to cognitive status.

The second study, ENHANCE (Evaluation of Hearing Aids and Cognitive Effects), supports those from the ACHIEVE study and suggests that hearing aids may be able to forestall cognitive decline by as much as 3 years.

Both of these studies are ongoing, meaning that in reality, 3 years isn’t much time to study an ageing and mental health status, and there’s a lot more research to be done and questions that need to be answered.

Why you should prioritise hearing health

Moreover, hearing intervention improves communication, social functioning, and reduces loneliness—all factors tied to cognitive health. So, hearing aids aren’t just about improving hearing; they’re about preserving cognitive wellness.

However, addressing hearing loss isn’t solely the responsibility of audiologists. Primary care physicians play a crucial role in identifying hearing issues and referring patients for appropriate care. It’s a two-way street that requires collaboration and awareness.

Now, in the age of advanced technology and heightened awareness, there’s no excuse for neglecting hearing health. Modern hearing aids offer incredible benefits, from improved functionality to sleek designs. And with ongoing research and discussions, the stigma surrounding hearing loss is gradually eroding.

So, if you’ve noticed changes in your hearing or cognitive abilities, don’t wait—seek help. And remember, taking care of your hearing isn’t just about hearing better; it’s about safeguarding your cognitive wellness.

Harley Street Hearing offers professional hearing tests that can effectively diagnose hearing loss, and our clinical audiologists can devise suitable treatment solutions such as hearing aids to prevent further decline in your hearing abilities.

To learn more about the latest advancements in hearing aids, be sure to check out our video on the best hearing aids of the year.

Until next time, take care of your ears and your brain!

Does Hearing Loss Cause Dementia? The Evidence Explained…

Matthew Allsop is a Partner at Harley Street Hearing and the content creator for Hearing Tracker, where he shares his honest opinions on all things to do with hearing health and hearing aid technology. Hearing Tracker is the world’s first truly independent resource for hearing aid customers. You can view his video on hearing loss & dementia below.

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