Hearing aid technology is constantly evolving, and it has improved leaps and bounds over the years. Today’s hearing aids are tiny computers with wireless and Bluetooth connectivity built in, which opens the door to a whole family of accessories that can genuinely transform your day-to-day hearing.
The right accessory can be the difference between coping in a tricky situation and truly enjoying it. Here are the ones we recommend most often at our Adelaide clinics.
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TV Streamers
Still the most loved accessory we fit. A TV streamer connects to the back of your television and sends the sound directly into your hearing aids, beautifully clear and at your own volume.
That last part is the magic for households: you can turn your TV sound up in your hearing aids while the rest of the family keeps the room volume where they like it. You can even mute the television completely and have it play only through your hearing aids. Peace restored on movie night!
Remote Microphones and Table Microphones
A remote microphone is a small device your conversation partner wears, or that sits in the middle of a table, streaming their voice directly into your hearing aids over the noise around you.
These are brilliant for meetings, lectures, restaurants and car trips, anywhere distance and background noise gang up on you. Table microphones go a step further for group settings, intelligently picking up whoever is speaking around the table. If meetings are your battleground, pair one with our tips for hearing better in work meetings.
Your Smartphone: The Accessory You Already Own
Most modern hearing aids connect wirelessly to your mobile phone, and honestly, hearing aids and smartphones are a match made in heaven.
From the manufacturer’s app you can discreetly change programs and volume, check your battery level, and fine-tune your sound without touching your hearing aids. Phone calls, music, podcasts and video calls can stream directly into your hearing aids like a wireless headset, with many models offering true hands-free calling.
Apps can do some remarkable extras too, depending on the brand: find a misplaced hearing aid, track your listening activity, and even geo-tag your favourite settings to locations. Ask us what your hearing aids (or your next ones) can do.
Tinnitus Support
If you live with tinnitus, your hearing aids can double as a relief tool. A tinnitus program plays gentle masking sounds, controlled from your phone, and you can add relaxation guides, music, podcasts and audiobooks to take your focus away from the ringing. Read more about tinnitus and hearing aids, or explore our tinnitus treatment options in Adelaide.
Remote Controls
Prefer real buttons over apps? A remote control is just like a TV remote but for your hearing aids: a small, portable device for changing volume or programs discreetly, without fumbling for the tiny buttons on the aids themselves. It is a great option if your fingers are not as nimble as they used to be, or if you simply do not want a smartphone involved.
Chargers and Power Accessories
With most of our clients now choosing rechargeable hearing aids, the charger has become an accessory in its own right. Compact portable chargers can top up your hearing aids on the go, with many holding multiple full charges, perfect for travel, camping trips and busy weekends. See our guide to caring for your rechargeable hearing aids to get the most from yours.
Still using battery-powered aids? We stock all sizes and offer convenient online battery orders with our batteries and repair service.
Looking Ahead: Auracast is Coming
The next generation of Bluetooth, LE Audio with Auracast, is beginning to appear in hearing aids and public venues, letting you tune into broadcast audio in places like cinemas, airports and lecture halls. We have written a full guide to LE Audio and Auracast and what it means for hearing aids in Adelaide. It is an exciting space to watch when choosing your next hearing aids.
Which Accessory is Right for You?
The honest answer: it depends entirely on your life. A TV lover, a committee member, a cafe regular and a grandparent on weekly video calls will each benefit from different tools. That is exactly the conversation we love having.
As independent audiologists, we fit accessories from every major manufacturer, so our only agenda is finding what genuinely helps you. Bring your hearing aids in, tell us about the situations that still frustrate you, and we will show you what is possible. Many accessories can be demonstrated right there in the clinic.
Book an appointment online or call us with any questions. We are always happy to chat about what might work for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do hearing aid accessories work with every hearing aid?
No, accessories are generally brand-specific, so a streamer or remote microphone needs to match your hearing aid manufacturer. Bring your hearing aids in and we will confirm what is compatible.
Can I trial an accessory before buying?
In many cases, yes. We can demonstrate accessories in the clinic so you can hear the difference before deciding. Just ask when you book.
Do I need a smartphone to use hearing aid accessories?
Not at all. TV streamers, remote microphones and remote controls all work without a phone. A smartphone simply adds extra convenience and features if you have one.
Will accessories work with my next hearing aids?
Usually accessories are designed for particular generations of hearing aids, so they may need updating when you change devices. We will always let you know what carries over before you upgrade.
