Powerful and discreet hearing aids offer solution to those with severe challenges

Marcus Lum

Elderly individuals with severe hearing loss who cannot benefit from regular hearing aids can now regain their hearing thanks to the first high-power in-ear hearing aid introduced in Hong Kong, said Danny Cheung Yat-yiu, a specialist in audiometry and hearing technologies.

The aid, which features a "136dB output," was developed by Cheung and his research team in response to a recent World Health Organization report.

The report, released in February, said over 5 percent of the global population faces hearing loss, with nearly half of those over 75 experiencing hearing difficulties. Cheung said the WHO estimates suggest that by 2050, nearly 2.5 billion people will have some degree of hearing loss, with at least 700 million requiring hearing rehabilitation.

"The in-ear hearing aids include voice recognition, memory functions, and the ability to adjust human voice output," Cheung said.

"These features cater to the unique needs of individuals with light, moderate, severe, and profound deafness."

He said traditional in-ear hearing aids have three major limitations - restricted output power, unclear speech, and suitability primarily for those with light to severe hearing loss.

Cheung also mentioned that many elderly individuals are reluctant to use hearing aids.

He said this reluctance often stems from a belief that their hearing problems are not serious enough, and from concerns about the noise produced by traditional hearing aids.

Also, Cheung said the size and shape of conventional hearing aids lead to fears of social stigma.

He added that the new high-power in-ear hearing aids are small, discreet, and resemble wireless earphones.

"I hope this new technology can give deaf individuals their ears back and help them lead normal lives," Cheung said.

Eric Tang Chi-ho, a specialist in Otorhinolaryngology and a clinical assistant professor at the Chinese University, said those with hearing impairments who have never used in-ear hearing aids should start by wearing them for just a few hours each day to "get used" to the devices and develop a habit of wearing them.

Tang also advised individuals to limit prolonged headphone use while listening to music, as well as keeping the volume at medium to low levels to prevent further hearing loss.

He added that managing health conditions - such as diabetes and high blood pressure - is also essential, as such conditions can adversely affect hearing.

marcus.lum@singtaonewscorp.com