Cochlear Implants vs. Hearing Aids

Cochlear implants and hearing aids help restore hearing or a sense of hearing in people with hearing loss/damage. While each serves a vital role in the world of audiology, they vary in function, technology, maintenance, and expense.

TYPE OF DEVICE

A cochlear implant is an electronic device that stimulates the auditory nerve, sending “sound” signals to the brain. The device has both external and internal (implanted) parts. The outer piece sits behind the ear and serves as a transmitter and receiver/stimulator, capturing sound, processing it, and then sending it to the implanted components of the device, which connect to the cochlear nerve. When the cochlear nerve is electrically stimulated, it can send signals to the brain. A cochlear implant requires minor surgery for the implantation of the device.

A hearing aid captures sound via a microphone or microphones. A computer chip digitally analyzes, processes and amplifies the sound before converting it back to an acoustic signal which is presented to the wearer’s ears. Hearing aids can be removed and inserted by the wearer and can vary in size and style from completely-in-the-canal  to behind-the-ear models.

IDEAL CANDIDATES

Typically, cochlear implants treat deafness or severe hearing loss that is not improved with hearing aids. Hearing aids usually treat mild, moderate, and some severe cases of hearing loss.

DEVICE ADJUSTMENTS AND MAINTENANCE

Following cochlear implant surgery, it will take time for the patient to learn to process the sounds the device is transmitting. Often this involves appointments with speech-language pathologists and audiologists. Like a hearing aid, wearers must protect the external portion of a cochlear implant from water and keep it clean and charged. So, cochlear implants also require day-to-day maintenance.

Hearing aids require day-to-day maintenance, as well as occasional tune-ups. They also have set lifespans and may need to be replaced periodically.

EXPENSE

Cochlear implant surgery is more expensive and can range from $60,000-$100,000. However, many health insurance companies will cover this surgery. Hearing aids can range from $1,000 to $5,000+. Some insurance companies offer benefits toward the acquisition of hearing aids.

To keep up with more news, tips, and information on hearing health for all ages, be sure to check out our other blog posts and follow our Roanoke and Crozet Facebook pages. Think hearing aids or cochlear implants may be a good fit for you or a loved one? Reach out to our team or request an appointment.