Our natural abilities start showing signs of deterioration as we grow old. The first 2 abilities which need attention are eyesight and hearing. While buying a pair of spectacles is easy, it’s not the same in the case of Hearing aids.
There are many factors like lifestyle which need to be considered while buying Hearing aids. Through this article, we will attempt to give an idea to our Indian readers about the Hearing Aid prices in India and the features.
Companies Manufacturing Digital Hearing Aids
Though there are more than 15 Companies manufacturing Digital Hearing Aids. In this article we will cover 3 companies:
1. Starkey Laboratories India Pvt Ltd.
The Indian subsidiary of Starkey Hearing Technologies has it’s headquarters in Minnesota, USA.
2. GN Hearing India Pvt Ltd.
The Indian subsidiary of the GN Group has it’s headquarters in Bellarup, Denmark. The Hearing Aids are sold under the brand ReSound GN.
3. Rexton
Rexton is a brand owned by the Sivantos Group of Companies. The manufacturers of Siemens and Signia brand of Hearing aids. The Sivantos Group has it’s headquarters in Singapore.
Types of Digital Hearing Aids
The Digital Hearing Aids offered by the Companies can be broadly classified into 2 types:
- Trimmer programmable Digital Hearing Aids
- Software programmable Hearing aids
What Is A Trimmer Programmable Digital Hearing Aid?
A hearing aid which is programmed or adjusted by turning the Trimmers (controls) is called a Trimmer programmable Hearing aid.
Digital Hearing aids needs programming. Programming means adjusting the Hearing aids to suit the user. Every individual’s hearing loss is different. Hence the Hearing aid has to be adjusted by the Audiologist as per the Audiogram of the user.
How is a Trimmer Hearing Aid programmed?
In trimmer programmable Hearing aids, the manufacturer provides “trimmers” or tiny controls which are adjusted or set by using a suitable screwdriver. The setting helps to adjust the Hearing aid as per the users Hearing loss. These types of Hearing aids have limited controls for setting/programming and are considered as economy Hearing aids.
Trimmer Hearing Aid Prices
Starkey’s Trimmer model Fortune ⃰ includes BTE, ITC and CIC and are available under Rs.13, 500.00 as per the company’s current hearing aid prices.
Resound’s Trimmer models is called Match ⃰ and includes a range of BTE’s, ITC’s and CIC’s with various features and power outputs. The Match range is available under Rs.13, 100.00 as per the company’s current hearing aid prices.
Rexton has a wide range of economy Hearing aids. The Company has eliminated trimmer programming and has provided 3 pre-set programs in the BTE’s. As per the Company, these pre-set programs suits majority of the Hearing loss cases. The BTE model is called Arena ⃰ and is available under Rs.9, 500.00 as per the company’s current hearing aid price list.
Rexton also has a “ready to fit” ITC & CIC called Inox ⃰. This model is programmed through a mobile App. The Inox ⃰ is priced at Rs. 15,500.00.
2. What Is A Software Programmable Hearing aid?
Digital Hearing aids which require a computer or an App to program or adjust the settings is called a software programmable Hearing aid.
How is a Software Programmable Hearing aid programmed?
Every Hearing Aid manufacture provides the dispenser with a proprietary software through which their Hearing aids can be programmed. The Audiologist/dispenser feeds the hearing thresholds of the patient as per the Audiogram in the software provided. The software adjusts the output of the hearing aid accordingly.
Range of Software Programmable Hearing Aids
Software programmable Hearing aids are popularly known as Programmable Hearing aids. Every Company has over 50 models available at any given time. The intention of every Company is to offer Hearing aids to suit all budgets.
Digital Hearing aids come with a host of features. The more the features the higher the price. Readers are advised to study the features with respect to their needs and lifestyle.
Users are advised to go through the brief explanation of the basic features to help them make the right choice.
The Affordable Range of Hearing Aids
Though the meaning of the word affordable differs for everyone, for ease of understanding we will consider Digital Hearing Aid prices in India costing around Rs.40, 000.00. The Invisible Hearing aid prices in India are a little higher than conventional Hearing aids of the same platform.
Starkey’s affordable models are Axio ⃰, Aries Pro ⃰, Aries ⃰ and e Series 2 ⃰. These models are available in all styles.
Resound GN’s affordable models are Vea1 ⃰, Vea2 ⃰, Vea3 ⃰, Enya 2 ⃰, Enya 3 ⃰ as well as the Magna ⃰ and Enzo5 ⃰. Similar to other companies, these models are available in all styles.
Rexton’s affordable models are Targa ⃰, Accord ⃰, Joy ⃰, Sterling ⃰ and Mosaic E1 ⃰. These models are available in all styles.
Premium range of Digital Hearing aids
Digital technology has made a lot of progress, Hearing aids come with a lot of features which make listening effortless and near natural. Readers are advised to study the available features in advanced Hearing aids.
The Digital Hearing Aid price for advanced Hearing aids starts from Rs.40, 000.00 to around Rs.3, 00,000.00. These Hearing aids have the latest technology and features. Some Companies do offer free accessories on the purchase of binaural fitting or 2 Hearing aids for use in both the ears.
Starkey, Resound GN and Rexton have about 40 models each in various styles, features and power range. It would be difficult to cover all the models of each company. The Hearing Aid price list is available on request.
The prices and models covered in this article are for information and academic knowledge. Our readers should get an idea about the availability of the range. Readers are advised to consult the Audiologist/dispenser who is knowledgeable and an authority on Hearing aids. The Hearing aids should be tried out and decided in consultation with the Audiologist.
⃰ All models mentioned in the article are proprietary names of the respective Companies.
