If your hearing loss is mild to moderate, there are several hearing-aid styles currently available. The newest style is the fairly invisible Open-Ear-Fit aid (also called Open Ear Solution or Open Ear Technology), which consists of a custom-built tube that goes into the ear. This design is comfortable and won’t plug up the ear, a sensation that can be irritating. The Completely-in-the-Canal aid is also custom built and almost totally hidden from view. Both of these place the microphone in the ear canal and therefore simulate natural sound reception.

If your hearing loss is severe and you have trouble communicating in any situation, you may need an In-the-Ear or Behind-the-Ear aid; they are more visible, but they work better in loud environments.

Hearing aids cost anywhere from $2,500 to $3,500, depending on the style and where you buy them.