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One type of hearing aid that can be programmed by an audiologist is the analog programmable hearing aids. The analog programmable hearing aids contain a microchip that allows audiologists to program settings for different environments common to that individual. The hearing aid user may have programmed settings for a noisy work environment and quiet home environment.

During use, the hearing aid user can use a remote control or push a button to change the settings of the hearing aid to match the current hearing environment or circumstances. Analog programmable hearing aids do not automatically adjust like most digital hearing aids.

Why would someone want an analog programmable hearing aid instead of a digital hearing aid? Analog technology is generally cheaper than digital. Cost is a significant factor in many people’s hearing aid decision.

Analog programmable hearing aids have many of the same features as digital hearing aids. The life of an analog programmable hearing aid may be shorter than a digital hearing aid. When programming the hearing aid, the audiologist will consider the type of hearing loss and the person’s tolerance for loud noises.

Analog programmable hearing aids cost more than conventional analog hearing aids. Many hearing aid manufacturers no longer make analog hearing aids. This is probably due to the popularity and added features available with digital hearing aids.

Besides the differences in cost and features such as self-adjustment of settings, another difference between analog programmable hearing aids and digital hearing aids is how they process sound. Sound is processed by analog hearing aids by converting the sound to electrical signals which are then amplified.

Sound in converted to binary code, the language of computers, and amplified by digital hearing aids. The majority of digital hearing aids are also programmable.

Analog programmable hearing aids are available as behind-the-ear (BTE), in-the-ear (ITE), in-the-canal (ITC), and completely-in-canal (CIC) hearing aids. A hearing aid user may receive recommendations from the audiologist about which type of hearing aid would best suit the hearing aid user’s needs.

If someone is basing their decision on an analog hearing aid on the price, the hearing aid user may want to seek assistance in purchasing whatever hearing aid is best for the user. Medicare will not pay for hearing aids for adults. Some state disability organizations and non-profit organizations like Audient Alliance, offer financial assistance for the purchase of hearing aids.

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