There are two different types of hearing aids: daily wear, which are inserted and removed daily, and extended wear. Within the daily wear category, we have three different types and many different styles. In the extended wear category, there is only one option, Lyric.
What are Lyric Hearing Aids
Lyric is the only FDA approved long-term wear hearing aid. The FDA has limited its use to no longer than 120 days at a time. Lyric is different than the daily wear devices for many reasons. It is the only hearing aid that has a battery lasting up to three months before fully depleting. It is also placed approximately 5mm from the eardrum, which gives it many advantages compared to other devices. Due to the depth of insertion, the device does not have to increase the volume nearly as much as other devices, and it is invisible to other people around you. Due to the deep placement of Lyric and the advanced digital sound processing, Lyric sounds natural compared to daily wear hearing aids.
Lyric is very unique and tends to require the least amount of hassle to deal with. It is highly recommended for people who lose their hearing aids, or don’t have the mental capacity or dexterity to deal with hearing aids on a daily basis. Daily wear hearing aids require manipulation of the device to replace the battery, clean, maintain, insert and remove. People with dexterity problems can find this difficult, and using a hearing aid that stays in your ear for three months at a time can be the solution.
The Pros and Cons of Lyric Hearing Aids
As nice as it sounds to have a long-term hearing aid, there are both advantages and drawbacks to Lyric. If you visit a local provider who works with Lyric, you can get more information about health concerns and requirements to wear the device. Lyric is a hassle-free device but cannot be inserted or removed by the patient. When the device stops working (e.g., the battery dies) then you have to go back to the provider to have it removed and replaced with a new device. As you can imagine, you will probably go through 4-5 devices in a year’s time, and having to purchase new units can get expensive. Lyric is sold on a subscription basis so you get as many devices as you need to be successful for a year.
Lyric Technology
Lyric technology is actually based on older technology; what makes it special is the ability of the battery to last three months. The technology used in most newer hearing aids is more advanced and includes additional features to help out in loud environments. New hearing aids are also more adaptive and have the ability to pair (via Bluetooth®) with other devices. Lyric is basic, but also uses our natural sound collecting ability (the ear) to work.
Is Lyric right for you? There are many people who love their Lyric devices, but there are also many people who prefer more traditional hearing aids. Schedule a consultation with a Lyric provider to weigh your options and make your choice.