Hearing aid and glasses

Many people with hearing loss also wear glasses and wonder whether the two aids can be combined without any problems. The good news is that modern hearing aids are designed to be worn comfortably with visual aids. The key factors are the right design, careful fitting, and a few practical tips for everyday use. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the different types of hearing aids, their suitability for glasses wearers, and innovative solutions such as hearing glasses.

An overview of the different hearing aid designs

Hearing aids differ fundamentally in their design and the position in which they are worn on or in the ear. These differences have a direct influence on how well a hearing aid can be combined with glasses. The most common designs include behind-the-ear (BTE) devices, receiver-in-canal (RIC) devices, in-the-ear (ITE) devices, and hearing glasses developed specifically for glasses wearers.

Behind-the-ear devices consist of a housing that is placed behind the ear and connected to an earpiece in the ear canal via a thin sound tube. RIC devices are similar in design, but have a smaller housing because the speaker is located directly in the ear canal. In-the-ear devices, on the other hand, are placed completely in the ear canal or ear and do not require any space behind the ear. Each design has specific advantages and disadvantages that should be considered when making a selection.

Combining behind-the-ear hearing aids and glasses

Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids have long been the standard solution for many forms of age-related hearing loss and other types of hearing impairment. The housing sits directly behind the ear, where the earpiece of glasses also sits. This proximity can sometimes cause pressure points or a feeling of tightness, especially for people with smaller or narrow ears.

However, modern behind-the-ear devices are significantly more compact and lighter than older models. Many manufacturers have specifically designed their devices to take up less space behind the ear and to fit harmoniously with eyeglass frames. When fitted by a hearing care professional, the device can be adjusted so that it does not interfere with the eyeglass frames. Choosing narrow eyeglass frames also helps to make optimal use of the available space and increase wearing comfort.

When buying a behind-the-ear device, people who wear glasses should make sure that the housing is as flat and light as possible. Some models have special designs that better adapt to the anatomy of the ear and minimize conflict with the glasses frame. In practice, careful selection and adjustment show that behind-the-ear devices and glasses are also compatible with each other.

RIC hearing aids for spectacle wearers

RIC hearing aids, also known as receiver-in-canal or RITE (receiver-in-the-ear) devices, are a modern advancement of the behind-the-ear design. The main difference is that the speaker is not located in the housing behind the ear, but sits directly in the ear canal. This allows the housing behind the ear to be significantly smaller, which is particularly advantageous for people who wear glasses.

The reduced housing takes up less space behind the ear and thus reduces the risk of pressure points caused by the glasses frame. Nevertheless, even with RIC devices, care must be taken when putting on and taking off glasses to avoid accidentally dislodging or damaging the hearing aid. Another advantage of the RIC design is the often more natural sound quality, as the speaker is positioned closer to the eardrum.

For many eyeglass wearers, RIC devices are an excellent choice because they combine performance and comfort in a compact design. The thin wire connection between the housing and the speaker is virtually invisible and does not interfere with wearing glasses. Here, too, individual adjustment by a specialist is crucial to ensure optimal fit and wearing comfort.

In-ear hearing aids as a glasses-friendly alternative

In-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids are often considered the most comfortable solution for eyeglass wearers, as they are placed completely in the ear canal or ear mold and therefore do not take up any space behind the ear. This design includes various subtypes, including small CIC (completely-in-canal) devices, which sit deep in the ear canal and are virtually invisible, and larger ITC (in-the-canal) models, which remain partially visible in the outer ear.

The biggest advantage of in-the-ear devices for glasses wearers is that they can wear their glasses without any interference. There is no conflict for space behind the ear, and there is no risk of dislodging the hearing aid when putting on or taking off glasses. This makes in-the-ear devices a particularly flexible and uncomplicated solution.

However, ITE devices are not suitable for every type of hearing loss. In cases of severe hearing loss, the performance of these devices may not be sufficient, as there is less space available for powerful components. The anatomy of the ear canal also plays a role: if the ear canal is very narrow or unusually shaped, it can be difficult to manufacture a suitable device. In addition, due to their position in the ear canal, ITE devices can be more susceptible to contamination by earwax, which requires regular cleaning.

Hearing glasses as an integrated solution

Functionality and designs

Hearing glasses combine vision and hearing aids in a single device by integrating all hearing aid technology directly into the temples of the glasses. This solution eliminates the need for separate components behind the ear and offers a particularly discreet way to use both aids at the same time. There are two main types of hearing glasses: air conduction hearing glasses and bone conduction hearing glasses.

With air conduction hearing glasses, sound is conducted into the ear canal via an earmold and a thin tube, similar to conventional behind-the-ear devices. Bone conduction hearing glasses, on the other hand, transmit sound directly through the skull bone to the inner ear, which can be particularly beneficial for certain types of hearing loss. Both versions allow the hearing aid controls to be placed directly on the temple of the glasses, making them easier to use.

As an alternative to fully integrated hearing glasses, clip-on systems can also be used, whereby a small hearing aid is attached to an existing pair of glasses. This solution offers greater flexibility, as the glasses can be changed independently of the hearing aid.

Advantages and disadvantages of hearing glasses

Hearing glasses offer the distinct advantage of discretion, as the hearing aid is integrated into the temples of the glasses and is therefore barely noticeable to others. In addition, users only have to adjust, maintain, and wear one device, which can simplify everyday life. The direct connection between the visual and hearing aids ensures that both functions are always available together.

However, this combined solution comes with a significant drawback: if the device fails due to a defect or needs to be repaired, the user's vision and hearing are simultaneously impaired. This can cause considerable inconvenience in everyday life, especially if no replacement glasses or separate hearing aid are available. In addition, the selection of hearing glasses models is often smaller than that of separate hearing aids, and the purchase costs can be higher.

Some users find the technology in the temples unfamiliar due to the additional weight or volume, which can affect wearing comfort. If the prescription strength changes, both components may need to be adjusted, which means additional effort. Nevertheless, hearing glasses can be an attractive solution for certain user groups, especially when discretion and simplicity are paramount.

Practical tips for everyday life with hearing aids and glasses

Correct order when creating

For maximum comfort in everyday use, it is important to put them on in the correct order. First, place the hearing aid, making sure that it sits firmly and securely behind the ear. Then carefully slide the glasses over the ear so that the temple rests over the hearing aid without moving it or applying pressure.

When removing your glasses, it is advisable to pull them straight forward with both hands so that your hearing aids are not accidentally moved or knocked off. A little practice can help you to automate these movements and handle them more confidently in everyday life.

Choosing the right glasses

People who wear glasses with behind-the-ear (BTE) or receiver-in-canal (RIC) hearing aids should preferably choose glasses with narrow and lightweight temples, as these leave more space behind the ear and reduce pressure on the hearing aids. Flat temples can also be advantageous, as they can be adjusted to fit better around the hearing aid.

An optician should regularly check and adjust the temples of your glasses to ensure that they do not slip or press on your hearing aids. The length of the temples also plays a role: temples that are too short can cause the glasses to not fit securely, while temples that are too long can create unnecessary pressure.

Regular adjustment and maintenance

Both hearing aids and glasses should be checked and adjusted regularly by specialists. Changes in hearing or vision may require adjustments to the devices. It is also important to care for hearing aids in order to maintain their functionality and service life. Hearing aids should be cleaned regularly to prevent dirt buildup and malfunctions.

Glasses wearers should also ensure that their glasses are clean and properly adjusted to avoid vision problems that could cause additional strain. Good coordination between hearing care professionals and opticians can help to ensure that both aids are optimally matched.

Dealing with challenges

If pressure points or discomfort occur despite all adjustments, it is advisable to consult your hearing care professional or optician immediately. Often, minor adjustments or alternative solutions can resolve the issue. Replacing individual components, such as an earpiece or eyeglass temple, can also significantly improve wearing comfort.

When choosing the right hearing aid for people with hearing loss, the individual situation should always be taken into account. Not every design is equally suitable for every person, and comprehensive advice from specialists is essential in order to find the best solution.