The physical space behind the ear can become congested when trying to accommodate both the receiver unit of a Behind-the-Ear (BTE) hearing aid and the temple arm of a pair of eyeglasses. This common challenge can lead to discomfort, pressure points, or the accidental dislodging of one or both devices. Fortunately, individuals do not have to choose between hearing clearly and seeing clearly, as several physical adjustments and equipment modifications exist. The most direct solutions involve adjusting the placement technique, optimizing the eyeglass frame design, or selecting a different style of hearing aid.
Strategic Placement and Technique
The most immediate and cost-free solution involves establishing a precise order and method for placing the two devices. The correct sequence minimizes the risk of interference and ensures both devices sit securely. It is recommended to put your glasses on first, as their fixed frame is more difficult to adjust than the hearing aid casing.
Once the glasses are secured, the hearing aid should be carefully placed. The hearing aid’s main body should be situated between the glasses arm and the outer ear, resting snugly against the skin. This arrangement positions the glasses arm slightly outward, ensuring the hearing aid is not being pressed too hard against the head. Users should practice this motion in front of a mirror to develop muscle memory.
When removing the glasses, use both hands and pull them straight forward. Avoid any upward or downward tilting motion that could snag or displace the hearing aid. Tilting the frames is a primary cause of accidentally knocking the hearing aid off the ear, which can result in damage or loss.
Optimizing Eyeglass Frames
Selecting or modifying the eyeglass frame is an effective way to create necessary space behind the ear. Frames with thin wire earpieces are more compatible with BTE hearing aids than those with thick, bulky plastic temples. The slimmer profile of metal or thin acetate frames takes up less room and reduces the bulk that causes pressure and discomfort.
The temple arm design also plays a role in comfort, with straight temples providing an easier fit than those with a pronounced curve. Materials like titanium or lightweight plastics offer comfort by reducing the feeling of heaviness on the ears. These lighter materials are less likely to cause irritation where the frames make contact with the hearing aid.
Optometrists can professionally adjust the temple arms by heating and bending the material to create a customized gap around the ear. This allows the hearing aid to sit closer to the head without being pushed out by the glasses frame. For additional security, specialized accessories such as retention clips or sports locks can be attached to the hearing aid, connecting it to the glasses frame and preventing slippage.
Considering Alternative Hearing Aid Styles
If adjustments to placement and frame design do not resolve comfort issues, switching to a different style of hearing aid can eliminate the conflict entirely. BTE and Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) models rest behind the ear, where the glasses sit. While modern RIC devices are often slim-profile, they still occupy some of the same physical space.
Hearing aid styles that fit entirely within the ear canal or outer ear completely bypass the area of conflict. These include In-the-Ear (ITE), In-the-Canal (ITC), and Completely-in-the-Canal (CIC) models. These custom-molded devices sit inside the ear, leaving the space behind the ear free for the glasses’ temple arms.
While these in-the-ear styles may not be suitable for all degrees of hearing loss, they offer a permanent solution to the physical interference with glasses. Consulting with an audiologist can determine if an ITE or CIC model provides sufficient amplification while solving the issue of wearing both devices comfortably.