Hearing Aids

Struggling to hear in social situations, turning the volume up high on the television, thinking people are mumbling a lot, or finding it difficult to communicate with loved ones are all signs you could be suffering from hearing loss. 

During your hearing assessment we will examine your ear canals then use the latest equipment to test which sorts of sounds you can hear and which you may be struggling with. You will be played a series of different tones through some headphones and asked to respond when you can hear them. The results are then analysed to determine whether you could benefit from a hearing aid. 

The cost of hearing aids varies depending on which style and features you choose. At Cotswold Hearing we only offer high quality hearing aids that provide excellent value for money. Our range of hearing aids are priced between £599 and £1699.

The latest hearing aids come with a wide range of features to suit your lifestyle and budget. We will talk you through all the options and ensure you are fitted correctly to get the most out of your new hearing aid. 

The best hearing aids are those that meet your specific requirements. At Cotswold Hearing we offer a truly personalised service so that you can be confident of getting the best hearing aid for you. As a fully independent hearing care provider, we are able to offer hearing aids from all the top manufacturers. 

Hearing aids work by amplifying sound to help people with hearing loss hear more clearly. Here’s a simple breakdown of how they function:

Main Components of a Hearing Aid

Microphone – Picks up sound from the environment.
Amplifier (Processor) – Increases the volume and adjusts frequencies based on hearing needs.
Speaker (Receiver) – Delivers the amplified sound into the ear.
Battery – Powers the device (either disposable or rechargeable).

How They Process Sound

1️ Sound is captured by the microphone.
2️ The processor analyses and amplifies specific frequencies (e.g., boosting speech sounds while reducing background noise).
3️ The receiver/speaker delivers the adjusted sound into the ear.
4️ The brain receives and processes the sound, making speech and environmental noises clearer.

Types of Hearing Aids

Behind-the-Ear (BTE) – Sits behind the ear, suitable for mild to severe hearing loss.
In-the-Ear (ITE) – Custom-molded to fit in the ear, more discreet.
Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) – A hybrid hearing aid, offering natural sound quality. Privately this is the most commonly prescribed and worn – offering unrivalled comfort and discretion.
Completely-in-Canal (CIC) – Nearly invisible, but best for more specific types of hearing loss.

Modern hearing aids also come with features like Bluetooth, noise reduction, and tinnitus masking for extra comfort and clarity.

Hearing aids are made using advanced technology and precision engineering to ensure they fit comfortably and provide clear sound. Here’s how they’re made:

1. Design & Customisation

Hearing Test & Ear Molds – If a custom-fit hearing aid (like an in-the-ear model) is needed, an audiologist takes an impression of the ear.
Digital Design – The hearing aid shell is designed using 3D modelling software, ensuring a perfect fit.

2. Manufacturing Process

3D Printing or Moulding – Many hearing aid shells are 3D-printed for accuracy. Behind-the-ear (BTE) models are made from durable plastic.
Component Assembly – Tiny microphones, amplifiers, receivers, and processors are inserted into the shell.
Programming the Chip – A digital signal processor (DSP) is programmed to amplify and filter sounds based on the user’s hearing profile.

3. Testing & Quality Control

Sound Calibration – The hearing aid is tested in a soundproof environment to ensure proper amplification.
Durability Checks – The device is tested for moisture, dust, and shock resistance.

4. Final Fitting & Adjustments

Once the hearing aid is ready, an audiologist fine-tunes the settings for the user’s specific hearing loss.

Modern hearing aids also include Bluetooth, AI-based sound processing, and rechargeable batteries for improved performance. If you would like to understand more about the hearing aids we have to offer at Cotswold hearing please phone 08006696084 or email info@cotswoldhearing.co.uk

Hearing aids can significantly improve quality of life by enhancing communication, reducing stress, and improving overall well-being. Here’s how:

1. Better Communication & Relationships

Improved Conversations – Amplifies speech and reduces background noise, making it easier to understand others.
Stronger Relationships – Helps you stay engaged with family and friends, preventing frustration caused by miscommunication.
Workplace & Social Confidence – Enables better participation in meetings and social events.

2. Reduced Cognitive Decline & Mental Health Benefits

Prevents Brain Strain – Reduces the effort needed to hear, keeping the brain active.
Lowers Dementia Risk – Studies suggest that untreated hearing loss increases the risk of cognitive decline.
Less Stress & Anxiety – Hearing well can reduce social anxiety and stress in noisy environments.

3. Enhanced Safety & Independence

Awareness of Surroundings – Helps you hear alarms, doorbells, traffic, and conversations in public places.
Reduces Fall Risk – Good hearing supports better balance and spatial awareness.

4. Better Emotional Well-Being

Less Isolation & Loneliness – Staying connected to conversations and activities improves mood.
More Enjoyment of Sounds – Hear music, nature, and loved ones more clearly.

Boots Hearingcare and Specsavers are prominent UK retailers offering a variety of hearing aids to accommodate diverse hearing needs and budgets. Here’s an overview of their offerings:

Boots Hearingcare:

• Brands Offered: Boots provides hearing aids from Phonak, known for their advanced technology and reliability. They also offer hearing aids from a small number of other manufacturers but due to Boots and Phonak being owned by the same company you are highly likely to be prescribed a Phonak hearing aid at boots, but not necessarily the best hearing aid available on the market. 
• Types of Hearing Aids:
  • Invisible Hearing Aids: Designed to be discreet and hidden within the ear canal.
  • Rechargeable Hearing Aids: Equipped with built-in power units, eliminating the need for disposable batteries.
  • Bluetooth Hearing Aids: Allow direct streaming from devices like smartphones and TVs. 
• Price Range: Prices vary based on technology and features, starting from around £1995 for basic models to £3,995+ for advanced options with features like noise reduction and Bluetooth connectivity. 

Specsavers:

• Specsavers Advance Range: Their proprietary range includes models like Advance Star (budget-friendly) and Advance Elite (premium), offering advanced sound quality and customisation. 
• NHS Hearing Aids: In certain areas, Specsavers provides NHS-funded digital hearing aids, offering essential features at no cost to eligible individuals. 

Both retailers include free adjustments, repairs, and warranties, ensuring ongoing support for users. However, neither provider offers a full range of manufacturers as they are both tied to a particular manufacturer generally – specsavers with signia and Boots with Phonak… which means you may not be fitted with the best solution available on the market but the best solution they have available to them at the time. This is where Cotswold hearing shines as being independent, we can provide any hearing aid available on the market and are not tied to any one manufacturer. We do have extensive knowledge of the market and constantly assess what each manufacturer has to offer so you can be confident that when you visit one of our offices you will be provided with the best, most advanced solution on the market that suits your requirements. If you would like to arrange a consultation to discuss what we offer relative to the national high street chains please contact us on 08006696084 or email info@cotswoldhearing.co.uk or fill out our contact us form and we will endeavour to contact you as quickly as possible.

The best hearing aid is the one that best matches your individual needs, as hearing loss, lifestyle, and personal preferences vary from person to person. A high-tech model with Bluetooth and AI sound processing may be ideal for someone who enjoys social events and streaming music, while a discreet, in-ear model might suit someone looking for a nearly invisible option. Factors such as comfort, battery life, tinnitus management, and background noise reduction all play a role in determining the right fit. The most effective hearing aid is the one that enhances your daily life and helps you hear clearly in the environments that matter most to you. At Cotswold hearing we will discuss your needs and preference at your hearing test appointment and then advise you as to what options are available to you, enabling you to make an informed decision ensuring you gain the most benefit from your hearing aids.

Hearing aids whistle due to a phenomenon called feedback, which happens when sound from the hearing aid’s speaker is picked up by its microphone and re-amplified. This creates a high-pitched whistling or squealing sound. Here are some common causes:

1. Poor Fit or Loose Seal – If the hearing aid isn’t fitted/fitting properly, sound can escape and be picked up again by the microphone.   
2. Earwax Blockage – A buildup of earwax can reflect sound back into the hearing aid, causing feedback.   
3. High Volume Settings – If the volume is too high, excess sound can leak out and be re-amplified.   
4. Object Interference – Items like hats, scarves, or even hands near the ear can reflect sound back into the microphone.   
5. Malfunction or Damage – A faulty microphone or tubing can cause sound to be redirected incorrectly.

How to Fix It

Ensure a Proper Fit – Get the hearing aid adjusted by a professional.
Keep Ears Clean – Remove excess earwax to prevent sound reflection.
Adjust the Volume – Lowering it slightly may reduce feedback.
Check for Damage – Make sure there are no cracks or issues with the tubing.

If feedback persists, an audiologist can fine-tune the settings or recommend a different model with better feedback cancellation. At Cotswold hearing we are able to work with leading manufacturers who have some of the best feedback cancellation systems available, meaning you can be confident with our hearing aids feedback is a thing of the past.

Why are hearing aids so expensive?

Hearing aids are expensive due to a combination of advanced technology, research, manufacturing costs, and professional services. When purchasing privately the professional services and costs associated with the ongoing care are included when you purchase your hearing aids, so your are not just purchasing the aid you are purchasing the ongoing care and expertise of the professional you are working with. These costs are absorbed by the NHS should you choose the NHS as your provider. 

1. Advanced Technology & Miniaturisation

High-tech components – Modern hearing aids include AI-powered sound processing, noise reduction, Bluetooth connectivity, and tinnitus masking.
Miniaturisation – Powerful microprocessors and sensors must fit into tiny devices without compromising performance.

2. Research & Development

Hearing aid manufacturers invest millions in scientific research, clinical trials, and innovation to improve sound quality, comfort, and features.
Unlike consumer earbuds, hearing aids are medical devices and must meet strict regulations.

3. Customisation & Fitting

Hearing aids are not one-size-fits-all—each device is tailored to an individual’s hearing loss, ear shape, and lifestyle needs.
Professional hearing tests, fittings, adjustments, and aftercare services add to the overall cost.

4. Long-Term Support & Warranty

Most hearing aids include servicing, repairs, and software updates for several years.
Some providers offer lifetime aftercare, ensuring optimal performance over time.

Are There more Affordable Options?

NHS Hearing Aids – Free for eligible UK residents.
Entry-Level Private Hearing Aids – OTC online devices can be more affordable as they do not include the ongoing care and help that prescribed hearing aids include.
Payment Plans & Discounts – Many providers offer financing to spread the cost.

There are several insurance options available for hearing aids, depending on your location and provider. Here’s a breakdown of what’s available in the UK and other options for private coverage:

1. NHS Coverage (UK Residents)

Free (tax payer funded) Hearing Aids on the NHS – Provided to eligible individuals through an NHS referral. These include basic digital models but may not have premium features like Bluetooth.
Free Repairs & Replacements – The NHS covers maintenance and battery replacements, however if you lose your hearing aid there is likely to be a surcharge to replace it if you are not due a reassessment (likely to be every 5-6 years).

2. Private Health Insurance

Some private health insurance providers, like Bupa and WPA, offer partial coverage for hearing aids. However, most standard policies do not include them unless you have an add-on.

3. Hearing Aid Insurance Plans

Specialist hearing aid insurers, such as Assetsure or UK Hearing Care Insurance, provide policies covering:

• Loss and theft
• Accidental damage
• Repairs and replacements
• Worldwide coverage

4. Home & Contents Insurance

Most home insurance policies can cover hearing aids under personal belongings or gadget insurance (especially if they are lost or damaged outside the home). It’s worth checking with your provider – this tends to be the cheapest way to insure your private hearing aids.

Hearing aids come with extended manufacturer warranties, covering repairs, manufacturer fault and servicing (not for accidental damage or loss) for 4–5 years.

At Cotswold hearing we provide Independent help and advice to people who wish to improve their quality of hearing in the Swindon area. Based in Kembrey park in Pure offices (SN2 8BW) we are well positioned to provide the best in quality of care and value for money. Beating the competition in service levels and being conscientious with everything we do, we take great pride in ensuring every person we help with get the most out of their hearing aids and our vast swathe of knowledge and experience within the hearing care industry. In addition to our Swindon office, we also visit Malmesbury Opticians to provide a clinic every other week, Harper and Cooper Opticians in Cheltenham, Stow Opticians in Stow on the Wold, Woodstock Opticians in Woodstock nr Oxford, Watchfield Opticians near Faringdon.