Behind-the-Ear (BTE)
A behind-the-ear hearing aid is a style of device in which the main electronics sit in a small casing that rests behind the ear. Sound is processed in this unit and delivered to the ear canal through a thin tube connected to a custom-fitted ear mold or a soft dome tip. BTE devices accommodate a wide range of hearing loss, from mild to profound.
They are often recommended for children because the casing is durable and the ear mold can be replaced as the child grows without replacing the entire device. BTE hearing aids typically carry a larger battery, which means longer battery life and easier handling for people with limited dexterity. Modern BTE devices include wireless connectivity, rechargeable battery options, and directional microphone systems.
In Ontario, BTE hearing aids are among the styles eligible for funding through the Assistive Devices Program (ADP) when prescribed by a registered audiologist.
