Cochlear implants for adults

Cochlear implants can provide access to sounds you no longer hear, even in noisy environments. Learn how they may be able to help you.

Kenneth laughs with coworkers as he wears his cochlear implants

What you'll find on this page

  • Stories from people who have transformed their lives with a cochlear implant.
  • Guidance on whether a cochlear implant can help you.
  • Information about the benefits of cochlear implants.

When you live with hearing loss, you miss more than just your hearing. If you have moderate to profound hearing loss, a cochlear implant can help you regain your connection to life.

Recipients say cochlear implants can improve their ability to talk on the phone, listen to music and socialise with family and friends. People also say they feel safer because they can hear alarms and traffic when crossing the road.

"The quality of the sound for me is very crisp, very clear. I've never known anything like it. Just to be able to walk along and actually enjoy the wind blowing through the trees. It puts a smile on your face because you're actually then realising what you've missed."

- Diane M, Cochlear™ Nucleus® recipient

Can a cochlear implant help you?

For some people with hearing loss, using hearing aids is like listening to a badly tuned radio. It may be loud enough, but the words aren't clear.

Cochlear implants can help adults with moderate to profound sensorineural hearing loss in one or both ears who aren't getting enough benefit from hearing aids.

What are the benefits?

Cochlear implants are an established treatment option designed to provide a better hearing experience. The benefits of better hearing can include:

  • better understanding of speech1

  • more employment opportunities2

  • improved safety.3-6

A hearing health professional who specialises in all types of hearing technology, including implants, will know if you could benefit from a cochlear implant.

 

Find a hearing implant specialist near you

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More information

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When hearing aids aren't enough

Do you wear hearing aids but still struggle to hear? A hearing implant may be the answer.

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A woman sits with a boy wearing a cochlear implant

Implant preparation and procedures

Learn how hearing and treatment options are assessed and understand what's involved in hearing implant surgery.

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Types and causes of hearing loss

Knowing more about the types and causes of hearing loss will help you feel confident to make the right choice for you or your loved one.

Read more

Disclaimer

This content is intended for professionals. If you are a consumer, please seek advice from your health professional about treatments for hearing loss. Outcomes may vary, and your health professional will advise you about the factors which could affect your outcome. Always follow the directions for use. Not all products are available in all countries. Please contact your local Cochlear representative for product information.

For a full list of Cochlear’s trademarks, please visit our Terms of Use page.

References

  1. Gaylor JM, Raman G, Chung M, et al. Cochlear Implantation in Adults. A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. JAMA Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2013;139(3):265–272.
  2. Monteiro, E., Shipp, D., Chen, J., Nedzelski, J., & Lin, V. 2012. Cochlear implantation: A personal and societal economic perspective examining the effects of cochlear implantation on personal income. Journal of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, 41(4) Manrique-Huarte R et al (2016) Treatment for hearing loss among the elderly: Auditory outcomes and impact on quality of life. Audiol Neurootol, 21 Suppl 1:29-35.
  3. Cochlear Limited. D1296247. CLTD 5620 Clinical Evaluation of Nucleus 7 Cochlear Implant System. 2017, Oct.
  4. Fitzpatrick EM, Leblanc S. Exploring the factors influencing discontinued hearing aid use in patients with unilateral cochlear implants. Trends in Amplification. 2010, 14; (4): 199–210.
  5. Crowson MG, Semenov YR, Tucci DL, Niparko JK. Quality of life and cost-effectiveness of cochlear implants: A narrative review. Audiol Neurotol. 2017, 22: 236 – 258.
  6. Ng ZY, Lamb B, Harrigan S, Archbold S, Athalye S, Allen S. Perspectives of adults with cochlear implants on current CI services and daily life. CI International. 2016, 17; (suppl) 1, 89-93.