The League of Iowa Human & Civil Rights Agencies

WASHINGTON -- They're not your grandpa's hearing aids. Today's newest models range from the completely invisible - it sits deep in the ear canal for months at a time - to Bluetooth-enabled gadgets that open cell phones and iPods for hearing-aid users. Now the maker of that invisible hearing aid is going a step further - attempting a swim-proof version. About 60 swimmers begin testing a next-generation Lyric next month, to see if stronger coatings can withstand at least three swims a week, allowing the device to repel the water that short-circuits regular hearing aids. If so, expect to see it marketed to active seniors who increasingly find the pool a gentler form of exercise than pounding the pavement.

[more]