laneHearing loss is an insidious condition that affects all aspects of an individual’s life. Enjoying television or movies means turning up the volume too loud for others or reading captions. In-person conversations become less enjoyable because of the effort required of the hearing-impaired listener. Phone conversations can be even more difficult, as visual cues are unavailable and the quality of the connection can vary. The inability to communicate effectively over the phone can be frustrating … [Read more...] about Can You Hear Them Now?
hearing aids
Which Hearing Aids are Right for Me?
The world of hearing aids can be intimidating. With the multiple manufacturers and models, it can feel akin to purchasing a vehicle. A minority of adults with hearing loss are actually fit with hearing aids, while the average length of time between noticing an issue and seeking treatment is seven years. Fortunately, licensed providers are available to act as guides, with guides being the key words. While providers are very knowledgeable and reliable sources, the question of which type of … [Read more...] about Which Hearing Aids are Right for Me?
Understanding the Finances of Hearing Healthcare
Studies show that the average timespan from a person realizing they have trouble with their hearing to finally seeking help is seven years. One of the biggest reasons people wait is concern about cost. Information about hearing aids varies widely online and insurance benefits can be difficult to navigate. But taking care of your ears doesn’t need to be scary. While no two offices operate identically, the overall journey is largely the same. Hearing Exam The first step is always to obtain an … [Read more...] about Understanding the Finances of Hearing Healthcare
Hearing Aid Myth Busters
While millions of people are affected by hearing loss, it remains a disability that does not receive much focus. The general public receives very little education on the effects of hearing loss or how to address it. They must seek out answers on their own. This is reflected in many of the common questions patients ask about hearing loss and hearing aids. A prior article answered the most common ones. Here are a few more frequent inquiries. How Often Should I Wear My Hearing Aids? As a rule … [Read more...] about Hearing Aid Myth Busters
Leaping Ahead with Lumity
Hearing aids evolve at an incredible rate, with the ultimate goal of improving sound quality and clarity. The other goal is making the hearing aids as user friendly as possible. Manufacturers consistently survey their customers to determine what types of innovations are most desirable. Phonak recently launched a new technology platform. It’s called Lumity, and patients are stating that the improvements are very noticeable. Sleeker The most common concern patients have, even when they love … [Read more...] about Leaping Ahead with Lumity
How to Care for a Loved One with Hearing Aids
According to the Labor of Bureau of Labor Statistics, 16% of the population provided eldercare between 2017 and 2018. Combine that with one in three people over the age of 65 having a hearing loss, and there is a very good chance you are or will be caring for someone with hearing aids. Hearing care professionals will diagnose the hearing loss and fit the devices. But, once fit, a majority of the daily use and maintenance falls to the wearer. Or, by extension, the caregiver. It is therefore … [Read more...] about How to Care for a Loved One with Hearing Aids
Making Sure Hearing Aids Work for You
As audiologists, our main goal is always to improve our patient’s safety and quality of life. Typically, this is done through the fitting of hearing aids. Surveys have shown that one major barrier to accessing hearing aids is cost. In an effort to help address this barrier, Congress recently granted permission for hearing devices to be sold over the counter. Now it can be even more challenging for patients to know which option best suits their needs. Fortunately, you do not have to figure it out … [Read more...] about Making Sure Hearing Aids Work for You
Understanding the Hearing Aid Journey
Do you miss hearing the sounds of the birds? Are the voices of your grandchildren becoming increasingly difficult to understand? Do you find yourself constantly turning up the TV or radio just to make out what’s being said? Hearing loss is a normal part of growing older, and it can be very scary. It doesn’t have to be. The process of getting hearing aids is painless, and an audiologist will work their hardest to help improve your quality of life and allow you to interact with the world around … [Read more...] about Understanding the Hearing Aid Journey
Understanding the Total Package of Hearing Aid Purchases
When a person purchases hearing aids, they are making an investment in their lifestyle. Hearing aids are able to expand friendships, close relationships and even the non-social activities you engage in. I have been told by many patients hearing aids changed their life! Musicians are amazed that they are able to hear the parts of music (and their own voice while singing) better than they could have imagined. So, what is the difference between a purchase of stock internet hearing aids and hearing … [Read more...] about Understanding the Total Package of Hearing Aid Purchases
Common Questions for Your Audiologist
Going to a heath care professional can be a stressful situation. You have chosen to ask for a professional opinion about your health and want to get the best possible information during the appointment. Treatment for a physical issue you are having is a very personal subject and you want to feel that you are receiving individualized recommendations. When you go to any health care professional, it is important to be prepared before the appointment. Write down possible questions you have. They … [Read more...] about Common Questions for Your Audiologist
