Why is hearing healthcare so important?

• Researchers at Johns Hopkins found that untreated hearing loss increased the risk for developing dementia by 50% and depression by 40% in just 5 years when compared to those without hearing loss.

• The greater the degree of hearing loss, the more rapid the cognitive decline, the poorer quality of life and the greater the social, emotional, and communication difficulties.

• A number of recent studies have pointed to a link between hearing loss and cognitive health in aging individuals.  It has been shown that those with hearing loss are at higher risk for social isolation, depression, memory problems, and early diagnosis of dementia and Alzheimer's.  Treating hearing loss with well fit hearing aids may be an important component in your cognitive health.

- More information about cognition and Hearing Loss

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How do I know if I need to get my hearing tested?

You should get a hearing test if you answer yes to one or more of the following questions.

• Do you have trouble hearing in the presence of background noise?

• Do you have trouble hearing over the phone

• Do you have a "better ear" for listening

• Do others complain the TV is too loud?

• Do you miss hearing your phone ring or the doorbell chime?

• Do you have trouble following a conversation when two or more people are talking at the same time?

• Do you have to frequently ask people to repeat themselves?

• Do you get confused about where sounds are coming from?

• Do you have difficulty hearing and understanding specific voices (children, women with high pitch voices)

• Do you have trouble understanding speakers when they are far away from you, perhaps in church or a meeting?

• Do you feel like people are mumbling?

• Do you avoid social activities because you can't hear well?

• Do you hear frequent hissing, ringing, or buzzing in one or both ears?

• Do you have trouble hearing your alarm clock, oven timer, or turn signal?​

 

Why see an Audiologist?

An audiologist is a licensed health professional with a Master’s or Doctorate degree.  The audiologist is the highest-trained individual in the diagnosis, testing, evaluation, and rehabilitation of non-medical hearing loss.

- ADA Audiology Resource Sheet

 

How much do hearing aids cost?

High quality hearing aids function not only to amplify sound, but also to reduce background noise and clean and deliver high quality sound.  These aids are regulated by the FDA and the companies that sell them are held accountable to verify their advertised claims with solid evidence-based research. These hearing aids generally cost between $1,300-$3,000 per aid, depending on the level of technology selected.  This is an investment in your overall health and cognitive well-being.  Patient financing is available through Care Credit

 

How long is the life of a hearing aid?

Recommended hearing aids are flexible and can be reprogrammed for changes in hearing over time. The life of a hearing aid is typically about 4-5 years if they are well cared for. It can be expected that advancements in technology may be able to significantly improve hearing by that time.

 

Can I get aids that are visually discreet?

Hearing aids come in many shapes and sizes, many of which are very cosmetically appealing.  Recommended options can be discussed at your hearing aid evaluation

 

What else should I know about hearing aids?

Hearing aids will not correct hearing like glasses correct vision. Don’t expect 20/20 hearing, but they will help you hear in many situations. Your new hearing aids may require follow-up visits for programming adjustments by your provider. Adjusting to hearing aids takes time and perseverance, but it is worth it. You may have a love/hate relationship with your hearing aid at first, as no one is enthusiastic about getting a hearing aid. But after a while, you will not want to be without it.

 

What is Noise-induced hearing loss and when does it occur?

Noise-induced hearing loss may happen slowly over time or suddenly. Being exposed to everyday noises, such as listening to very loud music, being in a noisy work environment, or using a lawn mower, can lead to hearing loss over many years.  Tiny hair cells in the middle ear are damaged when assaulted by loud noise. Once those hair cells are destroyed they cannot be replaced.  A noise-induced hearing loss is the most common cause for its occurrence in our society and it’s completely preventable. Custom hearing protection can provide a comfortable, easy to use option to protect your ears from further noise damage.  Ask the audiologist about custom noise plugs.

 

What can I do if a loved one has a hearing loss?

Tips for Communicating with a person with hearing loss:

• Face the person directly

• Get attention first

• Turn down background noise when possible

• Re-phrase if you are not understood

• Speak clearly at a moderate pace

• Don't shout

• Use facial expressions and gestures

• Be patient