• Benefits of Hearing Aids
• Device Selection
• Hearing Aid Components
• Hearing Aid Types
• Hearing Aid Styles
• Fitting & Dispensing
• Adjusting to Hearing Aid Use
• Follow-up & Maintenance

Benefits of Hearing Aids

Hearing loss is a gradual process and many people don't realize the extent to which their hearing has deteriorated until others point it out. Meanwhile, changes in their activities of daily living reflect their diminished ability to hear (such as turning up the volume on the TV or asking people to speak louder). Often, family members make compensations for the hearing impaired -- but at some point, even that is not enough, and the individual begins to shy away from social situations. The effects of untreated hearing loss can lead to anxiety, insecurity, isolation and depression.

With the technology available today, hearing aids can significantly enhance the quality of life for most people with hearing impairment. Hearing aids are designed to make sounds louder, and therefore easier to hear. Most hearing aids also include circuitry to keep sound from becoming too loud and to help reduce the effects of background noise.

Although they can't replicate normal hearing, hearing aids can dramatically improve one's awareness of surrounding sounds and voices. Those who opt for hearing aids experience better relationships with family and friends, higher self-esteem, improved mental health, and greater independence and security.
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Device Selection

Every hearing loss is different, and everyone's listening needs are unique. Hearing aids vary widely in their styles, sizes and types of circuit technology. Our staff provides assistance in helping you determine the best device to meet your individual needs and preferences.

Considerations for device selection include your specific hearing-loss characteristics, physical anatomy and dexterity, lifestyle, preferences in device style and circuitry, and cost.
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Hearing Aid Components

While there are many different types of hearing-aid technologies, four basic components are common to them all:

• Microphone: Receives sound and converts it into electrical impulses.
  
• Amplifier: Intensifies electrical impulses.
  
• Receiver: Translates those electrical impulses into louder sounds.
  
• Battery: Serves as power source for device.

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Hearing Aid Types

There are three basic types of hearing-aid technology:

• Conventional: Increases volume of all incoming sound with some minor adjustments possible.
  
  
• Programmable Analog: Programmed by computer to match your hearing loss. Has some flexibility for adjustment based on preferences and listening environment.
  
  
• Digital: Automatically adapts to multiple listening and sound environments. The most advanced and expensive device. Software is programmed by an audiologist to allow dramatic flexibility in adjustments. There are multiple channels for precise personal amplification, and directional microphones for management of background noise. The signal is clearer than that of other types of hearing aids, and free from distortion. Soft sounds are distinguished from loud sounds and clarity is enhanced.

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Hearing Aid Styles

After considering the type of circuitry, the next step is to determine the desired style, size and functions:

Completely-in-the-Canal (CIC) - Smallest type of device, almost invisible when placed in ear. For mild to moderate hearing losses. Most difficult to place and adjust.

In-the-Canal (ITC) - Larger than CIC, but still unobtrusive. Fits down in the canal of the ear and is relatively unnoticeable. Easier to use than CIC. For use with mild to moderate hearing impairment.

In-the-Ear (ITE) - Larger device, fills the "bowl" of the ear. Many features with larger sound amplifiers. Easier to use than CIC or ITC models. Meets a wide variety of hearing impairments.

Behind-the-Ear (BTE) - Circuitry and microphone fit behind the ear. Meets a wide range of hearing needs, including severe hearing impairments and dexterity problems. Largest of the standard hearing-device models. Durable, allows maximum power and flexibility in fitting. Very good for children.
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Fitting & Dispensing

When your hearing aid is ready, you will meet with the audiologist for a fitting of the device and introduction to its use. The audiologist will adjust your device for appropriate levels of loudness and tonal quality; teach you how to insert, use and care for the device; and offer advice and support in adjusting to life with your new hearing device.
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Adjusting to Hearing Aid Use

Like most people newly fitted with hearing aids, you will go through an adjustment period of adapting to a new way of hearing. The feel of the devices in your ears, the sound of your own voice, the detection of background noises, and the return of sounds you haven't heard in quite some time are just a few of the things that will take getting used to.

Just as with other assistive appliances such as bifocals or dentures, the more you use your hearing aids, the sooner you'll adapt to them. Before long, their use will become second nature and you will enjoy better hearing.
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Follow-up & Maintenance

Two to three follow-up visits with the audiologist will be provided to ensure proper fit and functioning after you've begun using your device, and to discuss any concerns or questions you may have. Your progress will be closely monitored to assure your comfort and success with your hearing instruments.

We also perform maintenance, repair and adjustment services as needed for optimal performance of your hearing device.
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