 A common concern among new hearing aid users is whether the devices will get in the way of their eyeglasses. The need to wear an extra item on your head can be daunting. Luckily for you, hearing aids do not always interfere with your eyeglasses. Most people are able to wear them with comfort and ease.
Hearing and Vision Impairments The inability to hear or see are some of the most common health problems. About 38 million people in the U.S. have some range of hearing loss. One out of three Americans between 65-74 years old experience hearing loss due to a number of reasons which are not simply limited to excessive exposure to noise, aging (presbycusis), and genetic factors. For example, certain medications have also been linked to causing hearing loss. Your vision, similar to hearing, also worsens as you age. About 12 million people across the country, who are over 40 years of age, have some form of vision problem. Some of the most prevalent sources of vision loss are macular degeneration and complications with vision due to age-related cataracts, diabetes, and glaucoma. Anyone who loses their eyesight is also prone to lose their peripheral vision, experience sensitivity to light, have a reduced depth of vision, and have color blindness. All of these complications interfere with a person’s ability to accomplish daily tasks and live their life to the fullest. How Hearing Loss and Vision Loss Impact You Having a hearing loss can drain so much of your energy. That energy depletes even quicker when you also need to focus on seeing. During the pandemic, many people struggle to communicate due to face masks. The brain becomes strained and overworked when it does not have access to all visual cues or clear speech sounds. This energy that is used to communicate and hear is causing listening fatigue. The inability to hear can lead to poor quality of life by causing embarrassment and social isolation. If you were unable to see clearly while driving or hear important information during an appointment, would you seek help? Most people immediately get help for their vision loss when they become fully aware that there’s a problem, but it’s rare that they seek professional help for their hearing loss. It may be due to social stigma, embarrassment, or denial. Hearing loss also happens gradually, so a person who experiences it may not realize anything is wrong until much later in life. Many people with hearing loss describe others’ speech as “mumbling” and “soft-spoken”, or blame a bustling restaurant for their inability to hear during a conversation. These may actually be signs of the early stages of hearing loss. Many people wait years until the hearing is at its worst, or when family and friends begin to notice, to get a hearing test and seek help. 5 Tips for Living with Hearing Loss and Some Vision Loss
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 Recently, the choices for purchasing hearing aids have become more complicated. There are merchants that only sell online, big-box stores, and new or unlikely businesses that tout their own hearing care solutions.
It’s important to know that seeing a professional hearing instrument specialist is still the leading choice in treating your hearing loss. You have a Distinctive Range of Hearing Loss, so You’ll need a Solution for Your Particular Needs The complexities of hearing loss require help from a professional who understands how to treat it. Each individual who experiences difficulties with their hearing needs to communicate with their hearing instrument specialist so that they can tailor a solution for them. Proper fittings, programming, and guidance from an experienced hearing instrument specialist are the best steps toward better hearing. Modern Hearing Aids: Refined and Effective If a healthcare professional recommended hearing aids to treat your hearing loss, you are in luck. Today’s hearing aids feature advanced technology that makes listening and engaging in conversations easier. The difference between an “OK” and an “Amazing” Listening Experience The only person with the skills and training to fit and program a hearing aid for your individual needs is a qualified hearing instrument specialist. They will ask you about environments where you spend most of your time, what it’s like when you communicate with your loved ones or other people you talk to on a daily basis, the frequencies that you struggle to hear, whether one or both ears are affected, the variations of hearing loss/lack of hearing loss in each ear. Other topics that you might go over:
Investing in Hearing Aids Hearing aids are a major investment, so it’s important to be able to get the most out of them. With time and patience, they can change your life for the better. Imagine the improvement in communication, less isolation, better overall health, and well-being. These things are possible - so get your money’s worth. Receiving these devices from a professional and getting their advice, will help you achieve these goals. Also, if you need help you can always contact your hearing instrument specialist. Local Hearing Aid Providers There have been so many changes in hearing aid technology. The one thing that remains consistent is the support and care from local hearing aid providers who are able to deliver the best possible results. Get in touch with us at Pure Sound Hearing, and talk with one of our local hearing instrument specialists in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. They are here to listen and patiently work with you or your loved one.  Our experiences change as we age. There are more responsibilities and different priorities that we need to deal with. We’ll notice that some family members will need additional help and care.
If you recognize any of these things, you’re probably the caregiver in your family. There are some tips on how to handle this role to make your life easier. Attention to All Caregivers Anyone can be a caregiver. Maybe you are taking care of a sick or aging parent, relative, friend, or child with special needs. It’s a lot of responsibility, but it’s important to know that you aren’t alone. The Family Caregiver Alliance has reported that annually, nearly 44 million Americans assist with 37 billion hours of unpaid, ‘informal’ care for adult family members and friends who have chronic conditions or illnesses. Most people manage these situations with some or no help from a professional. Out of this population, there’s a large number of people who need aid and assistance as a result of an injury - or age-related hearing loss. What is Age-Related Hearing Loss? The term presbycusis, also known as age-related hearing loss, has been used and described in our previous blog posts. When you think about a caregiver, managing hearing loss probably doesn’t immediately come to your attention as the main part to consider. Aging and looking after hearing problems could become a significant responsibility that you will also need to handle. Hearing loss that goes untreated can cause cognitive decline and depression due to social isolation. It can impact your self-worth and general outlook on life, which can make things more challenging as you age. If you notice or even suspect a loved one has hearing loss, contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a free hearing test and consultation. Just like with any serious health problem, it’s important to receive early treatment and care to help slow down or even prevent worsening effects. At Home Care for Your Hearing Needs It’s important to be able to care for your hearing loss on your own, with the guidance of a hearing healthcare professional. If you are a caregiver for someone with hearing loss, start by making sure that the hearing aids and/or assistive listening devices are properly functioning. Batteries and wax guards should be switched out regularly. If the person you are caring for hears whistling or anything abnormal with their hearing aids, their device probably needs to be repaired. You can clean their hearing aids from dust and earwax buildup, and make sure they are dry. Professional-grade cleaning wipes or soft cloth should be used to wipe the hearing aids down. The way their home is arranged is also something to look into. You should ask the person with the hearing impairment whether they can hear the TV, or if it’s easy for them to answer the telephone or their smartphone. If they do find it difficult to use these devices, maybe you should rearrange some furniture or the entertainment system. Most modern hearing aids feature Bluetooth®, so streaming media or phone calls are easier. A major part of caring for someone with hearing loss is working as a team to find the best solution for their unique lifestyle and needs. You should also consider creating a quiet and comfortable atmosphere. Struggling to hear can lead to listening fatigue, so help make their living space calm and relaxing. Don’t Forget to Take Good Care of Yourself It’s easy to feel burnt out in these situations. It happens to every caregiver. The most common signs of stress in a caregiver are fatigue, consistent feelings of worry, and depression. If you notice any of these feelings, address them immediately. Taking care of your own needs is just as important as taking care of your loved one. There are support groups available or even consider advice from a medical professional. If possible, talk to loved ones - even the person who you are caring for. Make reasonable expectations. A conversation could help with future tensions that are felt by everyone involved. Make an Appointment with a Specialist Setting up an appointment with a hearing aid specialist is important for caregivers with loved ones who have hearing loss. They will help keep the devices functioning properly, repair them, provide professional cleanings, cleaning tools such as professional-strength cleaning wipes, and other accessories. Remember to keep information on your loved one’s hearing aid warranty on hand, in case it is needed, and go to their appointment with them. If you, or a loved one, need a hearing test or new hearing aids, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a free hearing test and consultation.  The difficulties caused by severe to profound hearing loss are not simply that they are a little worse than mild to moderate hearing loss. There’s much more to it.
Insight on the repercussions of Severe to Profound Hearing Loss (SPHL) Patients who have mild to moderate hearing loss experience frustration, confusion, and isolation - which can lead to depression - due to feeling less confident during social situations where listening environments are challenging. Patients with severe to profound hearing loss experience the same problems, but there are additional struggles. When anyone who has difficulty with hearing also needs to put extra effort in trying to listen to others, they can experience fatigue. People that you communicate with may not be accommodating or sympathetic, which discourages you from trying to fit in or reach out to others. SPHL makes itself known in every Situation If you have severe to profound hearing loss, you probably have a lot of trouble with communicating in noisy environments AND in just about any conversation that you engage in, or attempt to engage in. This invisible boundary can hinder your ability to create and build upon relationships. Having friendships or work relationships with others is important to understand where we fit in this society. Communication isn’t the only problem that you may have. You might feel less confident if something sounds confusing, or isolated if you miss the punchline to a joke that someone makes and everyone else laughs except for you. You could also feel as though you need to rely on others to speak clearly or translate things for you. Sometimes, those moments during a conversation lose their magic or significance when it needs to be repeated. How Hearing Loss affects Your Mental Health If your interpersonal relationships are negatively impacted by your hearing loss, that can also negatively affect you. It’s easy to see how isolation can snowball into other problems in relation to your mental health. Anxiety and depression have been closely associated with severe and profound hearing loss. Anxiety and depression significantly increase the chances of social isolation, which can be an issue caused by miscommunications, so the cycle continues. There have been studies on high rates of depression among people who have normal hearing abilities who communicate with people who are hard of hearing. So it’s not necessarily hearing loss that’s at the center of the problem, but the constant interruption of how a normal conversation should be. Hearing Aids and a Healthy Social Life In addition to receiving a great pair of hearing aids that are properly fitted and programmed by a hearing instrument specialist, and possibly auditory training sessions, people with hearing loss MUST HAVE contact with others who are having the same challenges as they are. Whether it’s advice from someone with firsthand experience or just an empathetic person who understands what they are going through, it’s important to have those relationships. Find those communities, whether it’s an online group or a local hearing loss association chapter. There will be people in similar situations that you can connect with. If you or a loved one are experiencing hearing loss, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a hearing test and consultation. We offer a variety of hearing aids and some listening devices for your journey towards better hearing.  Nearly 48 million Americans experience some range of hearing loss, but most are unwilling to acknowledge it. Due to the ageism that is deeply steeped in society, many people see hearing loss as a sign of getting old, so it’s ignored and goes untreated.
The aesthetics of hearing aids or their cost is also a concern for many individuals. According to the Hearing Loss Association of America, the average person waits at least seven years to seek help. There are serious consequences to untreated hearing loss. Here are nine reasons why you - or your loved one - should get treatment. 1. Wearing Hearing Aids is as Natural as Wearing Eyeglasses While it’s important to note that hearing loss and vision loss are not the same things, - nor does treatment for them work the same way - normalizing the use of hearing aids the way wearing eyeglasses has been accepted is important. Presbyopia, or the inability to focus on close objects due to age-related deterioration, is the visual equivalent to presbycusis (age-related hearing loss). For some, hearing aids may not be considered a trendy accessory - although they are available in bright colors. There are more discreet styles that rest in the inner ear canal. Many famous people also rely on wearing hearing aids like Halle Berry, Jodie Foster, Robert Redford, Rob Lowe, and Whoopie Goldberg. 2. Mild Hearing Loss can change Brain Function Ears transmit information to the brain, therefore when hearing loss occurs the brain will also change. As hearing loss progresses, the areas of the brain that process visual and sensory elements will start to utilize parts of the auditory cortex to comprehend sounds. This change results in an under-stimulation - which leads to deterioration - of the auditory cortex. 3. Untreated Hearing Loss Negatively impacts Memory and Cognitive Abilities You may have had trouble hearing in a crowded room. Your frontal and prefrontal cortex - these are the areas of the brain that assist with thinking, focusing, concentration, and remembering things for brief periods (A.K.A. - working memory) - become more active. These are the parts of your brain that listen, so they won’t be effective if they become deteriorated due to hearing loss. When it comes to the way their brain processes speed and executive function, research has shown that individuals with hearing loss have shortcomings. As frequently mentioned in this blog, hearing loss has been linked to dementia. In 2017, The Lancet published an international study that concluded that hearing loss is one of the biggest modifiable risks for developing dementia. There’s a lot of hope in the fact that a person with hearing loss can manage their memory and cognitive abilities, and adapt to life like any other person with a hearing aid that is fit and programmed by a professional. 4. The Safety and Security of Hearing Better Some ranges of hearing loss may put your life in danger. If you can’t hear a smoke alarm, house alarm, sirens, severe weather warnings, or even a doorbell, this can put you at greater risk. According to research from Johns Hopkins University, the National Institute of Aging found that anyone with mild hearing loss is three times more likely to fall than people with healthy hearing abilities. 5. The Stress of Straining to Hear Mild hearing loss can cause stress. This stress can lead to anger, anxiety, depression, frustration, headaches, and irritability. 6. Interpersonal Relationships can Suffer Relationships can become strained if you don’t have a partner/spouse, family members, friends, or colleagues who are patient with you. Following along during conversations can be challenging. It can require more concentration and fatigue. After a while, you may no longer enjoy socializing and begin isolating yourself, which can lead to depression. 7. Hearing Health helps Your overall Health Getting a routine hearing test and treatment, if necessary, is one step towards better overall health. A good diet and an exercise routine are also great ways to help your overall health, which can impact your hearing health. 8. Hearing Aids have seen Great Technological Improvements Hearing aids can be discreetly placed in the ear canal or even behind the ears. Digital signal processing lets your hearing instrument specialist tailor the devices for your specific listening needs, which improves your hearing health and cognitive health. This gives users a customized listening experience. 9. It’s Almost Impossible to Mask Your Hearing Loss If you are constantly asking others to speak up or repeat what they’ve said, you might need hearing aids. Contact us at Pure Sound Hearing to schedule an appointment for a hearing test and consultation with one of our hearing instrument specialists. They will help you find the right solution for your hearing needs. If You have noticed Difficulty with Hearing, You might also Experience Feelings of Anxiety.7/13/2021  Anxiety is an unrelenting and intense state of alertness. While this is completely normal when you encounter stressful circumstances, for some people it becomes an unmanageable condition that consumes their thoughts.
Hearing loss can provoke or even encourage these anxieties, but there haven’t been comprehensive studies on this matter. These worries aren’t simply about hearing loss, but also missing out on important information, embarrassment from a misunderstanding, thoughts of hearing aid batteries running out of power, or feeling left out of job opportunities/social circles. Experiencing Physical Anxiety You may have had strong feelings of anxiety which led to physical symptoms, such as:
If any of these symptoms are becoming so frequent that they are negatively impacting your life, you should seek help from a professional. This might include treatment for hearing loss and anxiety. What Triggers Your Anxiety? Anxiety is separated into five categories:
If you were in an automobile accident and suffered a head injury, you might suffer from rapid hearing loss and other symptoms of PTSD. Your specific symptoms and treatment may be different from someone who is gradually losing their hearing and constantly pays attention to signs of dementia (but it’s only their hearing that’s been impacted). People with hearing loss might have tinnitus or Ménière's disease, which can also be distressing and lead to anxiety. The Statistics on Anxiety and Hearing Loss Constantly struggling in everyday circumstances that aren’t a problem for most people can lead to stress. Anxiety is one reaction to this stress. Over a 12-year study, about 4,000 French citizens who were at least 65-years-old, and had hearing loss at the beginning of the study had a higher risk of developing symptoms of anxiety over time. People who had vision loss were not more likely to show symptoms of anxiety. This may be due to the reduced stigma in wearing eyeglasses over wearing hearing aids. Hearing Loss and Tinnitus Severity Raise the Risk of Experiencing Anxiety The link to hearing loss and tinnitus severity was found in adults of every age group. The study found in 17,000 adult participants, there was a higher risk of anxiety if your hearing loss was more severe or you had tinnitus. This does not automatically conclude that you will be anxious due to hearing loss. In five studies that examined symptoms in hard-of-hearing individuals, between 15 to 31 percent of participants had significant symptoms of anxiety. So overall, most people did not have these symptoms. Among the general population, anxiety is common. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, approximately 18 percent of American adults have been diagnosed with an anxiety disorder. Are You Anxious in Social Situations or Simply Frustrated due to Problems with Hearing? As frequently mentioned in this blog, age-related hearing loss (presbycusis), slowly happens over time. Many people don’t notice it, until much later in life. You can be slowly overcome with feelings of loneliness, which contribute to your mental health - i.e. anxiety. People who have social anxiety fear any circumstance where they may be negatively judged, whether it’s with people that they work with, or engaging in small talk. Hearing loss can lead to situations that can frustrate others. When you are unable to hear clearly, you may not notice when someone is about to talk or has not finished speaking, and interrupt that person. You might pretend that you can hear, or make a guess as to what was said, and give an inappropriate response. Maybe you didn’t hear a joke - so you’re the only person who didn’t laugh. Hearing loss can make you feel isolated and create awkward social situations. If you still enjoy being social with others, you probably have mild social anxiety. If the simple act of sitting with others makes you anxious, you probably have extreme social anxiety. Those with GAD might have a lot of worries and struggle with physical symptoms for days prior to a date or a job interview. Tips for Communication
Can Having an Anxiety Disorder Negatively Impact Your Hearing? A French study conducted on 10,500 Taiwanese adults concluded that there was a higher risk of anxiety among those who experienced sudden hearing loss (SHL). Participants in the study who were diagnosed with GAD, but not hearing loss at the beginning of the research were more likely to develop hearing loss than individuals who did not have GAD. The adults with GAD were not more likely to experience worsening vision. Additional studies are needed to determine why hearing might be impacted by anxiety. Treatment for Anxiety is Available Most people who have anxiety are not treated. It often gets overlooked. If you want to get help for anxiety, you will need to reach out to your healthcare provider. Exercise, meditation, or medication may be suggested. Hearing Aids of Assistive Listening Devices If hearing loss is causing your anxiety, hearing aids can significantly improve your condition. They cannot restore your hearing back to normal, but they can help you manage the anxiety that you feel with communication and listening. Phone apps that provide captions and decibel readers can also be helpful. If the sound of your alarm causes anxiety, you can set one that creates a light that slowly shines like a sunrise, or even a gentle shaking alarm to wake you from your sleep. If you or a loved one are experiencing anxiety, or any other concerning symptoms, due to hearing loss, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a hearing test and consultation.  The annual Consumer Electronics Show (CES) reveals innovation in new products and possible trends that are set for the future. The 2021 trade show focused on inclusive tech, which encourages everyone to actively participate in life.
The significance of this is being able to provide access to others. Healthy hearing paves the way for people to enjoy and fully participate in what matters, and those who matter to them, in their lives. For example:
Forms of inclusive tech presented at the 2021 CES
Modern hearing aid features include:
There have been so many new advancements to improve your life, overall health, and hearing. Contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a free hearing test, hearing aid trial, and consultation to learn which digital hearing aids would work best for you and your lifestyle.  The third most prevalent chronic disease that affects the elderly is hearing loss. Hearing loss has been linked to weakened overall health including depression, loneliness, isolation, and poor physical health. Hearing loss usually goes untreated, where only 11 percent of older adults who experience hearing loss own hearing aids and about 24 percent of them do not use the devices.
Hearing loss is linked to a faster rate of cognitive decline in elderly adults, which can result in dementia. The majority of studies on cognitive decline are centered on older adults, but recent evidence showed that the onset of hearing loss that occurs in mid-life is associated with being diagnosed with dementia before the age of 60. Therefore, in mid - and later- life, hearing loss raises the risks for dementia and cognitive decline. Prior to Hearing Aid Usage Before receiving a hearing aid fitting, the male and female test subjects had no significant difference in hearing loss. The range of hearing loss was not connected to the person’s age. Mood and anxiety levels were within normal limits, with 17 percent of participants who reported experiencing higher anxiety and/or depression. This may partly be due to the fact that a participant’s degree of hearing loss was only mild to moderate. As a result, the effects of hearing loss on their mental health and loneliness were not as severe. Receiving higher education has also been shown to have a protective effect against symptoms of anxiety and depression. About 44 percent of these participants reported feeling lonely. The average Health Utilities Index mark 3 (HUI3) for overall quality of life scored at 0.74 (the maximum score is 1). An analysis showed that the range of hearing loss, and a person’s age, predicted poorer executive function. Strengthening education attainment was linked to better managerial function and visual learning. The Results After 18 Months Cognitive function was reexamined in 37 participants 18 months after receiving their hearing aid fitting. Twenty-eight percent of the test subjects used their hearing aids for over 90 percent of their waking hours, and 31 percent of the test subjects used their device for 60-90 percent of waking hours. Speech perception in quiet environments and overall quality of life improved significantly with the majority of the group. About 57 percent of the self-reported listening disability scores significantly improved. Individuals who had high symptoms of anxiety and depression did not report experiencing either of those conditions at 18 months. Participants who were severely lonely at the beginning of the experiment were not at 18 months. The group’s average performance improved for measures on executive function, psychomotor function, attention, working memory, and visual learning. There was no decline during the 18 months. During a follow-up, 30 percent of the follow-up test subjects were better at executive function, 67 percent were stable, and the condition of three percent worsened. There was an improvement in the working memory, visual attention, and visual learning for the female participants. When the cognitive changes from hearing aid usage were studied, considerably greater gains in executive function were discovered in participants who used their hearing aids or assistive listening devices for over 90 percent of their waking hours, compared to those who used their devices for less than 90 percent of their waking hours. Women test subjects used their hearing aids on a more regular basis and for longer periods of time than men, at 56% vs. 33% during a span of 14-hours per day. More gain in executive function, and improvements in three other test subsets among female participants, recommend a dose-effect of hearing aid usage on cognition. Prior studies reported this contrast in hearing aid usage between men and women. They imply that it could be because women value social communication more than men, have a greater awareness of the root causes of hearing loss, and struggle with more stress and anger as a result of hearing loss. If you, or a loved one, are experiencing hearing loss and believe hearing aids would be helpful, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a free hearing test and consultation. We offer a wide selection of hearing aid brands and styles for your listening needs.  You can turn what is perceived as a disadvantage, and make it your advantage.
If you are deaf or hard of hearing, there will be some obvious challenges in your work environment. Own your hearing loss, and try not to feel limited by it. All employers are required by law to accommodate workers with disabilities - this includes those who are deaf or hard of hearing. Individuals in the deaf and hard-of-hearing communities can excel at any job they’d like, but there may be some career paths that are easier to transition through if you have hearing loss. Where Deaf and Hard of Hearing People have an Advantage Texting has effectively replaced phone (and some face-to-face) conversations between teens. Communication via text has become equally as important as communicating verbally. In many instances, when you lose one sense - such as the ability to hear, your other senses and skills may heighten. Over 80% of teens use social media and smartphones. Just about everyone carries their phones with them, everywhere they go. This makes communication much easier for a person with hearing loss. Career Opportunities for Deaf Teens There are a number of hearing-specific careers available, where being hard of hearing is an advantage. Here are some of them:
These are very rewarding jobs. Working with deaf/hard-of-hearing youth can make a big impact in their life. Here are other careers where hearing loss is not a major obstacle.
If you or a loved one are in need of hearing aids, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a free hearing test and consultation.  Check out the latest smartphone app from CaptionCall. This free app lets people who experience hearing loss make phone calls and receive them through the Android smartphone.
This app makes it easier for users to understand others when they speak to them and gives people a more independent life. Easy Access to CaptionCall As long as they have decent Wi-Fi service available, the CaptionCall Mobile app can be easily accessible. Features include:
The app is currently available to download at the Google Play store. It can be used with Android smartphones that have an Operating System (OS) 7.0 or newer and the Jitterbug Smart2 smartphones that have the Android 7.0 OS or newer. The app can be connected to your hearing aids via Bluetooth connectivity. This allows you to enhance your CaptionCall by:
Smartphone Usage with Bluetooth®-compatible Hearing Aids People of all ages experience hearing loss, but the aging population is more likely to experience it. A 2019 Pew Research Center study found that more and more seniors are using smartphones than ever before. About 46 percent of individuals who are at least 65 years old use smartphones. The CaptionCall Mobile app (for Android smartphones) is convenient for anyone who relies on smartphones to communicate with others - whether it’s family, friends, colleagues, healthcare providers, or the general public. If you or a loved one are interested in Bluetooth®-compatible hearing aids, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing to schedule a complimentary hearing test and consultation.  Phonak Marvel - rechargeable hearing aid 1. It provides some of the most natural sounds and can reduce background noise.
It's difficult to hear in a busy area. That especially rings true for anyone with hearing loss. To take on this problem, Phonak Marvel uses the Autosense feature. This technology automatically adjusts your hearing aid settings based on the environment that you're in so that you can hear better in any place. 2. Phonak Marvel features Hands-free Bluetooth® Technology Phonak’s Marvel hearing aid can be connected to any Bluetooth®-enabled device, which includes any TV, computer, or phone that has Bluetooth®. The Bluetooth® connection does not require the use of an adapter to switch on the audio streaming feature. Marvel is a hands-free Bluetooth® earpiece and a hearing aid. When the Bluetooth® is switched on, the hearing aid user can keep their smartphone or other Bluetooth®-enabled devices on a table while doing other things. The sounds will be harnessed through the hearing aid and pick up the user’s voice. When the phone or Bluetooth® device stays within Bluetooth®'s connectivity range, you do not need to hold the audio source. Other hearing aid brands tend to let the user hear sounds in the hearing aid, but they need to stay close to the phone or audio source’s microphone for the sound of the voice to get picked up. Listening and communicating through a hearing aid can be like listening and communicating through a speakerphone. Even if you can hear the call through your hearing aid, the caller can only hear you if you are near the microphone. 3. If necessary, get an adjustment for your hearing aids. If there’s anything wrong with your hearing aids, contact us at Pure Sound Hearing. Our providers can reprogram the devices, or conduct a deep cleaning if it's necessary. If you have any questions or concerns about your Phonak Marvel devices or any hearing aids that were purchased from Pure Sound Hearing, please contact us.  Setting up a smoke detector in the home is easy, and important to warn you and your loved ones about a fire. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the risk of death due to a fire breaking out in your home falls by 55 percent when you set up a functioning smoke alarm.
For most people, the sound of a loud smoke alarm is enough to warn you about a fire. If you have hearing loss, particularly high-frequency hearing loss where you are unable to hear high-pitched sounds, a smoke or carbon monoxide detector may not be sufficient enough to warn you. Instead, some alarms feature flashing lights or even vibrating alarms for your bed so that you can be shaken awake from your sleep. Why You need to have an Alarm It’s important to have early detection so that residents may be immediately alerted, and make their way to safety. The amount of time that is available to escape is now less than what we previously thought - at two to three minutes - due to the flammable, synthetic materials that are found in most modern homes. This early detection gives a quicker warning to residents about the potential danger. The individuals at most risks of being harmed or perishing in a fire include children, anyone who is under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and people with hearing loss. What type of Alarm should You get, based on Your Hearing Loss? The average alarm might not be able to alert you for safety if you experience high-frequency hearing loss caused by age or exposure to loud noises, Typical smoke alarms only generate high-frequency sounds, or high-pitched sounds, which usually aren’t loud enough for people who have severe to profound hearing loss. This is concerning when you remove your hearing aids before going to bed at night. The NFPA strongly suggests that anyone who cannot hear clearly, especially if they have mild to severe hearing loss, should use a device that produces a combination of different low-pitched sounds. What are some Smoke Alarm Options for the Hard of Hearing? There are a few different options to choose from, including:
After choosing your alarm system, notify everyone in the house so that they know which signal to be on the lookout for in case of an emergency. Unless you wear rechargeable hearing aids that need to be charged overnight, you may also leave your hearing aids in while sleeping. It will give you a better chance of hearing your fire alarm go off. If you or a loved one are experiencing hearing loss and need hearing aids, please get in touch with us at Pure Sound Hearing for a hearing test and consultation.  If you are looking for a good entertainment list for the summer, we’ve got you covered!
Here’s a list of uplifting and captivating choices that cover the topics of hearing loss or sound. Read, watch and listen if you need some time to relax. The Way I Hear It: A Life With Hearing Loss (Book) In this book, humorist, actress, public speaker, and hearing loss advocate Gael Hannan, shares life lessons and more. She offers advice and encouragement to both individuals with hearing loss and their loved ones. My Deaf Friend Can Do Anything You Can Do (Book) Other people’s misconceptions and stereotypes can hinder their ability to truly understand each other. This children’s book can give you and your family a chance to learn about the experiences of those with hearing and appreciate what everyone has to offer. Sound of Metal (Movie) This movie tells the story of Ruben, a heavy-metal drummer, who suddenly begins to experience profound hearing loss while on tour. It’s been praised by the deaf and hard of hearing community and has become a strong contender for the 2021 Oscars. See What I’m Saying: The Deaf Entertainers Documentary (Movie) This film follows entertainers with hearing loss, who pursue their dream careers. The award-winning 2009 documentary shows the very real highs and lows of drummer Bob, comic CJ, actor and educator Robert, and singer TL. Twenty Thousand Hertz (Podcast) This podcast covers topics on sound. What is it? How does it work? How can beings hear? The host, Dallas Taylor, also discusses topics like synesthesia (Ep. “Synesthesia” from Jan. 13, 2021), and tells the backstory of familiar sounds that you may recognize. Hopefully, you’ll enjoy this summer's list of entertainment! If you or a loved one are experiencing difficulty with hearing, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a hearing test and consultation.  Chrissy loves working with patients, so they can better understand hearing loss and the benefits of using hearing aids!
Contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a hearing test and consultation.  Did you know that the month of June is dedicated to men’s health?
On average, men tend to ignore their health at a higher rate than women, which leads to so many other health problems down the road. It’s important to raise awareness on men’s health, particularly preventative health measures that can be detected and treated if it’s caught in the early stages. Hearing loss is more common in men, due to the fact that they are more likely to work in an environment that’s louder than the average work setting - including construction zones, mines, industrial areas, etc. Hearing loss that goes untreated can lead to more risks of falls, lower opportunities for employment, lower salaries due to an inability to accurately perform tasks, social isolation which can lead to depression and dementia. Preventative care isn’t the only reason to treat your hearing loss. Healthy hearing is good for your overall health. Being included in conversations or enjoying music or TV, and not missing out on things like a good joke and laughter is important for your mind, body, and spirit. The old stigma of wearing hearing aids is no longer valid among the younger generations. Many people wear their devices proudly, but if you’re still uncomfortable with visible hearing aids Pure Sound has discreet hearing aids available. Get back to enjoying the sounds of music, fun, and laughter. Contact us at Pure Sound to schedule a hearing test and consultation.  Healthy hearing is important in the development and quality of a child’s life. Without proper treatment, children with hearing loss can fall behind when it comes to establishing their communication, language acquisition, learning abilities, and social skills. Some parents or teachers may mistake a child’s hearing loss for a learning disability or a stubbornness when it comes to learning new things.
Today, more and more hospitals screen newborns for hearing loss. When an infant is born with hearing loss, this is known as congenital hearing loss. This type of hearing loss is usually genetic. Temporary Hearing Loss Some children may experience temporary hearing loss. If this type of hearing loss frequently occurs, it can be harmful to children’s speech and language acquisition as they age. It can also cause deterioration to the eardrum, bones inside your ears, or auditory nervous system which can lead to sensorineural hearing loss, which is a type of permanent hearing loss. A Parental/Guardian’s Guide to Children’s Hearing Loss Normally, parents or guardians will not immediately notice hearing loss in their child until other problems arise. If there is no immediate treatment for the child, the condition could get worse and become more difficult to manage. Your child will most likely receive a hearing test in school, and if they do not they should be receiving one at their annual doctor’s visit. Based on how severe the hearing loss is and what the cause was, hearing aids may be recommended. What are Hearing Aids? Hearing aids are powerful electronic devices that can help make sounds clearer for people with a wide range of hearing loss. It essentially hones in on the sounds that a person wants to hear, using directional microphones while reducing less important background noises. If you have a child or grandchild who experiences hearing loss, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a free hearing test and consultation.  As regular readers already know, hearing loss is one of the most common health problems. You also know that hearing loss can be a pathway towards cognitive decline, dementia, and social isolation which can lead to depression. Many people do not take this issue seriously enough.
Studies on Hearing Loss Research from the Lancet suggests that receiving treatment for hearing loss in midlife is one of the ways to prevent or delay the onset of dementia. According to these latest studies, and previous knowledge of the connection between hearing loss and cognitive decline, healthcare professionals encourage everyone to take their hearing loss more seriously and immediately get treatment for it. Medical care may help to prevent, delay or reduce the impact of hearing loss. If you are ready to seek help for your hearing loss, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a free hearing test and consultation.  Just about all modern appliances, from your doorbell to your washing machine, can be connected to your smartphone through an app. So it’s obvious that hearing aids can also function with the use of an app.
Nearly everyone uses apps these days. They help make something new become familiar in an effortless manner. For hearing aid users, there are many features within each app to make wearing hearing aids more customized to a person’s unique experiences. Hearing Aid Apps There are many hearing apps that can be used with smartphones. For example decibel (dB) meter apps can measure how loud your environment is. Remember, the average hearing threshold is 85 dB. Anything higher than that can lead to hearing loss. Other apps can perform a basic hearing screening, or can even help train your brain with listening exercises. For anyone who currently wears hearing aids - or is thinking about getting hearing aids - you should look into apps that were created by your hearing aid manufacturer. For example, there’s the Oticon On app which has a remote control, HearingFitness (hearing training), tinnitus sound support, and other features that connect to an IFTTT network (this is a network that stands for “if this, then that”.) It helps you connect all of your apps and devices when you engage in certain practices. For example, if your coffee maker is connected via Bluetooth®, your Bluetooth®-connected hearing aids will also turn on when you switch your coffee maker on to start making your coffee - as long as everything is in its place. These apps can be linked with the hearing aids that you wear via Bluetooth® by using an Apple or Android phone. Available App Features There’s a range of apps for a range of different features. Here’s a list of the most common features on popular hearing aid apps: Hearing Aid Adjustments Many hearing aids can automatically adjust their volume and settings based on the environment that you are in. If you prefer controlling the bass, treble, and volume, smartphone apps give you a more discreet option - instead of reaching your hand up to your ear to press a button. It’s like changing the volume or setting on a remote-controlled stereo. Personalized settings can be saved. If you frequent a certain area or building that is difficult to hear in, you can make adjustments that provide the best listening experience and save those settings when you go back to that place. Some settings may already be programmed by your hearing instrument specialist. You can monitor the status of your device. Apps let you know what the battery life is on your hearing aids - that way, you can check when they need to be recharged or when you need fresh batteries. There’s also a “Find my Hearing Aid” feature in most hearing aid apps if you lose your hearing aid. You can also see how many hours you wear your hearing aids each day/week/month. This is great to monitor your cognitive health. Remember, it’s important to wear your hearing aids each day from the moment you wake up to the moment you go to bed. Hearing aids can have a direct connection to audio. You may use an app and connect straight to sound sources. This lets you stream music, phone calls, and TV through your hearing aids. Hearing aids have become so advanced with new features that help make your life easier. Contact us at Pure Sound for a hearing aid trial and more information on these incredible pieces of technology.  If you have an aging father who is losing his hearing, discussing the prospect of receiving hearing aids probably won’t be easy. Statistically, it’s more likely that men will need hearing aids than women. This usually comes down to the work environment that men usually spend time in, i.e. construction, loud industrial facilities, operating heavy machinery, etc.
There are many reasons why some people decide not to wear hearing aids, but what should you do when your dad begins to show clear signs of hearing loss? Here are some tips to get a loved one so that they can get their hearing loss treated. Recognize the Stigma that sometimes comes with Wearing Hearing Aids Modern hearing aids can rest behind the ears, along your outer ear, or deep inside your ear canal. A lot of men tend to ignore obvious signs of hearing loss, so they may choose not to get hearing aids. Or, they may get hearing aids but won’t use them. The stigma of hearing aids was more widespread in the past, so it might be difficult for them to shift their mindset. Today, there are so many different styles of hearing aids that are powerful and discreet: behind-the-ear (BTE) in-the-ear (ITE) in-the-canal (ITC) completely-in-the-canal (CIC) invisible-in-canal (IIC) Why Some Men Don’t Want to Wear Hearing Aids There are practical reasons for this:
Depending on your hearing loss, the discreet ones may not work best for someone with severe or profound hearing loss. And there are emotional reasons for this:
4 Tips to Discuss Hearing Loss with Your Dad, or the Male Figure in Your Life When you decide to sit down and talk about hearing loss with your dad, or an important man in your life, you need to have a strategy. 1. Research information about hearing loss: He may appreciate it if you can give helpful and accurate information on hearing loss, treatment options, and how using hearing aids can be beneficial. Let him know that there are different and more discreet styles that are available. 2. Timing is everything: Make sure both of you are in a good mood before bringing up this topic. The conversation might be futile if one, or both of you are frustrated while talking about it. 3. Raise awareness about the negative impacts of hearing loss: Rather than focusing his attention on his hearing loss, inform him on how the hearing loss impacts his daily life. Maybe he no longer participates in things with you, or anyone. Hearing loss can atrophy the brain, which can lead to Alzheimer’s and dementia. 4. Be patient, and help as much as you can: Find help for him. Take him to get a hearing test and help look at the options that are available for him. If you believe that you have a loved one who has hearing loss, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a free hearing test and consultation. Our hearing healthcare providers are professional hearing instrument specialists who can program your devices to suit your individual listening needs.  Figuring out your health insurance plan can be a daunting task if you’re new at it and don’t know what questions to ask. Here is some general information to give you an idea of what to expect.
1. Do I have hearing aid coverage through my plan? Each insurance plan is different for each patient. Our patient care coordinators will be able to help you figure out this process and talk about the benefits you can receive. 2. Are my hearing aids covered for a certain percentage? Some insurance covers 100% of the cost for your hearing aids, while others cover only a portion of it. When you come for a visit with our hearing instrument specialists, they can go over the details of your coverage with you based on your individual hearing needs. 3. How often can I receive hearing aids through my insurance? Each insurance plan varies, but on average it’s every three years. 4. Are there specific types of hearing aids that I am limited to receive under my insurance plan? There are many different types of hearing aids and assistive listening devices. Talk to your hearing instrument specialist about this, after receiving the results of your hearing test. Find out if we accept your insurance at Pure Sound Hearing. If you have any questions about hearing aids and insurance coverage at Pure Sound Hearing, or need to schedule a free hearing test, please contact us.  Are you planning for a break from your busy life? Or are you retired and in search of warmer weather? Remember, even though it’s important to take care of yourself by going on a vacation once in a while, it’s never advised to take a hiatus from your hearing health.
The summer weather and relaxing by the lake, ocean, or swimming pool, is always something to look forward to. Worry less about things while on vacation, by making sure you are caring for your hearing. Memorial Day It’s important to note that while we remember and honor Americans who served and died in our armed forces, many members experience noise-induced hearing loss. This is the most prevalent service-related disability. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has noted, as of 2014, over 933,000 veterans receive disability compensation for hearing loss, and about 1.3 million are compensated for tinnitus. According to the National Institute of Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), approximately one in three Americans from 20 to 69 years of age, experience hearing loss due to noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). This is the only type of hearing loss that can be prevented. Before you enjoy time spent with family this Memorial Day, make sure you wear hearing protection. This can include a pair of portable foam earplugs that you may store in your pocket. Wearing these can lower the risks of damaging your hearing from loud sounds, such as live music playing or fireworks displays. If you plan on swimming, be aware of swimmer’s ear. Temporary hearing loss can be a side effect of swimmer’s ear. Here are tips from the CDC on how you can reduce your risks of developing swimmer’s ear:
Are you a hearing aid user? For anyone who wears a hearing aid, remember to be aware of the increase in humidity and moisture during this time of the year. Just like with any electronic device, water and any amount of moisture if the enemy of hearing aids and listening devices. It can ruin the microphones, receivers, and lead to corrosion in the battery compartment. Keep your hearing aids in a dry case. If you haven’t done so already, get a dehumidifier for your hearing aids. These devices feature a desiccant, which pulls out moisture when placed inside overnight. Your family may already appreciate that you wear hearing aids. Communication can be easier than it was before, and you feel less isolated. It is important to wear your hearing aids every day, from the moment you wake up to the time when you start winding down to sleep. Hearing helps to exercise your brain and allows you to process sounds that are sent through the auditory nerve. These signals are then transferred to the brain so that it can interpret the sounds into information. The ability to communicate with your family using less effort can help create stronger relationships. Father’s Day If you plan on watching a sporting event with your dad, be careful with the volume levels on your TV. The listening threshold is 85 dB. Anything louder may induce hearing loss. Speaking of dads, how is your father’s hearing? After people turn 65, one in three Americans will experience some range of hearing loss. Take notice of whether your father frequently asks you to repeat yourself, or doesn’t respond in an appropriate manner. Gently suggest that he get his hearing tested. Offer to go along with him. Hearing loss that goes untreated can lead to additional health problems including dementia and vertigo. Here are some tips on how you can broach the topic. The Fourth of July Every summer, we look forward to seeing a fireworks display to celebrate the birth of our nation. Most people don’t even think about protecting their ears from the loud blasts of noise from the fireworks. NIHL is permanent, but it is also the only type of hearing loss that can be prevented. Teach your family members about the importance of protecting your hearing health.
We hope you enjoy your summer with the sweet sounds of loved ones, whether it’s via zoom chats or at a safe distance, or relaxing quietly in the sun while hearing birds singing and crickets chirping. Schedule an appointment with us at Pure Sound Hearing for a free hearing test and consultation. We offer a variety of hearing aids for a wide range of hearing loss. What are 10 Summer Job Options for Teens who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, or have Limited Hearing?5/7/2021  It’s summertime. For some people, it’s a time for relaxation and vacations. For teens, this is usually when they get a job and save up (or splurge on something fun).
Working with customers at an ice cream shop, taking food orders, or having a cashier job might be tough, especially if you have difficulty with hearing. If you’re a teenager who is deaf, hard of hearing, or has limited hearing - or the parent of a teenager with hearing loss - who is looking for a job, here are some ideas.
Don’t let your child, or grandchild, feel limited by these jobs. You can also try to look into apprenticeship programs through your child’s high school or job opportunities through a local Hearing Loss Association of American (HLAA) chapter. If your child feels nervous about communicating with others at work, here are some tips. If you or a loved one are experiencing hearing loss, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a free hearing test and consultation. We offer a variety of hearing aid brands including HANSATON, Oticon, Phonak, ReSound, Rexton, Signia, Starkey, Unitron, and Widex.  Having a hearing loss is not always easy. Consider yourself lucky if you have patient and supportive people in your life.
Identifying with Hearing Loss Hearing loss is a part of a person. It’s not who they are as a whole, and it hasn’t changed who they fundamentally are. The World Health Organization has reported that more than 5 percent of the global population experiences some range of hearing loss. There are many different levels of hearing loss, communication styles, and use of hearing devices. Things to Consider for the People in Your Life who have Hearing Loss 1. Keep them included in conversations One of the biggest challenges for people who have hearing loss is communication. This is especially true when in group conversations. Most tend to smile along and pretend they can hear. Simply take the time to repeat something, or enunciate words clearly, to make everyone feel included. Do not respond with “Never mind.” This is very discouraging to someone with hearing loss. Having hearing loss can be incredibly isolating, so be sure to make them feel included if you are having a conversation. 2. Limit to one on one time Hearing loss can be lonely. In some instances, people with hearing loss may feel overwhelmed if there are too many people talking over each other in a conversation. If you notice someone with hearing loss leaving a group or declining social gatherings, ask that person if they’re ok. Offer to "be their ears" and repeat things or paraphrase things for them if necessary. Isolation can harm their mental and emotional well-being. Perhaps they prefer being alone with one other person. There are quieter venues with great lighting that are less busy. 3. Patience is key Communication requires a speaker and a listener. When speaking, make sure you face the person who is hard of hearing. If they didn’t understand you the first time, repeat yourself or explain it in another way. You may also write or type out what you say or even use a speech-to-text app. It may be frustrating at times but practicing to communicate is key. 4. Remember, people with hearing loss want to be treated with respect just like everyone else. Everyone has their own unique traits. They may choose to embrace it while others have not, but it’s important to treat one another with respect regardless of their differences with consideration. If you or a loved one experiences difficulty with hearing, please get in touch with us at Pure Sound Hearing for a free hearing test and consultation.  Do you know why many people who need hearing aids do not wear them?
Some people are in denial that they have hearing loss. A number of people don’t even realize that they have hearing loss until it becomes severe. Hearing tests are generally not conducted during your annual doctor’s exam, unless there’s a cause for concern and the patient specifically requests that one is administered. Hearing loss and wearing hearing aids was stigmatized in earlier generations, so most people don’t bother to seek help or treatment. If you prefer a hearing aid that is more discreet, there are so many hearing aid styles that are so small and nearly invisible to the naked eye. They can repel moisture and dust, connect wirelessly to any of your Bluetooth®-enabled devices, and some can even keep track of how active you are by letting you know how many steps you’ve taken or how active you keep your brain. Many people choose to be in denial about their hearing loss. Hearing loss is sometimes a gradual process, so it’s difficult to recognize that you are experiencing it. Most people who are hard of hearing may believe that everyone who they hear is mumbling as they talk. They may raise the volume to their TV or stereo system. They might have trouble listening to people speak if there’s too much background noise. None of these signs seem serious enough to get help. This struggle to hear will eventually get worse, so it’s important to get help immediately in order to preserve the hearing that you still have. Hearing loss can happen for a multitude of reasons from aging to noise-induced hearing loss, or viruses like the measles or mumps. Common Misconceptions About Hearing Aids Some people don’t think that hearing aids are helpful. Just as hearing loss can be a gradual process for many, acclimating to hearing aids is also a gradual process that takes patience. One issue that patients frequently notice are loud feedback noises that come from hearing aids. These noises are caused by a poor fitting. If you are hearing feedback noises, let your hearing instrument specialist know this so that they can make adjustments as necessary. There’s also the false notion that you’ll need to train your ears more vigorously. Others believe that using a hearing aid actually causes harm to your ability to hear, or wearing hearing aids will make you completely dependent on the devices and the technical support that they provide. This is false. The reality is, hearing cannot be restored. Once it’s gone, it is gone forever. What hearing aids can do is slow down your hearing loss and help keep the hearing abilities that you still have. It’s important to constantly hear sounds, so that your brain stays active. If your brain stops being active, you will have higher risks of dementia. Learn more about why it’s important to wear your hearing aids all day and every day. Visit our Pure Sound Hearing offices to receive a complimentary hearing test and consultation. Contact us to schedule an appointment in Elizabethtown, Lititz, Mt. Joy, or Strasburg.  If you’re a first-time hearing aid user, it may feel unsettling to suddenly hear noises that you haven’t heard in many years. Your brain has become accustomed to not hearing certain sounds for some time, so it needs time to adjust to hearing sounds again. Here are 10 tips to adjusting to hearing aids for a first-time user.
1. Allow time for an adjustment period. Many people make the mistake of equating hearing loss with vision loss. With eyeglasses or contact lenses, you will immediately notice the difference in your vision. Hearing aids do not work the same way. It can take days, weeks, or months to get used to hearing with hearing aids. Your brain needs time to relearn how to interpret sounds. The feeling of hearing aids resting in your ears also takes time. Soon enough, you won’t remember you’re wearing them. If you do notice pain in your ears from wearing hearing aids, perhaps you need an adjustment, different sized domes, or a different customized mold. Try wearing your hearing aids in a quiet area at home. You can become accustomed to the sounds of your living space. Constant background noises such as the hum of the air conditioner, heater, or refrigerator; the ticking sound of a clock, the sound of water rushing from a faucet, etc. will help stimulate your brain and help you relearn the sounds you are hearing. Everything might initially seem too loud. This is normal. Your brain just needs time to readjust to them. 2. Take small steps. Regaining your listening skills takes time and practice. If you are a first-time hearing aid user, begin by only wearing your hearing aids for a few hours at a time. If you start to feel overstimulated by the sounds, remove the hearing aids. Gradually work your way to wearing them longer each day. The more you wear them, the better practice you will have when you need to identify sounds, recognize people’s voices, and concentrate on the things you’re hearing. 3. Make realistic goals. Think about conversations that you’ve had over the phone. No matter what type of phone you have, whether it’s the latest model or an older version, there’s still a difference in the sound of people’s voices. This same thing happens with hearing aids. You’ll hear those sounds differently through hearing aids than you remember experiencing them before your hearing loss. This is normal, and it’s okay. 4. Read to yourself out loud. Before receiving hearing aids, some people may have said that you shout when you speak. Talking loud is normal when you are hard of hearing. Now, with hearing aids, you can gauge your volume of speech. A great way to practice this is by reading to yourself while wearing your hearing aids. You can study the best volume for speech, and you can become better at recognizing the sounds of words and speech. 5. Try to read while listening as often as you can. When you read a book, listen to an audiobook while reading along. If you watch TV or a movie, watch it with closed captions. If you read while listening, your brain will become more familiar with connecting sounds, speech, and words. These are very minor, but important ways to make adjusting to hearing aids happen quicker. 6. Ask family and friends for help. Your loved ones can help you when you are adjusting to your hearing aids. Talking to them gives you a chance to practice speaking around a group of people. Doing this will help your brain relearn sounds, words, and body language. Practicing with people that you know and interact with on a regular basis is helpful because they are familiar to you and it’s easier for your brain to identify the sounds of their voice and interpret what is being said. Loved ones can also help you adapt by adjusting the TV or stereo to a setting that is comfortable for people with normal hearing abilities. This will allow you to listen and adjust to these new volume settings. Don’t raise the volume on your TV that is higher than a person who does not have hearing loss would. This could lead to more hearing loss. 7. Write in a hearing journal. Keep a record of noises that irritate you. If you notice a repetitive noise like a ticking clock is too loud and annoys you after a few days, write it down. Do you struggle to hear when there’s too much background noise? Make a note of it. Track your experience with hearing and discuss it with your hearing instrument specialist. This will help them make proper adjustments and programming so that you can get the most out of your hearing aids. 8. Don’t make excessive adjustments to the volume. There have been so many recent improvements in hearing aid technology. Good quality hearing aids can automatically adjust to your surroundings, instead of manually adjusting them. You may be inclined to lower the volume when you are in a loud area or raise the volume when in a quiet space. You may want to try and hear noises from a distance, that normal ears wouldn’t be able to hear. Doing this will hinder how you adjust to your hearing aids, and it risks more damage to your hearing health. 9. Use telecoils (t-coils). All of today’s digital hearing aids can wirelessly connect to other electronic devices using “telecoil technology” or “telecoil mode”. Hearing aids with this feature can be connected to your smartphone, computer, microphones, audio systems, and any other compatible device. The sounds are transmitted directly to your hearing aids, which can help you hear more clearly. 10. Patience is key. These tips should be helpful for new hearing aid users, but it’s important to remember, as frequently mentioned: adapting to hearing aids takes time. Be patient with yourself and your hearing aids. And don’t be afraid to ask others to be patient with you too. Contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a free hearing aid trial. Our hearing instrument specialists will work with you to get the most out of your hearing aids. |
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