As we’ve mentioned before, adapting to hearing aids takes time. Wearing your hearing aids every day, for as long as you can, will help you adjust to them and the sounds that you've missed out on. Eventually, there may be moments when you forget that you’re even wearing hearing aids.
Learn as much as possible about your hearing aids from your hearing instrument specialist. They are professionals when it comes to the hearing aid’s technology and understanding how the devices work. With your hearing instrument specialist present, practice placing your hearing aids in and removing them. They can give you tips on how to do it safely so that you don’t snap the receiver’s wires. Cleaning tips, replacing the batteries, and identifying the left hearing aid from the right hearing aid will be crucial so that you can get the most out of your hearing aids. Ask how to test them in different environments where you have a difficult time hearing. Some hearing aids automatically adjust the volume and settings, while others require manual adjustments that can be made through your smartphone. Work with your hearing instrument specialist until you are satisfied with them. They will be available when you need help. Common Problems that Arise Do the hearing aids feel uncomfortable? Wearing a new pair of hearing aids can feel like breaking in a new pair of shoes. They may initially feel too tight and uncomfortable. Talk to your hearing instrument specialist to find out how often you should wear your hearing aids each day during your adjustment period. Most would say to wear them from the moment you wake up, until the moment when you are getting ready for bed. But it might depend on your comfort level. Are you hearing feedback noises? Loud whistling sounds can come from your hearing aids if they don’t fit properly, or if it’s obstructed by earwax or fluid. Does your voice sound too loud? The occlusion effect is the blocked-up feeling you hear that makes your voice sound louder. This can seem startling to new hearing aid users. A correction may need to be made by your hearing instrument specialist. Most people get used to the sound as they adapt. Are background noises too loud or distracting? If you are hearing background noises or other people’s conversations, instead of the individuals who you are speaking with, your hearing aids will need additional adjustments. Is there a buzzing sound when using your smartphone? Hearing aid users may notice interferences from frequencies that are caused by smartphones or cellphones. There are more improvements in digital hearing aids and smartphones, so these problems do not occur as often as they used to. If you are experiencing any problems with your hearing aids and need an adjustment, repair, or new hearing aids, contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a complimentary consultation.
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Are Your Hearing Aids Constantly Falling Out? Here are 6 Tips to Keep Them Securely in Your Ears.7/1/2022 Hearing aids are amazing pieces of technology that help you hear better and communicate with people easier. One of the downsides is that they sometimes fall out of your ears. This can create some anxiety, especially if you are outside of your home. Here’s some advice on how to keep your hearing aids from falling out.
6 Tips to Keep Your Hearing Aids Fitting Securely in Your Ears 1. Test whether your hearing aids tend to fall out during certain activities. Do you notice that your hearing aids usually fall out of your ears during a certain time of day? Maybe it’s when you’re eating, speaking, or working out - sweat from your ears can loosen hearing aids and cause them to fall out. This indicates that your hearing aids are poorly fit, and you’ll either need a different size hearing aid dome or a customized earmold. If you have other dome sizes, try those out before seeking help from your hearing aid provider. If you need different hearing aid domes or would like a customized earmold, get in touch with us at Pure Sound Hearing. 2. Examine the inserts that you are placing in your ears. If your hearing aids keep falling out of your ears, it may be due to the size of the removable foam or silicone earpiece. If the earpiece is too big, it will be challenging to insert them into your ear canals and they’ll slide out. If the earpiece is too small, rapidly moving your head or even leaning forward will cause it to fall out. The foam tips should be switched out every 2-3 weeks; silicon tips should be replaced every 4-6 months. If they have not been replaced for a long time, this might be the problem. If the ear molds were customized to fit your ears, you may need to be re-fit. As you age, the size of your ears changes so it’s not an unusual request. 3. Pay attention to the way you insert your hearing aids. In some instances, hearing aids may loosen from your ears because you are not inserting them properly. Be sure to insert hearing aids properly and in the correct ears for customized-fit devices. The hearing aid should fit evenly, and right up against the ear canals, or against the outer ear lobe if the hearing aids are larger. If they don’t slide in comfortably, use a mirror to look and check to make sure they are going in properly. Read through the owner’s manual, or ask your hearing instrument specialist for advice. 4. Clear out earwax. If you don’t find any problems with your hearing aids, maybe earwax build-up is causing your hearing aids to fall out. Earwax build-up can push your hearing aids out of your ears. Safely clean your ears. Do NOT use Q-Tips or anything small that can be inserted into the ear. The irrigation and suction methods or a curette tool may be used by a professional to clean your ears out. With the irrigation method, a syringe containing warm water is held to your ear and the water flows behind the obstruction and pushes it out of the ear. The suction method uses a suction machine to clear the wax from the ears. A curette tool is a thin metal hook that is gently scraped in the ear canal to scoop out the earwax. 5. Use hearing aid accessories. If you have an active lifestyle, you may have a challenging time keeping your hearing aids on after exercising or engaging in a long activity. This is particularly true if you end up sweating during the exercise/activity. Try using an accessory such as a clip, headband, or strap. 6. Maybe you need new hearing aids. If you’ve had your hearing aids for more than five years, they may not fit anymore because the shape of your ears has changed. Everyone’s ears tend to become larger and stretched out as they age. The ear molds on your hearing aids should be replaced every 5-7 years. These are just some of the most common causes as to why hearing aids slip out of the ears. If none of these reasons apply to you - or you are still having difficulties after figuring out the cause of your hearing aids falling out of your ears - schedule an appointment with one of our hearing instrument specialists at Pure Sound Hearing. If you’re looking to extend the life of your hearing aids, good maintenance is crucial. Here are six tips that you may not have considered:
If you are having any problems with your hearing aids and need help, make an appointment with one of our hearing instrument specialists at Pure Sound Hearing. Whether you engage in a vigorous workout routine, spend time outdoors on a sunny and humid day this summer, or store your hearing aids in a bathroom while taking a hot shower, it’s important to take care of your hearing aids when they come in contact with moisture.
Hearing aids are electronic devices that feature a microphone, speaker, volume amplifier, and plastic tubing that connects the hearing aid receiver dome with the body of the devices (the hard plastic casing that holds the battery, microphone, speaker, and amplifier). Just like with any electronic, too much moisture can damage hearing aids. There’s no such thing as a waterproof hearing aid. It is recommended that you remove your hearing aids when taking a shower, a bath, or dipping into a body of water. Hearing aids can last for nearly six years if you keep up with daily cleaning routines, and professional cleanings every six months or less depending on how much debris builds up on the hearing aids. These devices rest inside the ear canals while trapping moisture, earwax, and heat. It’s a breeding ground for bacteria. Feedback noises can occur if the hearing aids are not properly fit, and cleaned. You can also reduce the risk of ear infections and the cost of hearing aid repairs by practicing daily cleanings yourself. Humid Environments Humidity can cause moisture to build up in your hearing aids, which is inevitable if you are outdoors in scorching temperatures or working out. Humidity is one of the top complaints from hearing aid users. Not only can it damage the hearing aids, but the battery life can also deplete quicker, making the devices less effective. Getting Rid of Moisture in Your Hearing Aids One of the ways to reduce the amount of moisture buildup in your hearing aids is by using a dehumidifier. These are boxes or kits that you can purchase from Pure Sound Hearing. Simply take the hearing aids and place them in the box or kit when they become damp. They can also be placed in the box overnight to dry out. You may also use the beads from silica gel packets/desiccants or dry, uncooked rice that’s placed in a bowl or jar, and then place the damp hearing aid in the desiccant or uncooked rice. If you wear your hearing aids during a workout or while doing chores outdoors, wear a sweatband/headband to prevent sweat from dripping onto your hearing aids. Pure Sound Hearing offers professional-strength cleaning wipes and a loop brush cleaning tool for your hearing aids. Stop by at one of our office locations to purchase them. If you need a professional cleaning for your hearing aids, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing to schedule an appointment. If you own a dog who you believe has trouble hearing, you may have wondered whether dogs could wear hearing aids.
In the Starkey Sound Bites podcast, you can listen to a conversation with Dr. Peter ‘Skip’ Scheifele, the executive producer of FETCHLAB, which is the University of Cincinnati’s internationally distinguished animal hearing and bioacoustics laboratory. The podcast features a story about Dr. Scheifele fitting his dog with hearing aids. When Dr. Scheifele began testing at FETCHLAB, his dog was making several TV appearances, notably on Animal Planet. When the dog turned 12 or 13, he started to lose his hearing. Dr. Scheifele and others realized the dog was confused when given verbal commands off-camera. He discussed this with a colleague and decided that they should try to fit the dog for a hearing aid. They used behind-the-ear hearing aids. A cape was customized for the dog so that the hearing aids could be easily attached to it with Velcro, and the tubes were placed in. The dog received excellent training from Dr. Scheifele’s wife, so it made fitting and accepting the hearing aid easy. A lot of people have asked whether hearing aids can be fitted for dogs. It is possible, but it also involves a lot of commitment to train the dog to keep the hearing aid in their ear. It’s also good to note that even if a dog is trained to wear and keep the hearing aid in their ear, they may never acknowledge that there’s a hearing aid in their ear or that it’s benefitting them in any way. If you, or another human in your life, are experiencing hearing loss, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a complimentary hearing test and consultation for a free hearing aid trial. Most new hearing aid users are unprepared for the amount of time it will take to get used to their hearing aids. In addition to learning how they work, you will probably be overwhelmed by noises that you haven’t heard for a long time. Your brain needs time to adjust. Your hearing instrument specialist will be an integral part of this process, so don’t hesitate to contact them in between appointments if you have questions or concerns.
Your Own Voice may Sound Different Hearing aids are not going to restore your hearing back to normal. Your voice is going to sound different when you hear it while wearing your hearing aids. Initially, your voice will sound strange. Some have described that it’s similar to an echo sound or like you’re in a barrel. It may sound louder than usual. The noises you make from chewing and swallowing may also be more prominent. They’ll be irritating, but eventually, you’ll acclimate to the sounds and won’t notice them as much as long as you wear your hearing aids from the moment you wake up to the moment when you go to bed. Obviously, you should not wear them if you are going to take a shower or go into any body of water. If you are still noticing these noises, contact our hearing instrument specialists at Pure Sound for help. How to Adjust to Your Hearing Aids 1. Wear Your Hearing Aids in Your Home Begin wearing the devices around your house or in other quiet places. Have one-on-one conversations. Inform family, friends, and colleagues about your hearing aids so they can support you and help keep you on track as you work towards healthier hearing. Practice listening while wearing them by reading out loud or talking to someone. This will help you adjust to your own voice. 2. Practice Wearing Your Hearing Aids To help you get used to the devices, try to find out where different sounds in your environment are coming from. Have a conversation with a loved one. When you are alone, listen to an audiobook or a podcast. 3. Take Breaks from Your Hearing Aids They should be worn for a few hours during the first day of using them, then gradually add a few more hours each day onwards. After you’ve adjusted to them, they should be worn all day, from the moment when you wake up to the moment when you get ready to sleep. 4. Schedule Follow-up Appointments You should visit your hearing instrument specialist whenever necessary so they can make adjustments as needed. This could include changes to the programs on the hearing aids, or the way they fit in your ears. Discuss any problems that you are having with the devices with your provider. Most people schedule an appointment with their hearing instrument specialist about two weeks after their first fitting to get the hearing aids tuned or fix the volume. 5. Attend a Hearing aid Demo Event In addition to one-on-one appointments with our hearing instruments specialists, Pure Sound occasionally offers demo events for new hearing aid users. They are very helpful demonstrations that can make transitioning into a hearing aid user easier, and so you can get the most out of your hearing aids. 6. Be aware that Adapting to Hearing Aids Takes Time There will be moments of frustration or feeling overwhelmed by noises that you haven’t heard in a while. The sound of a refrigerator or any other background noise that most people don’t notice may suddenly seem distracting. This is due to the fact that your brain forgot the process of blocking out background noises and prioritizes some sounds more than the less important sounds. Adapting to new hearing aids requires relearning how to block out background noise. As you get used to the hearing aids, programs within the devices can be set up to block out the background noise. Just ask your hearing instrument specialist for this adjustment. 7. If You feel Pain while Wearing Hearing Aids Notify Your Provider Based on your personal hearing requirements, you might wear hearing aids with customized earmolds. This means they should rest snugly against your ears. When you first put them on, the devices may slightly hurt your ears. If it’s very painful, inform your provider and schedule an appointment immediately so that they may correct the problem. Generally, hearing aids that have the receiver-in-ear with domes are easier to become accustomed to because they don’t make your ear canals feel plugged the way earmolds can. They also don’t hurt the ear canals. If you or a loved one are noticing hearing loss and may need hearing aids, contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a complimentary hearing test and consultation. If you are new to hearing aids, figuring out how to use them can be a learning curve. Like all technology, once you get the hang of it, will be easy.
Linking up Hearing Aids with Your Smartphone Just about every modern digital hearing aid can be paired with a smartphone. Audio files from your phone, computer, or tablet can be streamed through your hearing aids. They can basically be used like wireless Bluetooth® headphones. Not every hearing aid that features Bluetooth® is compatible with every smartphone brand. Android and iPhone are the only two smartphone brands that pair with hearing aids. It’s simple to set up because the technology automatically pairs them. Switch on the Bluetooth® Feature Through your smartphone, select the Settings app. Search for Bluetooth®, select it and switch it on. Find Your Hearing Aids Listed in the Settings app Through the iPhone, go to the Settings app. Find and select the “Accessibility” feature. Then find “Hearing Devices”, and select it. Your hearing aids should be shown. Through the Android phone, after the Bluetooth® is switched on, your phone should have started searching for other Bluetooth®-enabled devices to link up to. It should only take a few seconds for your hearing aids to show up on the list. For either one of these smartphone brands, if your hearing aids do not show up on your phone, the battery doors might need to be opened and closed, or you might need to place them back in the recharger. This switches them off and on again so that your phone can detect them. When your hearing aids are listed as an option on your phone, select them. They will start their connection, which may take 30 seconds or more. Pairing Additional Devices to Your Hearing Aids Smartphone Streaming Systems Even if your hearing aids are not Made for iPhone or Made for Android, wireless streaming is still available between your smartphone and hearing aids. You’ll just need a small, separate device known as a streamer. It can clip onto your shirt collar, or hang around your neck and be covered by your clothes. Alternative Streamers Different circumstances - even those with smartphone-compatible hearing accessories - need a streaming device if you want audio transferred to your hearing aids. TV streamers, mini-microphones, and other devices can help you hear clearly. There are different styles of streamers that are unique to every hearing aid manufacturer. They are just as simple or, in some cases, more simple than connecting hearing aids to your smartphone. If you or a loved one need hearing aids and/or an assistive streaming device for listening, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a complimentary consultation. You may have experienced hearing a wide range of noises from the softness of a loved one’s voice to the sirens on a fire truck, or a more soothing sound of your favorite music. These sounds are measured using a decibel. This is a ratio between power, sound pressure, and voltage.
Measuring the Intensity of Sound Sound moves in the form of energy waves. It is measured via frequency and amplitude.
The Increase in Decibels is Exponential A 10 dB increase indicates that the sound is 10 times louder, and a 20 dB increase indicates that the sound is 100 times louder. A List of Decibels for Common Sounds Simply being told a number for a decibel measurement probably doesn’t mean anything, unless you are a hearing healthcare professional or someone who frequently uses a decibel meter app. Hearing loss can occur with decibels as low as 70 (that’s after frequent or prolonged exposure). These noises can lead to immediate and permanent hearing loss after one exposure at close-range: 150-160 dB - A shotgun/firearm 140 dB - A jet engine as it departs a runway/fireworks 120 dB - An emergency vehicle siren/concerts These noises can lead to noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) after regular, prolonged exposure: 110 dB - A rock concert 105-130 dB - Sports events (based on the size and style of the arena/stadium) 105 dB - Playing music through earbuds or headphones at the highest volume 100 dB - A motorcycle 90 dB - Power tools/lawn mower 80-90 dB - Heavy traffic Anyone with untreated mild-to-moderate hearing loss tends to struggle with hearing these softer sounds: 70 dB - Vacuum cleaner 60 dB - Normal conversation with one other person 50 dB - A conversation among a group of people 20 dB - Rustling leaves 10 dB - Breathing How are Decibels Measured? Hearing loss is measured according to the lowest range of decibels that you can hear. A person with normal hearing can hear leaves rustling or water dripping into the sink or on the ground (~10 dB), but someone with mild hearing loss would not be able to hear that sound. Frequency and pitch are other parts of hearing loss. Loss of hearing in higher frequencies is more common than in lower frequencies. There are different combinations of decibel and frequency loss. Normal hearing ability: 10-20 dB Mild hearing loss: 25-40 dB Moderate hearing loss: 40-55 dB Moderately severe hearing loss: 55-69 dB Severe hearing loss: 70-89 dB Profound hearing loss: 90-120 dB How can You tell if an Environment is too Loud? If you are in a noisy area and concerned that you could lose your hearing, here are a few things you can do:
Be Cautious, especially if You Have Hearing Loss. If you wear hearing aids, you need to be aware of the noise levels in your environment. Hearing aids amplify sounds, so you are still at risk of hearing loss just like everyone else. You can ask your hearing instrument specialist to program a special setting for these occasions. Do not turn off your hearing aids as a way to try and protect your hearing. If they are not snugly fit in your ear canal, they will not be able to block out harmful sounds when switched off. Instead, you won’t be able to hear the sounds that you want/need to hear. Work with a professional hearing instrument specialist to establish the correct hearing protection for the event that you will attend or the activity that you will be participating in. If you or a loved one are experiencing hearing loss, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a complimentary hearing test and consultation. Work plays a significant role in your social status. A general sense of achievement and self-worth is felt in us when we work. Tinnitus Hub, a group of people with tinnitus who work for the tinnitus patient community, focus on patient support and education, promote research, and raise awareness, gathered data indicating that over a third (38 percent) of employees have expressed that their symptoms had a negative impact on their work.
This doesn’t just disrupt the workflow of the employee, but it can affect their income and the economy in general. Tinnitus Talk is a worldwide online community for tinnitus patients. Volunteers who run this organization are pushing to raise awareness so that it’s taken more seriously as a problem that can impact work environments. Tinnitus Hub Statistics from 2018 A survey with 1,800 participants asked, “Has tinnitus affected your job or work prospects?”
Difficulty with Concentration The main effect of tinnitus on the job is the inability to focus. There’s a spectrum of how patients with tinnitus struggle. According to the survey, tinnitus affected concentration mildly (41 percent), moderately (33 percent), or severely (20 percent). Only a small percentage reported a lack of problems with concentration. This is significantly different from the “concentration/listening fatigue” that individuals with hearing loss may encounter. In some cases, their brain needs to make an extra effort to interpret what they heard. It’s due to constantly hearing the tinnitus in their head while refocusing it to the background in order to concentrate on something else. Anyone who struggles with tinnitus can find coping mechanisms from sound machines or hearing aids, to meditation. Patients with severe forms of tinnitus generally experience anxiety and/or insomnia, which can affect their performance at work. Most people cannot grasp the daily stress of constantly hearing a high-pitched sound. Difficult Work Environments There are certain jobs that frequently expose people to loud noises that can damage hearing or induce tinnitus. These include construction, manufacturing, military service, and the music industry. Low-level exposure to sounds on a regular basis for hours at a time, like in a call center, school, or restaurant can cause some harm to a person’s hearing health. Anyone with tinnitus may notice more sensitivity to sound (hyperacusis). As a result, normal office work environments can lead to ear pain or loud instances of tinnitus. Commuting to work can be a struggle for someone with hyperacusis. Traffic noises can spike tinnitus symptoms. Potential Negative Reactions from Employers and Coworkers Many people with tinnitus have pointed out the ignorance of employers or colleagues, along with how unwilling they are to make changes that would benefit a person with tinnitus. Some are hesitant to reveal this information for fear of discrimination. How to Help Every employee should be accommodated. If the tinnitus is stress-induced, the anxiety tends to pass for most people. It can take weeks, months, or even years to obtain habituation. Others may turn to permanently adjust their situation by working a less demanding job. If you’d like to consider using hearing aids to mask tinnitus symptoms, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a complimentary hearing test and consultation. The Hearing Aid Dome
Domes are tiny, malleable, bell or mushroom-shaped silicone parts that are connected to the end of hearing aid tubing and rest deep inside the ear canal. These are also known as tips. After the domes on hearing aids are inserted inside the ear, once the hearing aids are on, they transfer sounds from the microphone, into your ears. The dome is meant to secure the small speakers that transfer sounds to the ears. They are available in various standard sizes to fit a person’s unique ear shape. Domes are generally paired with behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids, which are also called receiver-in-the-canal (RIC) or receiver in the ear (RITE). Domes are attached to the hearing aids through a wire surrounded by a thin tube. These are available in various sizes. Your hearing instrument specialist can find the right dome and tubing that’s customized for your ears. These hearing aid styles place the speaker inside the ear canal, while the processor and microphone rest over the top of the ear. Should You use a Hearing Aid Dome? Hearing aids that feature domes are primarily used by patients with mild-to-moderate hearing loss, particularly those who have high-frequency hearing loss. These hearing aid styles are usually small. They feature a microphone and processor inside a small case and sit behind the ear. The speaker is connected to the processor through a thin tube or wire that sits behind the ear. This hearing aid style should not be worn by anyone with severe-to-profound hearing loss. A behind-the-ear (BTE) device that has an earmold would be more appropriate. A customized earmold has powerful amplification and is less likely to become damaged from moisture in the ear canal. Everyone is different, so personal preferences will vary from person to person. What are the Positive and Negative Characteristics of Hearing Aid Domes? The Positives An advantage of using hearing aid domes is the way it fits in your ear canals. Low-frequency sounds can still be heard through an “open fit”. Hearing aids need to be vented so that ears don’t become occluded. Natural sounds and airflow must travel through the ear in order for sounds to be pleasant and comprehensible. Cleaning domes is a breeze. Simply use a soft cloth to wipe them off at the end of the day. If there’s debris or earwax on them, you can use a loop brush or professional strength hearing aid cleaning wipes. These can be purchased at our Pure Sound Hearing offices. Hearing aid manufacturers have the same sizes and styles of domes, so replacing them is inexpensive. The Negatives Hearing aid domes need to be changed at least every two to three months due to wear and tear. It is possible to get a dome stuck in your ear, so it’s important to be aware of this and be careful. Discuss the frequency of changing out the domes and maintenance. DO NOT wear old domes with new hearing aids. They may not be compatible and could get stuck in your ears if they cannot remain fastened to the receiver. Domes are also prone to damage caused by earwax or moisture in the ear. They may also be tricky to handle due to their size and a person’s dexterity problems. Work with a Professional Hearing Instrument Specialist Get help from a hearing instrument specialist (HIS). They are highly trained to address a patient’s hearing aid needs. A poor fit can impact your ability to hear clearly, and comfort levels while wearing the hearing aids. Feedback noises can also occur due to a poor fit hearing aid. Everyone has a unique ear shape and range of hearing loss, so a HIS will be able to tweak and program an individual’s device to correspond with their particular listening needs. If you, or a loved one, are experiencing hearing loss and need a hearing test, contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a complimentary hearing test and consultation. If you wear hearing aids and plan to attend a concert this summer, consider some of these issues that may come up.
Whether you wear your hearing aids to a concert depends on your preferences. Some would recommend removing your hearing aids and wearing earplugs instead to protect your hearing. Depending on the music genre, the sounds will generally be loud enough for you to hear. If you choose to wear your hearing aids during a concert, you can turn down the volume on the devices. Additional protection like noise-canceling earmuffs can be helpful. These are better at canceling out sounds than earplugs while shielding the sound-transmitting bones that make up your ears. Encourage others who arrived at the concert with you to protect their hearing health. Concerts run for about 60-90 minutes, so bring your hearing aids along. After the event is over you’ll need them to hear your friends. Ask the Venue about Accessibility Services Prior to your visit, contact the music venue to ask about accessibility options. Most concert halls and venues feature systems to help audience members who can’t hear clearly, have mobility issues, or have any other problem that can interfere with how they enjoy their time at the concert. The T-Mobile Arena accessibility guide features different accommodation options. Captioning services can be provided to make sure you don’t miss anything. Make sure that the services which are listed on the venue’s website, will be available during your visit. The majority of venues need a warning beforehand so that they may accurately accommodate your needs. Get Recommendations from Your Hearing Instrument Specialist All hearing aids are different with a variety of features, so talk to your hearing instrument specialist for recommendations. For example, some hearing aids feature telecoils or t-coils. T-coils can connect with loop systems within buildings. The loop system focuses on the music at the concert, while blocking out background noises like echoes. If your hearing aids feature a telecoil, your hearing instrument specialist will demonstrate how it works. Hearing aids can also be programmed by your hearing instrument specialist so that you can have the best listening experience during the concert. Preparing for a Live Concert To make sure you have a great concert experience, here are some tips. Don’t go alone Not only is going with a friend more fun, but if your friend has stronger hearing abilities, they’ll be able to guide you through the area if the volume on your hearing aids needs to be turned down. Stand or sit near the stage If possible, be closer to the stage or a speaker. There will be less interference from other audience members. If you depend on an ASL interpreter, you’ll be more likely to see them if you are near the stage. Be prepared when making purchases Whether you are buying drinks, food, or merch, it can be overwhelming to choose when there’s too much background noise. Instead of making decisions on the spot, look online for merch or at a menu before selecting. Switch off hearing aids if necessary If sounds become overwhelming, turn off your hearing aids or wear hearing protection. Make your friends aware of this before the show so they know the best way to get your attention. Contact us at Pure Sound Hearing if you need your hearing aids programmed before your next concert. The creators of Barbie, an American doll manufacturer that has been producing these figures for 63 years, have released a new set of dolls in an effort to promote diversity and inclusivity.
There will be a number of new dolls in this diverse collection. A Barbie with hearing aids and a Ken doll with the skin condition vitiligo will be among these new additions. In the past, there have been other Barbie dolls in a wheelchair or with a prosthetic leg. Mattel’s Global Head of Barbie Dolls, Lisa McKnight, stated in a press release that more children will be able to “see themselves reflected” through these figures. McKnight also believes that children should be encouraged to play with dolls that do not look like them so that they can better “understand and celebrate the importance of inclusion.” The Barbie with hearing aids wears hot pink hearing aids in each ear. If you, or a loved one, are experiencing hearing loss and may need hearing aids, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a complimentary hearing test and consultation. If you’re an iPhone user who wears hearing aids, you may have been experiencing problems with the latest software update (iOS 15.4) that had led to your device becoming disconnected from your hearing aids. Here are some tips to restore your connection:
Separate the Pairing
Pair Your Hearing Aids Again Restart each of your devices in order to place them in pairing mode. Put them near your iPhone.
When the hearing aids have been paired, do not turn off your phone for a few days. You should occasionally lower the power so that it can reset. This connectivity issue typically occurs when the phone is switched off and then back on. Leave it alone for a while so that you don’t have to reconnect it every day. If you are still having trouble connecting your hearing aids with your iPhone or any smartphone, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for tech support from one of our hearing instrument specialists. If you, or someone in your life, are a hearing aid user, making sure that the devices are working at their ideal function is crucial for healthy hearing, great communication, and good quality of life. Here are some tips that you may not be aware of when taking care of hearing aids.
1. Before Inserting and Removing Your Hearing Aids, Clean Your Hands. Avoid bacteria from infecting your ears by regularly cleaning your hearing aids. Dirt buildup might not allow your hearing aids to function at their best. Clean your hands before inserting them and removing them. 2. The Battery Door should Always be Closed Unless you use hearing aids with rechargeable batteries, make sure that the battery door is firmly closed after the disposable batteries are placed in the hearing aids. If the door is opened, the hearing aids may not work or the sound amplification may be lowered. If the battery door won’t shut completely, try flipping the battery around. Check if there’s any damage on the battery door, it may need to be fixed. 3. If a Friend or Family Member Hears Feedback Noises from Your Hearing Aids Sometimes hearing aids might make a high pitches noise. This is known as feedback noise. It can happen for two different reasons: poorly fit hearing aids or the feedback loop is too close to a speaker/another device that makes a sound. Someone that you are with will probably hear this, but you may not be able to hear it as clearly. If this happens, remove the hearing aid(s) and cup it/ them in your hand. This will decrease the high-pitched noise and remove the hearing aid(s) away from whatever may be causing the noise. When the noise subsides, place the hearing aids back in your ears. The microphones and receiver should work correctly. 4. Keep Hearing Aids Protected from Extreme Weather Conditions that are too hot and humid or too cold can damage your hearing aids. The best place to store them is in a cool, dark, dry place. Use a special case for the devices when you are not wearing them. If they get wet, you can soak them in silica gel or even place them in a bowl of dry, uncooked rice. 5. Daily Cleanings Hearing aids need to be lightly cleaned each day. Use alcohol-free cleaning wipes and cleaning tools to help remove dirt and debris. Every six months, we recommend getting a professional deep cleaning. You can get these cleaning wipes, tools, and services from our offices at Pure Sound Hearing. 6. Use a Dryer Hearing aids retain moisture from the body and other external elements like rainy weather. Like any electronics, moisture can damage the hearing aids, resulting in subpar efficiency. Get a hearing aid dryer to prevent this from happening. A dryer removes moisture from the devices so that they can work at optimum levels. 7. Dome Replacements The part of the receiver that goes into your ear canal is the dome. These should be replaced every four to six weeks. Hearing aids with domes that are not properly cleaned or replaced after four to six weeks, will not have the best possible sound quality. This is caused by clogged debris and bacteria. Your hearing aid provider can replace the dome for you, or you can change them on your own. Make sure that they are properly placed on the receiver or other problems may arise, like feedback noise or the dome might get stuck in the ear. 8. Wax on Hearing Aids, Wax off Hearing Aids Earwax can impede a hearing aid’s performance. Cleaning your ears and hearing aids regularly from earwax can help your hearing aids work at their optimal level. Simply use a soft dry cloth or cleaning wipes to get the wax off from your hearing aids each night when you take them out before going to bed. Do not use cotton swabs to clean out the ears. They can worsen your hearing loss by pushing earwax further into your ears. Instead, clean them out with a washcloth dipped in warm water. Check out these additional tips. If you need a hearing test and maybe even hearing aids, contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a complimentary hearing test and consultation. If there have been any noticeable shifts in your hearing health and you think that you have some range of hearing loss, get it checked out immediately. Receiving a professional assessment for your hearing loss can narrow down the options that are available for you, and improve your overall health. Early detection is crucial for reducing additional loss.
First, you need to schedule an appointment with experienced hearing health care providers. Here are three advantages to seeking help from a hearing instrument specialist: 1. A hearing instrument specialist can give you a hearing evaluation. Most people believe that a hearing instrument specialist only assists you with your hearing aid selection process. That is one part of their job, but they also determine your range of hearing loss and advise you on whether hearing aids would be an appropriate solution. 2. A hearing instrument specialist can pair the most suitable hearing aid to fit your listening needs. Hearing loss is unique to each individual. There is no “one size fits all” or “best hearing aid”. Hearing aids come in different styles, types, and brands. Finding out whether you have hearing loss after a hearing test is just the first, but most important, step towards better hearing. The next step is to figure out which hearing aids would improve your hearing. Results from a hearing test and a hearing instrument specialist’s expertise will help you find the right devices. Whether you have an active or sedentary lifestyle or need to work within a certain budget, a hearing instrument specialist will not only advise you on the best hearing aids for you but will also provide custom programming on the devices. 3. A hearing instrument specialist will give maintenance advice, repairs, and aftercare services. In addition to receiving the appropriate pair of hearing aids, your hearing instrument specialist will also be available for extra services to help guide you through getting the most out of your hearing aids. If you need any repairs, cleanings, or supplies for the hearing aids, they will be happy to provide these services. Get in touch with us at Pure Sound Hearing if you, or a loved one, are noticing hearing loss. Our hearing instrument specialists are available to administer hearing tests, guide you through your hearing aid selection process, and any other hearing aid maintenance services that you may need. The invention of the ear trumpet during the 17th century and today’s digital hearing aids are just some of the historical breakthroughs in hearing.
It’s incredible how we’ve gone from simple using our hands as a natural sound harnesser to programmable hearing devices that come in all shapes, sizes, styles, and colors. Hearing Aid Devices Hearing aids are programmable medical devices that were designed to treat people with certain ranges of hearing loss. As long as they can benefit a person with hearing loss, they are usually the primary solution for anyone with hearing loss. Natural hearing cannot be restored with hearing aids, but they can amplify certain frequencies so that the user can feel as though they’ve regained some of the hearing that they’ve lost. Hearing loss can happen at any age. Some people are born with it, others come in contact with loud noises that impact their hearing, autoimmune diseases or other ailments can cause hearing loss, or simply an aging body can gradually lead to hearing loss. One in eight people in the U.S. who are at least 12-years-old experience bilateral hearing loss. Celebrities like Halle Berry and Jodie Foster wear hearing aids. Hearing loss that goes untreated can create more problems in your daily life. Simple interactions with coworkers, healthcare providers, and even friends and family can become challenging. You may prefer to isolate yourself from these situations, which can lead to depression. It may be surprising that among adults who are at least 70 years of age and could benefit from wearing hearing aids, less than 30% use them. The Invention of the First Man-Made Hearing Aid There were many varieties of hearing aids before today’s digital hearing aids became widely used. Today, hearing aid technology is changing at a rapid pace with more conveniences and features than ever before. The very first hearing aid creation was the ‘ear trumpet’. This was a tubular mechanism that was designed to siphon sounds into the ear. These funnels were made out of animal horns, snail shells, wood, silver, or sheet metal. Their usage can be traced back to the 17th century. A French priest and mathematician named Jean Leurechon first referenced the ear trumpet in the Recreations mathématiques in 1634. The conical ear trumpets were also customized by instrument specialists. Just like today, hearing instrument specialists can customize the fit and programming for each person’s individual listening needs for the best results. The Inventor of the First Hearing Aid The ear trumpet, though impressive for its time, turned out not to be as useful as originally thought. It simply amplified all sounds. Better technology was created. In 1889 the Akouphone was invented by Miller Rees Hutchinson. It was the first hearing aid that utilized a carbon transmitter. The carbon transmitter had an electric current that could change a weak signal into a stronger signal. It featured an individual microphone, amplifier, headphones, and battery (which did not last long). The device was bulky and challenging to use. It was also very expensive, so few people used the Akouphone. Among the wealthy, it was considered a success. The American press called it a “miracle”. Queen Alexandra of Denmark was thrilled with the results that Hutchinson was invited to attend her husband’s coronation. 19th Century Hearing Aid History The potential business from hearing aids received more attention from manufacturing companies that specialize in mass production, and engineers who wanted to make more advancements with the device. This is what led to the variety of hearing aid products that are currently available. Just like many inventions, it took trials and errors to improve the devices. Technology is always quickly changing and there are always improvements that need to be made with current hearing aids. What is Vacuum Tube Technology? The first vacuum-tube technology was patented in 1920, by Naval engineer Earl Hanson. It was known as the Vactuphone. This invention utilized the telephone transmitter to translate speech into electrical signals, then amplified via a receiver. This became a huge hit, and vacuum tube hearing aids were marketed in the U.S. in 1923. Just like today’s technology, smaller versions of these devices became available throughout the 1930s. They were sold as wearables starting in 1936, and became popular across the country. During this period, the amplifier and batteries were donned on your neck and the microphone was held by hand. The size of it was equivalent to your range of hearing loss. As a result, conversations mimicked a news reporter. Transistor Hearing Aid Transistors played a crucial role in the evolution of hearing aids. They were introduced in 1948, replacing vacuum tubes due to their better performance. Less battery power was utilized, there were fewer distortions and heat compared to vacuum tubes, and they were more discreet. Manufacturers were thrilled about the benefits of transistors, but sufficient testing was not implemented on the transistor hearing aids. Due to their carelessness, the devices stopped working within weeks of a customer’s purchase. Moisture in the hearing aids interrupted the transistor and it would stop functioning. This ushered in the invention of a protective layer and silicon transistor to repel sweat. Microprocessor and Compression Hearing Aids In 1970 the microprocessor was invented. It sped up the process of making hearing aids smaller and modernized. A researcher named Edgar Villchur built upon this invention by improving hearing for its users. He made advancements by making an analog multi-channel amplitude compression device that let audio signals separate into frequency bands. They had the ability to finely-tune analog sound in a non-linear manner. This is how specific sounds could be lowered and other sounds could be made louder. High-Speed Processors and Minicomputers During the 1970s, high-speed digital-array processors were starting to be used with minicomputers. In 1982, digital, real-time array processing hearing aids were created at the City University of New York. It was used as part of a research tool to study digital signal processing. Even though this was a major advancement, like many devices that were made up to this point it was big and heavy. Inside was a minicomputer, a digital-array processor, an FM transmitter, and a receiver. The 1980s established the creation of digital chips that were used for high-speed digital signal processing. These enabled fast processing but were pretty hefty and drained too much power, so it wouldn’t be practical to wear them as hearing aids. As more advancements were later made, these inconveniences became more manageable with the help of A. Maynard Engebretson, Robert E. Morley Jr., and Gerald R. Popelka, Ph. D. from the Central Institute for the Deaf (CID). The First Complete Pair of Digital Hearing Aids In 1987, the Nicolet Corporation introduced the first commercial digital hearing aid on the market, without much commercial achievement. Even though it seemed like a bit of a failure companies saw that it was possible to market, and improvements could be made. It became a race to create functional hearing aids that could be marketed to a wider audience of people with hearing loss. There were quicker developments and leading hearing aid companies presented different combinations of instruments that used analog amplifiers, filters, and inhibitors that were digitally controlled. Hearing Aids of the 21st Century Hearing aid technology and usage has advanced greatly in modern times, thanks to the work and technology that has been refined. Bluetooth®-connected devices and rechargeable batteries make hearing aids more convenient for today’s users. In addition to hearing aids, devices like Personal Sound Amplification Products (PSAPs) give people with hearing loss a way to hear their surroundings. They can control background noise by using ambient sound, isolation, and suppression. These devices help enhance your environmental sounds (whether it’s an office setting, class setting, or somewhere else), but should not be used as a replacement for hearing aids if you have moderate to severe hearing loss. These provide two different benefits and should be used when paired together, rather than working on their own. If you or a loved one are experiencing difficulties with hearing, get in touch with us at Pure Sound Hearing for a complimentary hearing test and consultation. The sale of over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids is meant to lower the cost of hearing aids, which sounds like a good way to make sure that everyone who needs hearing aids will be able to afford them. But a salesperson who is promoting OTC hearing devices does not have the knowledge and expertise of a hearing instrument specialist. Receiving a proper fitting, professional experience, and long-term care for the devices is crucial in getting the most out of your hearing aids. Investing in a local business, like Pure Sound Hearing, ensures quality service. Here are six reasons why you should work with a hearing instrument specialist.
1. Tech-savvy Hearing instrument specialists are licensed to sell hearing aids. They know the technology, are versed in proper care, repairs, and maintenance. Problems regarding feedback noise, corroded batteries, or anything else can be resolved with their help. 2. The Fit Comfort and performance are important factors in hearing aid usage. Standard hearing aid domes or a customized hearing aid that fits the contours of your ear ensures that you are not only hearing at your best but are also wearing devices that are securely fit. A secure fitting also ensures that feedback noises (the whistling sounds) are not blaring from the hearing aids. Customized programming for the hearing aids is also done by a hearing instrument specialist. They will base the programming on your preferences, lifestyle, and the environments that you frequent. Monitoring your progress, while making adjustments as needed can ensure that you’ll get the most out of your hearing aids. After receiving a new pair of hearing aids, you may notice discomfort, or feel like the hearing aids aren’t working. It’s important to remember this: adapting to hearing aids takes time. 3. Your Relationship with Your Provider Hearing loss is complicated. There are many types and causes, along with comorbidities that are connected to hearing loss. It can initially be difficult to become accustomed to hearing aids. Our providers at Pure Sound will be here to guide you and answer your questions along the way. 4. Tinnitus Hearing loss and tinnitus (the constant ringing, clicking, or whistling sound) often, but not always, go hand in hand. Ongoing research is helping professionals in the hearing healthcare world understand more about it. Providing support and solutions through hearing aids can help patients make their tinnitus symptoms more manageable. 5. Reliability Other than receiving the best support from a hearing instrument specialist, there is evidence that programming hearing aids on your own, or selecting a one-size-fits-all device (basically an amplifier) can cause more damage to your hearing. At Pure Sound Hearing, a series of tests will be performed to assess your hearing loss and make sure that the hearing aids provided will be tailored for your range of hearing loss. Too much amplification can do more damage to your hearing, and a poorly-fit hearing aid can lead to earwax build-up. 6. Hearing Aids are an Investment Even though OTC hearing aids may save you money at first, over time, the poor quality of the technology and services (or lack thereof) will become evident. A hearing instrument specialist will provide warranty protection, professional hearing aid cleanings, advice on upgrades, and any advice you need on hearing aid care and maintenance. If you or a loved one are experiencing hearing loss, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a complimentary hearing test and consultation. Hearing loss is common. There’s a procedure that you can follow in order to make treatment for your hearing loss go smoothly. One of those steps will be to schedule an appointment with a hearing instrument specialist. These are professionals who are knowledgeable about hearing aid technology and other assistive listening devices. They will be one of the most important people to see in your journey to better hearing. Here are some of the benefits that you will get from visiting one.
Hearing Aid Technology Experts The primary help that you will receive from a hearing instrument specialist is their proficiency in digital hearing aids, and programming the devices. Hearing aids are intricate pieces of technology, so having someone who can answer your questions is always convenient. Extensive knowledge about each Style and Brand of Hearing Aids There are so many different styles and brands of hearing aids to try out. Someone who knows about each type of hearing aid and how they function differently can help you narrow down your search. Your hearing instrument specialist will be very knowledgeable about each device and model. They will be able to steer you in the right direction and guide you along the way to a life of healthy hearing. Fit and Programmed Hearing Aids A hearing instrument specialist is professionally skilled in fitting patients with hearing aids. They will determine the proper fit and demonstrate how the hearing aids work. They have the training and tools to fit and program the hearing aids for you. This will guarantee that the devices are functioning at their best and tailored to your specific needs. Repairs, Replacements, Restoration Like all modern technology, there will be instances when your hearing aids will require repairs. That’s where help from your hearing instrument specialist comes in handy. They will quickly be able to provide repairs for your devices. If you, or a loved one, are experiencing any problems with your hearing aids, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing. The Emerald M 8C is discreet yet powerful and has very long battery life. If you experience severe hearing loss, this is the device for you.
It has an optional T-coil for streaming, which gives you maximum flexibility. Use the Rexton App for discreet control. Features:
Learn more about the Emerald M 8C, and its compatible devices by contacting us at Pure Sound Hearing for a free trial. Hearing aids can help make hearing and communication easier. But understanding speech and background noises might still make it difficult to hear. If that’s the case, Signia’s hearing aid may benefit you.
Signia Hearing Aid Options Signia features devices for those with mild to profound hearing loss, along with Contralateral Routing of Signals (CROS) hearing aids for those who suffer from single-sided deafness (SSD). Signia hearing aids use Augmented Xperience and Signia Xperience, which help enhance speech recognition and suppress background noises. You can see more of the styles from Signia by following this page. Scroll over the Products drop-down menu and click on a hearing aid product that you’d like to learn more about. Valuable Features
A Closer Look at Signia Hearing Aids There are six primary hearing aid lines with different models. Here’s an overview of each. Signia Insio Charge&Go AX
Signia Motion X Charge&Go X
Signia Pure 312 AX
Signia Active Pro
Signia Silk X
Signia Styletto X
Customizations and Features Based on which hearing aids you select, you may receive customized options on these devices: Augmented Xperience (AX): Two different processors are used: one for honing in on speech sounds and blocking out background noises. This is known as Augmented Focus and may allow users to better understand speech by 25% in busy environments compared to other hearing aids. This technology can be accessed through Insio Charge&Go AX, Pure Charge&Go AX and T AX, and CROS Pure Charge&Go AX models. For a free trial of any of these hearing aids, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a complimentary hearing test and consultation. Do have hearing loss and experienced the frustrations of communicating with people at a hospital? Here are some tips for managing your hearing loss during a hospital visit.
Hearing loss can be equally as important to address as the healthcare emergency that landed you in the hospital. Not being able to completely understand the medical professionals who are taking care of you can be just as scary as your health emergency. Hospitals can be busy and noisy. People rush in, there are loud machines or announcements over the intercoms, and all sorts of people - from personnel to other patients and their loved ones - are around you and talking all at once. From masked staff members to healthcare workers with unfamiliar accents, it can be overwhelming. It’s important not to guess or tell people who are helping you that you understand what they are saying when you don’t. An incorrect response could put your entire health at risk. A lot of people, particularly the older population, go to the hospital without hearing aids. Many people with hearing loss don’t even have hearing aids due to financial reasons, or denial about their hearing loss. When you are in a noisy and busy environment, like a hospital, your hearing loss can lead to more problems. People who have Hearing Loss are More Prone to Hospitalizations Approximately 40 million adults in the U.S. have some range of hearing loss and are more likely to require hospital care. According to research from Johns Hopkins, of these 40 million adults, untreated hearing loss has a 17 percent higher risk of visits to the emergency room. They are also more likely to stay in the hospital, spend more days in the hospital, and have a 44 percent risk of being readmitted within 30 days. Practices the Hospitals can Implement Hospitals can help patients with hearing loss by:
Make sure to Advocate for Yourself, or Get Help from a Loved One Let staff, personnel, and other medical professionals know that you have hearing loss. If necessary, caregivers may need to take on this role. It is very important that you speak up about your hearing loss, and ask for accommodations. Hearing loss is an invisible disability. On rare occasions, patients have been sent to the “behavioral health” unit where individuals with mental health issues go after misunderstanding or mishearing a question, or even misspeaking. Wearing Hearing Aids in the Hospital Even though it is recommended to wear hearing aids from the moment you wake up to the moment you go to sleep, some people leave them at home because they are afraid of losing them. If you decided to do this, alert the hospital staff about your hearing loss. Ask for a hearing amplifier. Plan ahead of time and practice using captioning apps. Otter is a great choice. With this app, conversations can be transcribed in real-time on your smartphone. For legal reasons, hospitals cannot provide this for you, but you may use it yourself. If you choose to bring your hearing aids, and they need to be recharged, bring your charger along. The hospital that you go to might be able to track down a charger for you. Remember to carry extra batteries. You can always ask staff members if they have hearing aid batteries available for you. Hearing is Important to make Proper Medical Decisions Making medical decisions can happen at any stage during your hospital visit, especially if you arrived for an emergency. Whether you can hear or have trouble with hearing, it can be difficult to understand complicated or unfamiliar medical terms/procedures. Whenever possible, have a friend or family member with good hearing and concentration involved in your decision. You may also use a transcriber on your phone. Make sure it’s accurate, and get help from the medical staff to verify its accuracy. If you find it too distracting to listen and watch at the same time, record the conversation and read the transcript at a later time. Remind doctors, nurses, and other staff members that you are hard of hearing and ask them to speak up or repeat themselves when necessary. What if Your loved one won’t Admit They Have Hearing Loss? You cannot assume medical staff members will notice that your loved one has hearing loss. On average, only about half of the staff employees will be able to recognize this. Make sure that you inform staff members during the initial admittance and when seeing new medical staff members that your loved one has difficulty with hearing. This is especially important in hospice care and nursing homes. If you or a loved one, experiences hearing loss and want an easier experience interacting with medical staff, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing. We offer assistive listening devices that can help make your emergency visits pan out better, or we can show you how to use transcription apps. Receiving Services from a Hearing Care Provider can Improve Overall Experience with Hearing Aids1/18/2022 We have mentioned the reasons why it’s best to receive services from a local hearing aid provider.
Hearing care services are usually included with the cost of hearing aids. Learn more about hearing care plans offered by Pure Sound by visiting our Unbundled Pricing page. This includes cleanings, re-fittings, re-programmings, and any other issues that may arise during your adjustment period. You will not receive these same services if you purchase them online or over-the-counter (OTC). Adapting to hearing aids takes time and patience. Additional tuning and adjustments are necessary in order to get the most out of your journey towards better hearing. Hearing Aid/Care Services are Generally NOT included with the Purchase of Cheap Hearing Aids Cheaper hearing aids usually do not feature these services to care for the devices. This is why they are cheaper. It’s also why many customers leave feeling unhappy with their purchase. It’s a waste of money. In fact, you will need more care and maintenance because the cheaper hearing aids are not carefully fit or programmed by a hearing aid specialist. The investment that you make with your hearing aids is important for your hearing health, which can impact your overall health. Make sure that you are happy with your hearing aids by ensuring that you will have access to extra services when they are necessary. If you are in need of hearing aids with professional care and services, contact us at Pure Sound Hearing to set up an appointment with one of our hearing instrument specialists. If you currently experience hearing loss, protect your hearing from getting worse and discover what helps you hear better.
How to Stop Your Hearing from getting Worse Medication and surgery are not treatment options for noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). Hair cells that are damaged cause permanent hearing loss, so it’s very important to protect your hearing. If you experience hearing loss, here are some tips to stop or slow down the additional loss.
Consider a Device to Help You Hear Hearing Aids
Assistive Listening Devices (ALD)
If you or a loved one notices a change in hearing abilities, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a complimentary hearing test and consultation. Purchasing new hearing aids is a crucial decision that can make positive changes in your life. Your hearing health and overall body and mental health can have significant improvements. Take your time and seek guidance from a professional hearing instrument specialist who will discuss your hearing needs and concerns that you may have.
Hearing Aids usage in Society People of all ages wear hearing aids. Some are visible with bright colors, while others are more discreet and practically invisible. Technological advancements allow them to not only help with your hearing and brain health, but they also help you stay social with others on their own or with the help of Bluetooth®-connected devices, like your smartphone. Some people who need hearing aids, do not wear them for various reasons including:
Early inaction can be devastating to your future hearing health. When the signs of hearing loss become more noticeable by yourself, your family, friends, co-workers, or others with whom you interact, it’s important to act as soon as possible. Common Misconceptions about Hearing Aids ‘They don’t help.’ While this may be true with the earliest models, hearing aid technology has advanced quickly - especially within the past few years. The earlier models were bulky, aesthetically unappealing, and didn’t improve people’s hearing. One of the most common complaints about them was loud feedback noises. These are the loud squeaking noises that hearing aids sometimes make when embracing another person. A simple fix to that would be to see a hearing instrument specialist who can fine-tune the hearing aids so that the feedback noises stop. Some have claimed that using a hearing aid can ruin their natural sense of hearing, by making them dependent on the devices. But once your hearing is gone, it does not come back. What hearing aids do is help to keep the hearing abilities that you still have, or slow down the hearing loss and early onset of dementia. Remember, they’re called hearing aids and not hearing restorers. Many people have found them very helpful for healthy brain function. Steps to Take towards Better Hearing Hearing is a very important sense. Hearing loss can lead to anxiety, depression, lower-income, and personal safety issues. Here are some things you can do to avoid or better manage these issues.
What should You know about before buying Hearing Aids? Visit an experienced hearing aid instrument specialist. They will help you find the right solution that will benefit your hearing needs.
Additional Accessories There are so many accessories that can be paired with your hearing aids to make watching TV, making phone calls or talking to others easier for you. Downloadable apps (decibel meters, captioning, etc.) can also be used to help. Available accessories will depend on the hearing aid manufacturer, model, and price. The more specific you are about your listening needs, the more effective your provider will be in advising the best choices for you. Hearing aids feature artificial intelligence (AI), so they can adapt to different environments and block out distracting background noises to make your listening experience easier. Contact us at Pure Sound Hearing if you, or a loved one, would be interested in a complimentary hearing aid trial. Get the sounds you need with the small rechargeable RIC.
Signia’s CROS Pure 312 AX features Signia’s Augmented Xperience. It provides amazing speech clarity in any situation. Key Features:
If you or a loved one would be interested in a free trial of Signia’s CROS Pure 312 AX hearing aid, or any of our other hearing aid options, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a complimentary hearing test and consultation with one of our providers. |
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