Do I need two hearing aids?

This s a very common question.    If you have a hearing loss in both ears ear, it is highly recommended that you be fit with a hearing aid in both ears.  Research has shown that individuals who have been fit with two hearing aids are generally more satisfied than those who were fit with one instrument.  When given the choice, overwhelmingly, consumers choose two hearing aids.

Some of the advantages of hearing in both ears include:  better understanding of speech in both quiet and noisy situations, better overall sound and tonal quality, improved localization of sound and a wider range of hearing.  By wearing two hearing aids, it is easier to focus on the conversation and your ability to understand speech is improved.  Localizing the source of sound is vitally important.  For example, it allows you to identify the direction from which speech or noise (like a car or siren) is coming.

When listening to a stereo system, both speakers allow the smoothest, sharpest, most natural sound quality.  The same thing will be true with hearing aids.  With two hearing instruments, the range of hearing increases from 180 to 360 degrees.  This greater range of hearing provides a better sense of balance and sound quality, making listening more enjoyable and relaxing.  As an added advantage, many hearing aid wearers report not hearing the “ringing” tinnitus that plagues them.  If you have a hearing aid in only one ear there will still be ringing in the unaided ear. 

Using two hearing aids will allow you to enjoy better hearing in small and large group settings, with improved localization and less strain, for a more pleasant listening experience.  

Life sounds great!  Enjoy every moment!

Jane Kukula, Au.D.
Paula Webster, M.A.

Advanced Audiology Concepts

8897 Mentor Ave
Mentor, Ohio 44060
440-205-8848

Fax: 440-205-9818

http://www.aacHEAR.org

Resistance to seeking hearing help

We often see people with hearing loss resist seeking help.  There are many reasons why they it put off. 

It easy to deny there is a problem and blame others for the difficulty.  Hearing loss causes voices to sound soft and muffled.  It does not appear as if it is their hearing, just that others do not speak up or talk clearly.  When they watch TV, the volume does not sound loud to them, leading them to believe others like it very soft.

Hearing loss is often gradual.  It decreases slowly over time.  So slowly, that people can be unaware that hearing is changing.  Some sounds, such as birds or voices from another room and more, fade away without being missed. 

Not knowing or understanding about hearing and hearing aids, or where to go and who to see, can create fear.  To complicate it, many have heard stories of people who were unsuccessful with hearing aids.  This can create concern about making a good financial investment.  We recommend an audiologist.  Audiologists have many years of study in the area of the ears, hearing and hearing aids.  If hearing aids are recommended, they can help find cost effective ones.  

Help them to focus on what they are missing and how hearing loss is changing thier life in negative ways.  Often those with untreated hearing loss isolate themselves and withdraw from social situations including family gatherings.  They miss out on grandchildren and their stories.  It can impact relationships and her quality of life.  Stop in your local audiologist's office pick up some literature.  Knowledge about what to expect can help dispel some of the fear and anxiety.  Encourage them just as you would with any health issue. 

The longer they put it off, the more likely they will have a reduced ability to understand words.   Call and schedule a hearing evaluation.  

Life sounds great!  Enjoy every moment!

Jane Kukula, Au.D.
Paula Webster, M.A.

Advanced Audiology Concepts

8897 Mentor Ave
Mentor, Ohio 44060
440-205-8848

Fax: 440-205-9818

http://www.aacHEAR.org

Picture obtained from:

http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://images.agoramedia.com/everydayhealth/gcms/photogallery_social_withdrawal_full.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.everydayhealth.com/depression-pictures/depression-symptoms-to-watch-for.aspx&h=400&w=300&sz=34&tbnid=kyOam7F9IAKZxM:&tbnh=103&tbnw=77&prev=/search%3Fq%3Dphoto%2Bof%2Bsocial%2Bwithdrawal%26tbm%3Disch%26tbo%3Du&zoom=1&q=photo+of+social+withdrawal&usg=__qNsHXtuDGJI5_1eQSsMWZnDP6BE=&docid=mXgLie8nGQZl0M&sa=X&ei=caTRUfibAbDLywGa1oCYBA&ved=0CEEQ9QEwBQ&dur=266

Hearing loss and denial

We often see people with hearing loss resist seeking help.  There are many reasons why they resist assistance.  Denial is one way of resisting.  Understanding where it comes from can help you work with her.

It can be easy to deny there is a problem and blame others for the difficulty.  Hearing loss makes voices sound soft and mumbled.   It is appears that the speaker is not speaking up or clearly.  When she watches TV, the volume does not sound loud to her and leading her to think others like volume very soft.

She may not realize all that she misses.  Hearing loss is often gradual.  It decreases slowly over time.  So slowly, people can be unaware that hearing is changing.  Some sounds such as bird songs, fade away without being noticed and aren’t missed when they fade away altogether.

Not knowing or understanding about hearing and hearing aids or where to go and who to see, can create fear.  To complicate it, many have heard stories of people who were unsuccessful with hearing aids.  This can create concern about the financial investment.  Today’s hearing aids are better than ever. We can help her find cost effective hearing aids if they are indicated.

Help her to focus on what she is missing and how hearing loss is changing her life in a negative ways.   Those with untreated hearing loss will isolate themselves and withdraw from social situations.  Share with her how you feel when she is not able to participate in family activities.  Stop in and pick up some information about hearing aids to share with her.  Help her to understand hearing aid technology has improved over the last few years and can be very helpful and inconspicuous. 

Now is a great time to get started.  Schedule her for a hearing evaluation.  An audiologist can help her understand what is happening with her hearing and alleviate some of her fears.  Call one now.

Life sounds great!  Enjoy every moment!

Jane Kukula, Au.D.
Paula Webster, M.A.

Advanced Audiology Concepts

8897 Mentor Ave
Mentor, Ohio 44060
440-205-8848

Fax: 440-205-9818

http://www.aacHEAR.org

Picture obtained at:

http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.butyoudontlooksick.com/wpress/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/denial.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.butyoudontlooksick.com/articles/personal-essays/overcoming-cleopatra-becoming-more-than-the-queen-of-denial/&h=239&w=317&sz=22&tbnid=qte8Y56s9ZV8jM:&tbnh=84&tbnw=111&zoom=1&usg=__ByQaK7dAaWL_vU-kw3R6gm_qvI0=&docid=wfZd0mAiX_Si8M&sa=X&ei=2pPIUcKBF4S7ywGlzoC4BQ&ved=0CDcQ9QEwAg&dur=78

What should I know about purchasing hearing aids?

Buying hearing aids can be a very daunting process.  The nature and degree of your hearing loss will be a factor in determining the style of instrumentation that will be appropriate for you.  The audiologist will guide you through this process.  Information regarding your life style, work setting, recreational activities and expectations from amplification will be helpful in making a decision regarding the hearing aids. 

Several different styles are available.  The number of microphones, programs and features should be thoroughly discussed, as well as the availability of a telecoil.  Not all features and styles are appropriate for every person or every type of hearing loss. 

Cost of the instruments varies depending upon the level of technology and features of the aids.  If the price of the hearing aids would cause you not to buy them, be sure to ask if a more basic model would also be appropriate for you needs.  Inquire about the availability of financial assistance.  Although most insurance companies will cover the cost of the hearing assessment, they generally do not cover the cost of hearing aids.

The hearing aids should be fit with a trial period .  You should expect to be seen for at least two or three hearing aids checks, to discuss your progress.  Questions you have regarding the hearing aids, how they function, how well you are hearing in quiet and in noise, on the phone and in challenging listening situations will be addressed.  If at the end of the trial period, you are not satisfied with the hearing aids, you have the right to return them or exchange them and try something different. Generally, there is a non-refundable fee when the instruments are returned.

Purchasing hearing aids should be a positive experience with a successful outcome.  Work together with your audiologist for the best results.  

Life sounds great!  Enjoy every moment!

Jane Kukula, Au.D.
Paula Webster, M.A.

Advanced Audiology Concepts

8897 Mentor Ave
Mentor, Ohio 44060
440-205-8848

Fax: 440-205-9818

http://www.aacHEAR.org

Picture obtained at: 

http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.emoryhealthcare.org/ear-nose-throat/img/hearing-aids.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.emoryhealthcare.org/ear-nose-throat/audiology/hearing-aids.html&h=303&w=450&sz=37&tbnid=orbtfIO4U4ee9M:&tbnh=82&tbnw=122&prev=/search%3Fq%3Dimages%2Bhearing%2Baid%26tbm%3Disch%26tbo%3Du&zoom=1&q=images+hearing+aid&usg=__jp37HStlSg6_OnZqGMMJ9bDj4GY=&docid=CCei71mLMeXDpM&sa=X&ei=1nvRUYKpDKjLyQGknYDYBA&ved=0CEIQ9QEwAg&dur=1832

Why do people resist using hearing aids?

There are many reasons why people resist seeking hearing help.  A study by the Better Hearing Institute revealed some of them. 

First, hearing loss usually increases slowly over time.  Often, people don’t notice the slow decrease.  They are unaware of it.  To make it more difficult to realize it is their ears, hearing loss sounds like people mumbling.  This makes it is easy to believe others speak softly or mumble. 

Second, embarrassment and discomfort with the thought of hearing aids can lead to denial and resistance.  Deep down they know they have hearing loss but just are not ready for hearing aids.  This is no longer a good reason to not seek help.  Today’s hearing aids look great and work great! 

Third, The Better Hearing Institute found that misdirected medical advice results in someone who is ready for help from seeking help.  There was a time when hearing aids did little to assist severe hearing loss.  Some of this old thinking is still around today.  With the new hearing aid technologies there is help for everyone. 

Lastly, there is a lack of awareness of the importance of hearing.  Communication affects every aspect of life.  It impacts relationships, shopping, social gatherings and religious services.  We also know that those with hearing loss who use hearing aids are healthier!

Encourage your  loved ones to seek hearing help.  See an audiologist for a hearing evaluation.  You will be surprised by the look and quality of today's digital hearing aids.  

Life sounds great!  Enjoy every moment!

Jane Kukula, Au.D.
Paula Webster, M.A.

Advanced Audiology Concepts

8897 Mentor Ave
Mentor, Ohio 44060
440-205-8848

Fax: 440-205-9818

http://www.aacHEAR.org

Picture obtained from: http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrb1gaO6mdojPdeYXnow9wi9mJpnp6_CQ3cKdyZr1j5PKOejuNeHhLkCgY7KkSTBln0azKZ46o2R4gDiH8htwnf7qvvVc0VxkKXU2FRJFgeCc3ev81LVs9RVpvdyYi9TgY81Lm6ZF3IaXJ/s200/Resisting.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.blog-bizedge.biz/2009_04_01_archive.html&h=196&w=179&sz=8&tbnid=56Svq3SbGX0k6M:&tbnh=100&tbnw=91&prev=/search%3Fq%3Dimages%2Bof%2Bpeople%2Bresisting%26tbm%3Disch%26tbo%3Du&zoom=1&q=images+of+people+resisting&usg=__2ejyuQ-jvciqGIGv0sXkLud9x9I=&docid=qqbS8tyba3zOsM&sa=X&ei=MZavUYDlEeTgyQHY-oDgCA&ved=0CDUQ9QEwAg&dur=859

What type of noise is considered loud enough to require ear protection?

This is a great question to consider as summer begins and we are spending more time enjoying the great outdoors.  Recreational activities such as video arcades, fireworks, discos, music concerts, shooting guns, sporting events, motorcycles and even movie theaters, can be excessively loud.  Actually, even using appliances around your home (vacuum cleaner, hair dryer, dish washer, leaf blowers, lawn mowers and power saws), particularly if they are running at the same time, can be dangerous to your hearing. 

It is important to wear hearing protection when participating in these recreational or occupational activities.  If you work in an at-risk occupation, check with your employer to make sure your hearing is protected in accordance with OSHA regulations.  Limit the amount of time you are exposed to loud noise.

Custom hearing protection is available.  Ask your audiologist about more information regarding the appropriate ear plugs for your particular interests and activities.  We live in a very noisy world.  Through education and positive action, the incidence of noise induced hearing loss can be reduced. Have a Safe Fourth of July!  

Life sounds great!  Enjoy every moment!

Jane Kukula, Au.D.
Paula Webster, M.A.

Advanced Audiology Concepts

8897 Mentor Ave
Mentor, Ohio 44060
440-205-8848

Fax: 440-205-9818

http://www.aacHEAR.org

Picture obtained from: http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.conciergepreferred.com/media/k2/items/cache/b6120c313ac48a77675d5f5655b43f41_XL.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.conciergepreferred.com/navy-pier-fireworks/4679-fourth-of-july-fireworks-at-navy-pier-2012.html&h=744&w=900&sz=449&tbnid=dV9I52uoyTmeKM:&tbnh=109&tbnw=132&prev=/search%3Fq%3Dpictures%2Bof%2Bfireworks%26tbm%3Disch%26tbo%3Du&zoom=1&q=pictures+of+fireworks&usg=__Lx702xxgOFg5AKKrmlewtRNIZpc=&docid=Os5UJpkzWuqsMM&sa=X&ei=hWzIUZrxEO-kyAGBsoHwCA&ved=0CFsQ9QEwDg&dur=483

Alone with hearing loss

Hearing loss, especially when it is untreated can cause people to withdraw from social gatherings, feel alone, ignored and left out.  This can lead to feelings of paranoia and to social phobias.  These can have a negative impact on relationships, quality of life and the overall feeling of well being.

Even though hearing loss makes one feel alone and left out those with hearing loss are not alone.  Millions of people experience hearing problems.  There are over 36 million Americans with permanent hearing loss.  This number is rapidly increasing due to the number of baby boomers turning 65 and the prevalence of hearing loss later in life.  

Out of the millions of people with hearing loss, 20% of them seek treatment.  Left untreated hearing loss can result in reduced word understanding, further isolation, depression and social phobias.  There is no reason to delay seeking help.  Waiting could actually cause more problems. 

The important thing is there is help.  Start with a hearing evaluation.  This will determine if there is a medical problem or if you have permanent hearing loss.  If the loss is permanent and hearing aids are recommended, try them.  Hearing aids have a positive impact on life.  Hearing aids improve many things including communication and self confidence, and can reduce stress, paranoia and listening effort. 

Take the first step.  It could something as simple as a buildup of ear wax.  Call to schedule a hearing evaluation with an audiologist.   We can expect to live longer than our parents and grandparents.  With hearing aids you can live a full and active life.  

Life sounds great!  Enjoy every moment!

Jane Kukula, Au.D.
Paula Webster, M.A.

Advanced Audiology Concepts

8897 Mentor Ave
Mentor, Ohio 44060
440-205-8848

Fax: 440-205-9818

http://www.aacHEAR.org

Picture obtained from:
http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.thoughtful-self-improvement.com/image-files/beach-alone.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.thoughtful-self-improvement.com/Introverts-T2.html&h=1000&w=725&sz=50&tbnid=0b2779hHWNbrwM:&tbnh=93&tbnw=67&prev=/search%3Fq%3Dimages%2Bo%2Bf%2Bbeing%2Balone%26tbm%3Disch%26tbo%3Du&zoom=1&q=images+o+f+being+alone&usg=__PjBIXlaycI9p3HNTSsrDc_dog9s=&docid=al8dNGCALFo6sM&sa=X&ei=hpWvUbr3F6HXygH564DoCQ&ved=0CFUQ9QEwDA&dur=1544

Hearing, but not understanding is often a symptom of mild to moderate hearing loss.  Many people go through life simply “living with” hearing loss, never recognizing there are many solutions available.  The first step is a complete audiological (hearing) assessment.  This testing is performed by an audiologist and will identify the degree and nature of your understanding problems.  A complete evaluation includes inspection of the ear canals, testing of the middle and inner ear functioning, pure tone testing and an assessment of speech recognition abilities.  Cost of this testing is generally covered by Medicare and health insurance plans.

These results will be discussed fully with you and your family members.  Treatment may be as simple as removing wax from the ear canals.  If hearing aids, listening therapy, and/or use of assistive listening devices are recommended, the audiologist will guide you in the selection process.

Hearing aids are now quite small and practically invisible.  They provide many improved features for addressing the problem of hearing but not understanding.  Directional microphones, frequency specific amplification and automatic programs help to improve understanding in quiet and noisy environments.  Also, many models can be paired with wireless devices to improve understanding on the telephone, while watching television and while participating in very challenging listening situations. 

Assistive listening devices can make the activities of daily living more accessible.  Amplified telephones, vibrating alarm clocks, alerting doorbells and wireless TV amplifiers provide additional awareness of sound.  Listening therapies improve the ability to understand conversational speech in noisy environments.

Untreated hearing loss can impact your life in many ways.  Withdrawal, isolation and depression are often seen in those who have hearing loss.  Call an audiologist today and schedule a hearing evaluation.

Life sounds great!  Enjoy every moment!

Jane Kukula, Au.D.
Paula Webster, M.A.

Advanced Audiology Concepts

8897 Mentor Ave
Mentor, Ohio 44060
440-205-8848

Fax: 440-205-9818

http://www.aacHEAR.org

Picture obtained from: http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.families.com/wp-content/uploads/media/jigsawpuzzle2.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.families.com/blog/when-people-do-not-understand-mental-illness&h=235&w=310&sz=24&tbnid=J8tLNgA1_WuQoM:&tbnh=96&tbnw=127&prev=/search%3Fq%3Dimages%2Bof%2Bpeople%2Bnot%2Bunderstanding%26tbm%3Disch%26tbo%3Du&zoom=1&q=images+of+people+not+understanding&usg=__mAXrcEciQYADDRBLkII8AyPK40E=&docid=vq6tAz92_kjTkM&sa=X&ei=XJmvUfTXKMq5yAH8goCICg&ved=0CDUQ9QEwAg&dur=3061

Why do people who use hearing aids still have trouble hearing?

Without a doubt, hearing aids improve hearing, communication and quality of life.  While they can have a significant positive impact on life, they are unable to restore hearing to normal.  They do a fabulous job when someone has a mild to moderate loss of hearing.  For those with a more severe or profound hearing loss, they at times mishear, misunderstand or miss something all together.

Most people who wear hearing aids have permanent hearing loss.  Permanent hearing loss is called sensory or sensorineural hearing loss. This type of hearing loss results from damage to the hearing nerves called hair cells.  Hearing aids do not repair this damage.  Hearing aids amplify and manipulate sound, and send sound to the ears.  Sound then passes through the damaged haircells.  These damaged haircells act similar to a damaged loud speaker in that they distort sound.  The more damage there is to the haircells, the more distorted words become.

There are things you can do to help someone with hearing loss to hear better.  Get the person’s attention, and speak slowly and clearly.  Reduce background noise whenever possible.  These changes can make a big difference in how well someone understands. 

The person with hearing needs to have regular audiologic care.  An annual hearing evaluation can determine if the hearing aids settings are appropriate.  Today’s digital hearing aids are easily adjusted to maximize hearing.  Call to schedule a hearing evaluation.    Don’t wait. 

Life sounds great!  Enjoy every moment!

Jane Kukula, Au.D.
Paula Webster, M.A.

Advanced Audiology Concepts

8897 Mentor Ave
Mentor, Ohio 44060
440-205-8848

Fax: 440-205-9818

http://www.aacHEAR.org

Picture obtained from: http://www.google.com/imgresimgurl=http://srxa.files.wordpress.com/2011/12/hearingloss.jpg&imgrefurl
=http://srxawordonhealth.com/2011/12/19/&h=407&w=295&sz=136&tbnid=5RQ7CH_Qvc8dAM:&
tbnh=90&tbnw=65&zoom=1&usg=__ZabDfHyYkYkDnJ0rAys7qwaUECg=&docid=XSXIa_uBHxZ
w2M&sa=X&ei=C7CkUeWuH6WYyAHH_4H4Dg&ved=0CEoQ9QEwAw&dur=5826

How to choose the right hearing aid

You play the most significant role in assuring satisfaction with hearing aids.  In order to be happy with your hearing aids, your needs, desires and expectations must be met.  You and your audiologist can address your communication issues and develop strategies for improving them.  Here are some suggestions for improving your chances of being fit with the right hearing aids.

·         Identify your own personal needs

·         Make a list of situations where your hearing loss has been a problem

·         Describe difficult situations:  i.e., the telephone, TV, communicating with family, movies, meetings, church, small groups, listening to young children, large conferences

Other factors to consider include:

·         The degree of your hearing loss

·         Size and condition of your ears

·         Your ability to manipulate the instruments and batteries

·         Your individual lifestyle

A positive attitude with realistic expectations about your hearing aids will improve your chances for a successful hearing aid fitting! Today’s digital technology allows for smaller instruments, improved noise and feedback management and automatic features.  These instruments are programmed and fine tuned to meet your individual needs by the audiologist.

Be patient, ask questions and work closely with the audiologist who is fitting your hearing aids.  Before you know it a whole new world will open up for you! 

Life sounds great!  Enjoy every moment!

Jane Kukula, Au.D.
Paula Webster, M.A.

Advanced Audiology Concepts

8897 Mentor Ave
Mentor, Ohio 44060
440-205-8848

Fax: 440-205-9818

http://www.aacHEAR.org

Picture Obtained from:

http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.digitalhearing.com.au/upload/HearingLoss.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.digitalhearing.com.au/hearingloss.html&h=298&w=232&sz=18&tbnid=0CCq72ZXYwB-mM:&tbnh=91&tbnw=71&zoom=1&usg=__OhNnJ6VQ2lOaOQk6YLlmcC_6d9I=&docid=olN8CxQipm9tFM&sa=X&ei=S9ikUZuRHeaDywGelICoBA&ved=0CDkQ9QEwAg&dur=2578

Hearing Loss and Aging

Hearing loss often occurs later in life.  One out of three people over age 60 have hearing loss, and one out of two people over age 85 are affected.  Hearing loss related to age is called presbycusis.  This is a permanent hearing loss.  Medications and surgery cannot restore this kind of hearing problem.  Presbycusis results from:

Changes to the structures of the inner ear

Reduced blood flow to the inner ear

The deterioration of hearing nerves and  

Changes in how the brain processes speech

Presbycusis usually is a gradual decrease in hearing for high-pitches.  These changes are subtle, slowly muffling words.  This causes difficulty hearing female voices, children’s voices, and when in noisy places.  Presbycusis is increased by other factors such as diabetes, poor circulation, kidney disease, noise exposure, and certain medications. 

Age-related hearing loss is treated with hearing aids. Modern hearing aids are digital microcomputers that automatically adjust thousands of times per second, making speech comfortable and more natural.  The side effects of hearing loss, isolation, withdrawal, anger, frustration, and communication breakdowns can be helped with hearing aids.  Those who do not seek hearing help experience a decrease in overall quality of life. Untreated hearing loss can lead to further decrease in word understanding, sadness, depression, anxiety, paranoia, reduced social activity and poor relationships.

May is designated Better Hearing Month to raise awareness of hearing loss and its effects on quality of life.  If you or someone you know is experiencing difficulty hearing, feel people mumble,  have ringing in the ears or other ear symptoms, now is a great time to call an audiologist and schedule a hearing evaluation.   Don’t wait.  

Life sounds great!  Enjoy every moment!

Jane Kukula, Au.D.
Paula Webster, M.A.

Advanced Audiology Concepts

8897 Mentor Ave
Mentor, Ohio 44060
440-205-8848

Fax: 440-205-9818

http://www.aacHEAR.org

hearing aids mentor ohio