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. Schedule an appointment for an
Audiological Evaluation.
