Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Saturday, December 13, 2008
What should you do with a hearing aid brush?
So, you have a hearing aid brush sitting in your kit that came with your hearing aid.
Do you know what to do with it?
Many people are not sure and just ignore that little brush. But that brush might be just the thing to keep a hearing aid working well and keep it from going back to the manufacturer.
Follow these simple steps to keep your hearing aid clean and working in top condition.
For In-the-ear styles
1. Hold your hearing aid so that the surface you are cleaning faces down.
2. Brush firmly but gently over all the switches and holes moving debris out and away from the hearing aid.
3. All the holes on the hearing aid need to be brushed. This includes the microphone holes (which are usually very small and close to the battery door) and the canal opening (which is where the speaker is housed) and the vent holes.
For Behind-the-ear styles
1. Hold your hearing aid so that the surface you are cleaning faces down.
2. Brush firmly but gently over all the switches and holes moving debris out and away from the hearing aid.
3. All the holes on the hearing aid need to be brushed. The microphones are sometimes covered by hoods, screens or under the earhook. When brushing the microphones be careful not to remove the hoods or screens. If your hood or screen comes off take it to the audiologist to have it replaced.
4. Remember to clean your earmold too. the openings at the end of the earmold allow the sound to come out. Keep these clear by brushing them out as well.
In some situations you'll need to use a pick to remove wax from the opening of a hearing aid or earmold. Picks are specially made for hearing aids and you should never use a needle or bobby pin to do this job.
If you do not have a brush or a pic ask your audiologist for one. Always keep this brush separate from other brushes. Use the brush only on your hearing aids and earmolds and never for cleaning other things.
Remember to work with clean hands. Dirty hands lead to dirty hearing aids which can lead to ear infections!
This is my favorite type of hearing aid brush. At one end is a brush and magnet and at the other end is a wax pick.
How to hold the hearing aid when cleaning.
That small black hole on the left is the microphone; beside it is the battery door and to the far right is the volume control. Brush over all of these components but focus on the microphone. Your hearing aid might have two or more microphones so make sure you brush all of them.
This blog posted by Suzanne Yoder, Au.D. Doctor of Audiology and owner of HearWell Center. Please visit our website for more information http://www.hearwellcenter.com/
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Thankful for Hearing Well
Here at HearWell Center, we are thankful for many things but mostly we are thankful for being able to help others hear and better enjoy this holiday season. The holiday craze will soon be upon us. Those with hearing loss may find themselves struggling to hear or completely isolating themselves at family functions. If you or a loved one are experiencing hearing difficulties during the holidays there in no need to be left out of the fun again this year. Need to schedule a appointment, but reluctant? Consultations are free! We cater to the hesitant patient. Successful treatment takes time and patience and we believe in providing both. Need to schedule an appointment and aren't sure what to do? We will walk you through it. Please call 412 271-3002 or visit our website to learn more about HearWell Center and the services we offer.
This blog posted by Suzanne Yoder, Au.D. Doctor of Audiology and owner of HearWell Center. Please visit our website for more information http://www.hearwellcenter.com/
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Free Report on Better Hearing for Life
Do you ever have a few questions about hearing issues? Like "how much does a hearing aid cost?" or "where should I go for a hearing evaluation?" or "what type of features should I look for in a hearing aid?"
At HearWell Center we strongly believe that the educated consumer is the most satisfied consumer and taking the time to research your options and the asking the tough questions is the biggest hurdle to jump in the journey towards better hearing. Once you jump that hurdle the rest of the journey is a breeze if you have a good navigator [aka audiologist].
We provide FREE REPORTS to those interested in Hearing Aids, Hearing Protection or Hearing Loss issues.
Just email us at info@hearwellcenter.com and send your full name, address [street, city, zip] and tell use which report you would like to receive. The report is FREE, no strings attached. You can even request an electronic copy. Just let us know. We will be happy to put the information in your hands so that you can better educate yourself and start the journey towards better hearing for life!
This blog posted by Suzanne Yoder, Au.D. Doctor of Audiology and owner of HearWell Center. Please visit our website for more information http://www.hearwellcenter.com/
At HearWell Center we strongly believe that the educated consumer is the most satisfied consumer and taking the time to research your options and the asking the tough questions is the biggest hurdle to jump in the journey towards better hearing. Once you jump that hurdle the rest of the journey is a breeze if you have a good navigator [aka audiologist].
We provide FREE REPORTS to those interested in Hearing Aids, Hearing Protection or Hearing Loss issues.
Just email us at info@hearwellcenter.com and send your full name, address [street, city, zip] and tell use which report you would like to receive. The report is FREE, no strings attached. You can even request an electronic copy. Just let us know. We will be happy to put the information in your hands so that you can better educate yourself and start the journey towards better hearing for life!
This blog posted by Suzanne Yoder, Au.D. Doctor of Audiology and owner of HearWell Center. Please visit our website for more information http://www.hearwellcenter.com/
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
At risk for noise induced hearing loss? Take the test!
10 questions to determine your risk of hearing loss.
Do you listen to a personal music player with earbuds that sit in your ear?
Does your workplace tell you to wear hearing protection?
Do you use firearms frequently?
Do you attend participate in live NASCAR events?
Do you attend Live Concerts?
Do you ride motorboats, motorcycles or other motorized vehicle not enclosed?
Do you drive a car with a modified exhaust?
Do you use lawn equipment or power tools for 4 hours/day at least 5 days/week?
Do you ever have any ringing in your ears that lasts longer than 2 days?
Do you smoke?
If you answered yes to 3 or more you could be at risk for noise induced hearing loss. If you think your hearing may not be what it used to be a basic hearing screening will provide a simple pass or fail for determining if a more comprehensive exam is warrented. A failed hearing screening means it's time to see an Audiologist for a comprehensive exam to determine the degree and type of hearing loss. Also, if you ever feel that your hearing has changed significantly in a short amout of time it is important to valuated right away.
Most people wait an average of seven years to seek testing for hearing loss AFTER they notice difficulty hearing. Preventing hearing loss is a simple way to save years of aggrivation after the damage has been done. Simple disposable foam plugs are effective and cheap for everday uses. Personalized custom earmolds are also available for when comfort and sound quality are concerns.
Here are some great links:
Links for Custom Earplugs
Westone www.westone.com
Microsonic www.earmolds.com
Links for Hearing Loss Prevention
National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health (NIOSH) http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/noise/
Better Hearing Institute http://www.betterhearing.org/hearing_loss_prevention/
Public Video on Hearing Loss Prevention by Better Hearing Institute
link at http://www.betterhearing.org/hearing_loss_prevention/
Do you listen to a personal music player with earbuds that sit in your ear?
Does your workplace tell you to wear hearing protection?
Do you use firearms frequently?
Do you attend participate in live NASCAR events?
Do you attend Live Concerts?
Do you ride motorboats, motorcycles or other motorized vehicle not enclosed?
Do you drive a car with a modified exhaust?
Do you use lawn equipment or power tools for 4 hours/day at least 5 days/week?
Do you ever have any ringing in your ears that lasts longer than 2 days?
Do you smoke?
If you answered yes to 3 or more you could be at risk for noise induced hearing loss. If you think your hearing may not be what it used to be a basic hearing screening will provide a simple pass or fail for determining if a more comprehensive exam is warrented. A failed hearing screening means it's time to see an Audiologist for a comprehensive exam to determine the degree and type of hearing loss. Also, if you ever feel that your hearing has changed significantly in a short amout of time it is important to valuated right away.
Most people wait an average of seven years to seek testing for hearing loss AFTER they notice difficulty hearing. Preventing hearing loss is a simple way to save years of aggrivation after the damage has been done. Simple disposable foam plugs are effective and cheap for everday uses. Personalized custom earmolds are also available for when comfort and sound quality are concerns.
Here are some great links:
Links for Custom Earplugs
Westone www.westone.com
Microsonic www.earmolds.com
Links for Hearing Loss Prevention
National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health (NIOSH) http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/noise/
Better Hearing Institute http://www.betterhearing.org/hearing_loss_prevention/
Public Video on Hearing Loss Prevention by Better Hearing Institute
link at http://www.betterhearing.org/hearing_loss_prevention/
This blog posted by Suzanne Yoder, Au.D. Doctor of Audiology and owner of HearWell Center. Please visit our website for more information http://www.hearwellcenter.com/
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Of Hearing Loss & Legislation
There are two especially important pieces of pending legislation in congress now that are particularly relevant to both Audiology as a profession and all Americans with hearing loss. The proposed bills recognize the effect of hearing loss on our aging population and summarized their findings in the Medicare Hearing Health Care Enhancement Act of 2007. The following is pulled directly from the bill section 2.
If these bills pass it will be a significant step forward in making it easier and more affordable than ever before to get quality hearing care to millions of Americans. Please consider taking action today. Just follow these links:
As exciting as these bills are they still need to be passed to make a difference. If you or someone close to you is affected by hearing loss please take a moment to make a difference.
“Congress finds the following:
(1) Approximately 30,000,000 Americans experience some degree of hearing loss and by 2030 that number is expected to increase to 78,000,000 Americans.
(2) Hearing impairment is one of the most common conditions affecting older adults, with approximately 33 percent of Americans aged 60 years and over, and 40 to 50 percent of those aged 75 years and older, experiencing hearing loss.
(3) Hearing loss is a major barrier to participating in society, both economically and socially.
(4) Hearing loss among senior citizens, if left untreated, can result in isolation and depression.
(5) The Department of Veterans Affairs allows veterans to directly access audiologists and has reported that this policy, adopted in 1992, provides high-quality, efficient, and cost-effective hearing care.
(6) The Office of Personnel Management allows Federal employees and Members of Congress to directly access audiologists through the Federal Employees Health benefits Program.
(7) Audiologists are licensed in each State and the District of Columbia and the scope of services furnished by audiologists is determined by each such jurisdiction involved.
(8) Consistency in Federal policy with respect to hearing health care services should be encouraged to the greatest extent possible.”
H.R.
1665 IH
Sec. 2 Findings
These findings have led to the proposal of two bills. The first is the “Hearing Aid Assistance Tax Credit Act” which would provide a tax credit for the out of pocket expense of hearing aids of up to $500 per qualifying hearing aid or $1000 tax credit for two hearing aids. This benefit would be available to individuals of age 55 and over and could be claimed every five years. As an Audiologist I am thrilled to see the government begin to recognize the importance of hearing aids as a vital part of senior healthcare. The second bill is the aforementioned Medicare Hearing Health Care Enhancement Act of 2007. This bill recognizes the cost efficiency gained when patients are able to go directly to an Audiologist without the need to first get a referral from another doctor.
If these bills pass it will be a significant step forward in making it easier and more affordable than ever before to get quality hearing care to millions of Americans. Please consider taking action today. Just follow these links:
- You can review these bills through their links from this page or go to http://thomas.loc.gov/home/c110query.html and search by the bill numbers S. 1410 and H.R. 1665.
- To generate an automatic letter to print and send your congressman about these and other issues please see the American Academy of Audiology website and their “Take Action” page at http://capwiz.com/audiology/home/.
- Also, you can visit the Better Hearing Institute’s “Hearing Aid Tax Credit” webpage at http://www.hearingaidtaxcredit.org/
As exciting as these bills are they still need to be passed to make a difference. If you or someone close to you is affected by hearing loss please take a moment to make a difference.
This blog posted by Suzanne Yoder, Au.D. Doctor of Audiology and owner of HearWell Center. Please visit our website for more information http://www.hearwellcenter.com/
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Using Hearing Aids with iPods - and Other New Advances
Could my dreams be coming true? All my life I have wondered why haven't they made a hearing aid that send transmissions so I can hear the radio or television? Well folks... now they have. It is incredible the changes in technology that have been implemented into hearing devices both for the hard of hearing and for the normal hearing person. Have you seen some of the neat technology that is ear level? All the fancy bluetooth headsets and wireless earphones for the iPod?
Now that technology is available in hearing instruments for the hard of hearing. More and more manufacturers are taking a closer look at helping the hard of hearing consumer connect with technology that normal hearing people take for granted. I love being able to tell my patients that they can enjoy their iPod, their TV, their cell phone the way they want to.
Check these two manufacturers for more information on hearing aids that can connect you to a whole new world of sounds. [be sure to watch the videos]
Phonak Hearing Systems
Oticon Inc
This blog posted by Suzanne Yoder, Au.D. Doctor of Audiology and owner of HearWell Center. Please visit our website for more information http://www.hearwellcenter.com/
Monday, July 28, 2008
How Do Hearing Aid Batteries Work? Battery Issues for Hearing Aid Users
Hearing aid batteries are more complicated than you might suspect. Even a long-time hearing aid user may learn a few new things from this article.
Batteries for hearing aids are typically zinc air cells. They are small, one-time-use, disposable cells that require oxygen to work. The only exception to this is the rechargeable batteries.
Hearing aid batteries come in many sizes and can be distinguished by the standardized color coding system and the numbers. In order of size from largest to smallest the following are the common batteries seen in hearing aids today; size 675 is blue, size 13 is orange, size 312 is brown and size 10 is yellow. The color system is seen in the color of the packaging as well as the color of the stick tab on each cell.
As stated the batteries are zinc air and this distinguishes them from any other battery commonly used in our households. Zinc air batteries are activated by the oxygen in the air. Without oxygen the batteries cannot function.
When the sticker (or tab) is removed from the back of a cell the battery is slowly powered up as oxygen is gathered around and absorbed into the small holes on the battery. If you look closely you can see these holes. The holes are small to prevent the battery from leaking "battery juices" but large enough to allow a molecule of oxygen to permeate. There is also a filter behind that hole to prevent leakage and that filter will allow oxygen to permeate, although it does slow the absorption.
Because the process of oxygen absorption is not immediate, battery companies recommend that you wait one full minute before inserting the battery into the hearing aid and closing the battery door. If you do not wait that full minute, the battery may not have sufficient oxygen to power up and it can be starved for oxygen inside the hearing aid's casing. This instruction can sometimes be seen on the battery packaging.
This tip is little known or understood among hearing aid users and healthcare professionals. The fact that battery cells can starve for oxygen was not as likely in older model hearing aids so the issue was not often brought up. But newer hearing aids on the market are more air tight in an attempt to help reduce moisture related problems (sweat, humidity, water, rain, etc) and to make the hearing aids more water resistant.
I gathered much of this information from a discussion with my battery supplier. Being an audiologist I have the fortunate opportunity to learn from all the industries that deal with hearing aids and hearing aid related products. I am happy to pass this information along to the general public and my patients.
This blog posted by Suzanne Yoder, Au.D. Doctor of Audiology and owner of HearWell Center. Please visit our website for more information http://www.hearwellcenter.com/
Batteries for hearing aids are typically zinc air cells. They are small, one-time-use, disposable cells that require oxygen to work. The only exception to this is the rechargeable batteries.
Hearing aid batteries come in many sizes and can be distinguished by the standardized color coding system and the numbers. In order of size from largest to smallest the following are the common batteries seen in hearing aids today; size 675 is blue, size 13 is orange, size 312 is brown and size 10 is yellow. The color system is seen in the color of the packaging as well as the color of the stick tab on each cell.
As stated the batteries are zinc air and this distinguishes them from any other battery commonly used in our households. Zinc air batteries are activated by the oxygen in the air. Without oxygen the batteries cannot function.
When the sticker (or tab) is removed from the back of a cell the battery is slowly powered up as oxygen is gathered around and absorbed into the small holes on the battery. If you look closely you can see these holes. The holes are small to prevent the battery from leaking "battery juices" but large enough to allow a molecule of oxygen to permeate. There is also a filter behind that hole to prevent leakage and that filter will allow oxygen to permeate, although it does slow the absorption.
Because the process of oxygen absorption is not immediate, battery companies recommend that you wait one full minute before inserting the battery into the hearing aid and closing the battery door. If you do not wait that full minute, the battery may not have sufficient oxygen to power up and it can be starved for oxygen inside the hearing aid's casing. This instruction can sometimes be seen on the battery packaging.
This tip is little known or understood among hearing aid users and healthcare professionals. The fact that battery cells can starve for oxygen was not as likely in older model hearing aids so the issue was not often brought up. But newer hearing aids on the market are more air tight in an attempt to help reduce moisture related problems (sweat, humidity, water, rain, etc) and to make the hearing aids more water resistant.
I gathered much of this information from a discussion with my battery supplier. Being an audiologist I have the fortunate opportunity to learn from all the industries that deal with hearing aids and hearing aid related products. I am happy to pass this information along to the general public and my patients.
This blog posted by Suzanne Yoder, Au.D. Doctor of Audiology and owner of HearWell Center. Please visit our website for more information http://www.hearwellcenter.com/
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Is a hearing aid a mini computer for your ears?
Modern hearing aids are very advanced technological products. It is best to explain hearing aids as a type of specialized computer. Most of my patients have only a small idea of how complex a hearing aid really is. On occasion someone might say to me "why are hearing aids so expensive it's just a fancy amplifier." That is an outdated belief as hearing aids haven't been simply an amplifier for decades.
Modern hearing aids are built with capabilities that are so complex it can be a daunting task to explain to my patients how they work. But here are some of the basic parts. There are one or two highly sensitive microphones to receive all of the sounds coming at the user. When sound is collected by those microphones it is received by a tiny processor similar to one used in a desktop computer. The processor adjusts the sounds coming in to selectively fit the individual hearing loss of the user. Modern processors can tell the difference between quiet, background noise, speech, and music and thus correct only the sounds a user wants to hear. Finally an amplifier will then make the modified sounds sufficiently loud enough and send the modified sounds to the high fidelity speaker inside the ear. These parts are so tiny that a microscope must be used to view them. The newest hearing aids go another step further and can connect directly to televisions or portable devices like phones and music players so that the user can listen to them through the hearing aid.
In order to achieve all of the above the hearing aid must be connected to a computer to be programmed by a hearing professional who understands each individual’s hearing needs. Most hearing aids can be programmed to help with all types and severities of hearing loss just by changing the programming. This allows patients who have a change in hearing over time to continue to use the same hearing aids as only the settings have to be updated.
Modern hearing aids use a lot of power so batteries made for hearing aids have to carry a strong enough charge to operate these miniature workhorses all day for several days. This is why hearing aid batteries need to be replaced about every two weeks or more often for smaller batteries.
When you think about all that a hearing aid has to do it is not surprising that such a wonderful, miniature, smart little device is so expensive. Hearing aids today are making magnificent use of the best modern technology has to offer and help so many hard of hearing people hear better today than ever before. I am so glad that this technology is available for me and for my patients. It is an exciting time to be an audiologist and to help people hear better for life.
This blog posted by Suzanne Yoder, Au.D. Doctor of Audiology and owner of HearWell Center. Please visit our website for more information http://www.hearwellcenter.com/
Modern hearing aids are built with capabilities that are so complex it can be a daunting task to explain to my patients how they work. But here are some of the basic parts. There are one or two highly sensitive microphones to receive all of the sounds coming at the user. When sound is collected by those microphones it is received by a tiny processor similar to one used in a desktop computer. The processor adjusts the sounds coming in to selectively fit the individual hearing loss of the user. Modern processors can tell the difference between quiet, background noise, speech, and music and thus correct only the sounds a user wants to hear. Finally an amplifier will then make the modified sounds sufficiently loud enough and send the modified sounds to the high fidelity speaker inside the ear. These parts are so tiny that a microscope must be used to view them. The newest hearing aids go another step further and can connect directly to televisions or portable devices like phones and music players so that the user can listen to them through the hearing aid.
In order to achieve all of the above the hearing aid must be connected to a computer to be programmed by a hearing professional who understands each individual’s hearing needs. Most hearing aids can be programmed to help with all types and severities of hearing loss just by changing the programming. This allows patients who have a change in hearing over time to continue to use the same hearing aids as only the settings have to be updated.
Modern hearing aids use a lot of power so batteries made for hearing aids have to carry a strong enough charge to operate these miniature workhorses all day for several days. This is why hearing aid batteries need to be replaced about every two weeks or more often for smaller batteries.
When you think about all that a hearing aid has to do it is not surprising that such a wonderful, miniature, smart little device is so expensive. Hearing aids today are making magnificent use of the best modern technology has to offer and help so many hard of hearing people hear better today than ever before. I am so glad that this technology is available for me and for my patients. It is an exciting time to be an audiologist and to help people hear better for life.
This blog posted by Suzanne Yoder, Au.D. Doctor of Audiology and owner of HearWell Center. Please visit our website for more information http://www.hearwellcenter.com/
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Consumer Information on Hearing Care, Hearing Aids and Choosing an Audiologist
Mar 25, 2008 08:00 ET
National Network of Audiologists Launches Consumer Education Video Website
AuDNet, Inc.'s New User-Friendly Website Offers Consumers Information on Hearing Care, Best Hearing Aids, and Choosing an Audiologist in Neighborhoods Across the US
BURNSVILLE, MN (Marketwire - March 25, 2008) - AuDNet, Inc. -- America's Audiology Network, a national network of audiologists and Doctors of Audiology, announced today that it launched multiple videos on their consumer education website www.NowiHear.com. The purpose of the website is to teach consumers about quality hearing care including how to choose a competent professional and the best hearing aids. The website provides information on causes of hearing loss, complete audiology hearing tests, causes of deafness, ear doctors, the best hearing care and hearing loss treatment including hearing aids and hearing aid services.
Audiology care also includes testing for balance, dizziness, and tinnitus (noise in the ears) and the associated therapies, hearing conservation, and hearing protection among other things. The user-friendly site walks the viewer through many of the important things to consider when he, she, or a family member experiences hearing, understanding, or balance problems.
"Today over 31.5 million American's experience some degree of hearing loss and with our aging demographic more and more American's will experience hearing, understanding, balance, or dizziness problems. It is projected that over 78 million Americans will experience some degree of hearing loss by 2030. It is so important that consumers know not only where to find appropriate care, but also where to find the best hearing and balance care. The site (www.NowiHear.com) offers an easy, fun, and accurate educational tool for consumers," stated Kathy Foltner, Au.D. -- Doctor of Audiology and CEO of AuDNet.
About AuDNet, Inc.
AuDNet, Inc. is a national network of licensed audiologists and Doctors of Audiology who are "THE Hearing Experts." AuDNet Audiologists and Doctors of Audiology are an elite group of highly trained, educated, licensed, and experienced professionals who specialize in audiology care and rehabilitation including hearing aids. Although AuDNet audiologists can diagnose all ages, the growing aging demographic means millions more of Americans must understand who is best qualified to solve problems associated with hearing loss. To learn more about AuDNet visit www.aud-net.com or call 1-800-308-7290.
This news release posted by Suzanne Yoder, Au.D. Doctor of Audiology and owner of HearWell Center. Please visit our website for more information www.hearwellcenter.com.
National Network of Audiologists Launches Consumer Education Video Website
AuDNet, Inc.'s New User-Friendly Website Offers Consumers Information on Hearing Care, Best Hearing Aids, and Choosing an Audiologist in Neighborhoods Across the US
BURNSVILLE, MN (Marketwire - March 25, 2008) - AuDNet, Inc. -- America's Audiology Network, a national network of audiologists and Doctors of Audiology, announced today that it launched multiple videos on their consumer education website www.NowiHear.com. The purpose of the website is to teach consumers about quality hearing care including how to choose a competent professional and the best hearing aids. The website provides information on causes of hearing loss, complete audiology hearing tests, causes of deafness, ear doctors, the best hearing care and hearing loss treatment including hearing aids and hearing aid services.
Audiology care also includes testing for balance, dizziness, and tinnitus (noise in the ears) and the associated therapies, hearing conservation, and hearing protection among other things. The user-friendly site walks the viewer through many of the important things to consider when he, she, or a family member experiences hearing, understanding, or balance problems.
"Today over 31.5 million American's experience some degree of hearing loss and with our aging demographic more and more American's will experience hearing, understanding, balance, or dizziness problems. It is projected that over 78 million Americans will experience some degree of hearing loss by 2030. It is so important that consumers know not only where to find appropriate care, but also where to find the best hearing and balance care. The site (www.NowiHear.com) offers an easy, fun, and accurate educational tool for consumers," stated Kathy Foltner, Au.D. -- Doctor of Audiology and CEO of AuDNet.
About AuDNet, Inc.
AuDNet, Inc. is a national network of licensed audiologists and Doctors of Audiology who are "THE Hearing Experts." AuDNet Audiologists and Doctors of Audiology are an elite group of highly trained, educated, licensed, and experienced professionals who specialize in audiology care and rehabilitation including hearing aids. Although AuDNet audiologists can diagnose all ages, the growing aging demographic means millions more of Americans must understand who is best qualified to solve problems associated with hearing loss. To learn more about AuDNet visit www.aud-net.com or call 1-800-308-7290.
This news release posted by Suzanne Yoder, Au.D. Doctor of Audiology and owner of HearWell Center. Please visit our website for more information www.hearwellcenter.com.
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Announcing Health Fair
HearWell Center will be participating in a health fair event at Station Square in Pittsburgh, PA on June 27, 28 and 29th.
Many of our best products will be on display. We will also demonstrate video-otoscopy, a way to view the inside of your ear with a camera.
Please stop and see our booth. We look forward to sharing all the wonderful ways to hear better for life.
Suzanne Yoder, Au.D.
Doctor of Audiology & Owner of HearWell Center
Friday, April 25, 2008
Moisture and Your Hearing Aid
taken from Ear Technology Corporation website and
adapted for use at HearWell Center
1. Recognizing moisture problems
Some moisture problems are obvious, such as droplets visible in the tubing of BTE instruments. Most, however, are not so apparent because most problems are caused by moisture molecules, not visible droplets.
Even if you can’t see the moisture, you will likely notice its presence because your hearing aids will not sound as good. You may notice distortion, intermittent failures or faulty switches as the moisture soaks into the diaphragms of speakers and microphones, starts corroding metal contacts and sensitive electronics, and blocks air vents and tubing. It can even interfere with battery efficiency.
It is a good idea to suspect moisture when obvious causes such as weak batteries are eliminated.
2. How does the moisture get there?
To start with, the humidity level in a typical ear canal is high. Then, perspiration introduces even more moisture into the ear canal. Temperature changes cause condensation, as described below. Then of course there’s the accidental dunk in the shower, pool, or washing machine.
Why is water vapor attracted to your hearing aids? Simply put, warm air can hold more moisture than cold air can hold. It’s the same principle that causes your bathroom mirror to fog up during a hot shower. The hot shower introduces water vapor to the air, but the cool air can’t hold all the moisture, so it's looking for a place to land. That's when it "condenses" onto surfaces. It's landing everywhere, but it's just more noticeable on the mirror.
The same thing is happening to your hearing aids all day as you experience different levels of activity and different ambient temperatures. Again, condensation happens when warm air meets cool air, so it even happens when you enter an air-conditioned building on a warm or humid day.
Since a hearing aid has such tiny openings, once the moisture gets inside, it takes special measures to draw the moisture back out. That’s where Dry & Store comes in.
3. How to Get Rid of It
1. Open battery door at night.
2. Use an earmold blower on BTE tubing.
3. If moisture problem persist use the Dry & Store drying unit nightly available for purchase in our office.
The Dry & Store combines several technologies to effectively remove even microscopic molecules of moisture from your hearing aid:
-a controlled amount of heat;
-a large volume of warm, sanitized, circulated air; and
-a charged desiccant to absorb the moisture that is released
This information brought to you by Dr. Yoder of HearWell Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. To learn more about our office please visit www.hearwellcenter.com
adapted for use at HearWell Center
1. Recognizing moisture problems
Some moisture problems are obvious, such as droplets visible in the tubing of BTE instruments. Most, however, are not so apparent because most problems are caused by moisture molecules, not visible droplets.
Even if you can’t see the moisture, you will likely notice its presence because your hearing aids will not sound as good. You may notice distortion, intermittent failures or faulty switches as the moisture soaks into the diaphragms of speakers and microphones, starts corroding metal contacts and sensitive electronics, and blocks air vents and tubing. It can even interfere with battery efficiency.
It is a good idea to suspect moisture when obvious causes such as weak batteries are eliminated.
2. How does the moisture get there?
To start with, the humidity level in a typical ear canal is high. Then, perspiration introduces even more moisture into the ear canal. Temperature changes cause condensation, as described below. Then of course there’s the accidental dunk in the shower, pool, or washing machine.
Why is water vapor attracted to your hearing aids? Simply put, warm air can hold more moisture than cold air can hold. It’s the same principle that causes your bathroom mirror to fog up during a hot shower. The hot shower introduces water vapor to the air, but the cool air can’t hold all the moisture, so it's looking for a place to land. That's when it "condenses" onto surfaces. It's landing everywhere, but it's just more noticeable on the mirror.
The same thing is happening to your hearing aids all day as you experience different levels of activity and different ambient temperatures. Again, condensation happens when warm air meets cool air, so it even happens when you enter an air-conditioned building on a warm or humid day.
Since a hearing aid has such tiny openings, once the moisture gets inside, it takes special measures to draw the moisture back out. That’s where Dry & Store comes in.
3. How to Get Rid of It
1. Open battery door at night.
2. Use an earmold blower on BTE tubing.
3. If moisture problem persist use the Dry & Store drying unit nightly available for purchase in our office.
The Dry & Store combines several technologies to effectively remove even microscopic molecules of moisture from your hearing aid:
-a controlled amount of heat;
-a large volume of warm, sanitized, circulated air; and
-a charged desiccant to absorb the moisture that is released
This information brought to you by Dr. Yoder of HearWell Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. To learn more about our office please visit www.hearwellcenter.com
How to Talk to your Hard of Hearing Loved One
What is the first thing many people do when they find out they are talking to a person who is hard of hearing? Yell? Walk away? Address another person instead? Ignore them? Many people do not know what to do differently when talking to someone with hearing loss and so even the best intentions can seem cruel. Talking to someone who struggles to hear is not as simple as you might think or maybe it is more simple than you thought.
Here are some guidelines to follow to help your loved one with hearing loss understand you better.
•Ask for strategies that work best; speak louder, slow down, etc.
•Speak at a normal rate.
•Avoid chewing, eating, or covering your mouth while speaking.
•Keep a close distance between you and the listener (no more than 6 feet).
•Use Facial expression and gestures.
•Make sure your face is visible to the listener
•Move away from background noise.
•Avoid sudden changes in topic.
•Give the listener enough time to comprehend your message and respond.
•Do not talk from another room.
•Rephrase (don’t repeat)
•If you are giving specific information (e.g., time for a meeting) ask the hearing-impaired listener to repeat the information to verify correct reception.
•Do not let intensity of your voice drop at the end of your sentences.
•During a group presentation, provide a brief outline of the presentation with any new vocabulary. Make use of visual aids; Be careful not to talk while you are looking at the visual aids (e.g., blackboard) and away from the audience. Re-state any questions from the audience.
•Volunteer to use an assistive device the listener may have (such as an external microphone or personal FM system).
Adapted from works posted on Hearing Loss Association of America website.
This information is brought to you by Dr. Yoder of HearWell Center. For more information about HearWell Center please visit our website www.hearwellcenter.com
Here are some guidelines to follow to help your loved one with hearing loss understand you better.
•Ask for strategies that work best; speak louder, slow down, etc.
•Speak at a normal rate.
•Avoid chewing, eating, or covering your mouth while speaking.
•Keep a close distance between you and the listener (no more than 6 feet).
•Use Facial expression and gestures.
•Make sure your face is visible to the listener
•Move away from background noise.
•Avoid sudden changes in topic.
•Give the listener enough time to comprehend your message and respond.
•Do not talk from another room.
•Rephrase (don’t repeat)
•If you are giving specific information (e.g., time for a meeting) ask the hearing-impaired listener to repeat the information to verify correct reception.
•Do not let intensity of your voice drop at the end of your sentences.
•During a group presentation, provide a brief outline of the presentation with any new vocabulary. Make use of visual aids; Be careful not to talk while you are looking at the visual aids (e.g., blackboard) and away from the audience. Re-state any questions from the audience.
•Volunteer to use an assistive device the listener may have (such as an external microphone or personal FM system).
Adapted from works posted on Hearing Loss Association of America website.
This information is brought to you by Dr. Yoder of HearWell Center. For more information about HearWell Center please visit our website www.hearwellcenter.com
Communication Strategies for Listeners with Hearing Loss
Whether or not you already use hearing aids or assistive devices (or other methods) to help you hear, communication strategies can further enhance your listening experience. By following these guidelines you will improve your conversations by reducing stress, controling your enviroment,and helping others understand your needs. Follow the guidelines listed below whenever possible.
1. Avoiding Noisy or Poorly Lit areas (for example: choose a quiet restaurant over a sports bar for dinner).
2. Plan ahead when possible for difficult situations.
3. Explain to others how to speak to you. “I’m hard of hearing… please speak slower.” For example.
4. Do not become distracted… pay attention.
5. Use visual clues.
6. Ask for information in writing when needed or written key words.
7. Do not pretend to understand. Let the speaker know if you do or don’t understand what is being said.
8. Take breaks when needed.
9. Repeat important information back to the speaker to be sure you understood (e.g. time and place for meeting, phone number, etc…)
10. Be realistic.
This was adapted from works posted on Hearing Loss Association of America's website
This information is brought to you by Dr. Yoder of HearWell Center. For more information about HearWell Center please visit our website www.hearwellcenter.com
1. Avoiding Noisy or Poorly Lit areas (for example: choose a quiet restaurant over a sports bar for dinner).
2. Plan ahead when possible for difficult situations.
3. Explain to others how to speak to you. “I’m hard of hearing… please speak slower.” For example.
4. Do not become distracted… pay attention.
5. Use visual clues.
6. Ask for information in writing when needed or written key words.
7. Do not pretend to understand. Let the speaker know if you do or don’t understand what is being said.
8. Take breaks when needed.
9. Repeat important information back to the speaker to be sure you understood (e.g. time and place for meeting, phone number, etc…)
10. Be realistic.
This was adapted from works posted on Hearing Loss Association of America's website
This information is brought to you by Dr. Yoder of HearWell Center. For more information about HearWell Center please visit our website www.hearwellcenter.com
Thursday, April 24, 2008
What to Expect from Hearing Aids
Hearing aids capture the world of sound for those of us who struggle to hear the whole sound picture. Without hearing aids or other assistive device many hard of hearing people would experience isolation and resulting depression, relationship struggles and more. Hearing aids connect people to people and to the world around us. The benefits are many, but many people do not know what to expect from a hearing aid and this blog will give you some pointers.
Should I expect perfect hearing from a hearing aid? Answer: No. Hearing aids do not correct hearing, nor are they a cure for hearing loss. Hearing aids "aid your hearing" they allow you to benefit from the hearing that you have left.
Will I be able to hear at the dinner table? Answer: Yes. For most hearing aid users listening to a conversation with a few people at the dinner table in their own home is no problem. This is also a good place to practice good communication strategies. (see blog for Communication Strategies).
Will I be able to hear in background noise? Answer: Yes and No. You should not expect to hear without effort even with hearing aids in noisy listening situations; even people with normal hearing will have to work harder to hear in noise. This is a challenging listening situation where many people find hearing aids fall short. However, modern hearing aids have special features to make it easier to communicate in noisy places. Most people should experience some improvement with hearing aids over no hearing aids at all in background noise (assuming hearing aids have the noise features). In addition there are other products on the market that can be used with a hearing aid to improve your ability to hear in noise called Assistive Listening Devices (ALD).
Will loud noises hurt my ears when I wear hearing aids? Answer: No. When you first start to wear hearing aids everything will seem too loud because the sounds in your environment are being heard as if for the first time again. It takes time for the brain to adjust to hearing again. And some sounds may even seem like noise at first until you learn to recognize the sounds correctly. Hearing aids that are programmed corrected for your measured hearing loss as well as your perceived loudness threshold will control loud sounds from being too loud for you. Hearing aids employ compression. Compression does what you might guess from the name; it "compresses" sounds to keep sound levels from reaching your uncomfortable level. This is just one of many ways your hearing aid is acting like a mini computer and "thinking" for your ears.
Will my hearing aids be comfortable? Answer: Yes. It is reasonable to expect your hearing aids should be comfortable in your ears. If you have a hearing aid that is causing a sore spot it may need remade or it may need adjusted or perhaps you need some advice on the best way to put it in your ear.
Will I be able to adjust to hearing aids? Answer: Yes. It takes time to adjust to hearing aids, but it can be done. The brain has to be retrained and for some that can mean a month or so, for others it can mean several months or maybe a year of adjusting. The time it takes to adjust is call "acclimatization period" and it is different for everyone. There are ways to help. First, wear the prescribed hearing aid(s). If you were fit with two hearing aids, you need to wear both. Each ear sends information to the brain differently and the brain needs all the information to sort out the world of sounds around you. Secondly, wear your hearing aids all day. Just like getting used to glasses, dentures, jewelry or contact lenses, the more you wear it the more it seems like part of your body. Once you become used to wearing it, you will miss it when you don't' have it on. The same is true for hearing aids. Not only for the physical comfort but for auditory comfort. Follow the wear schedule that your audiologist recommends. Typically new users start at 8 hours/day and experienced users should be wearing their hearing aid all day (from breakfast to bedtime stories).
This information is brought to you by Dr. Yoder of HearWell Center. For more information about HearWell Center please visit our website www.hearwellcenter.com
Outside links that I find helpful to share with my patients
Helpful Hints by Dr. Mark Ross
Hearing Aids publication from the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders
Consumer Guide "Hearing Aids FAQ" published by the American Academy of Audiology
Should I expect perfect hearing from a hearing aid? Answer: No. Hearing aids do not correct hearing, nor are they a cure for hearing loss. Hearing aids "aid your hearing" they allow you to benefit from the hearing that you have left.
Will I be able to hear at the dinner table? Answer: Yes. For most hearing aid users listening to a conversation with a few people at the dinner table in their own home is no problem. This is also a good place to practice good communication strategies. (see blog for Communication Strategies).
Will I be able to hear in background noise? Answer: Yes and No. You should not expect to hear without effort even with hearing aids in noisy listening situations; even people with normal hearing will have to work harder to hear in noise. This is a challenging listening situation where many people find hearing aids fall short. However, modern hearing aids have special features to make it easier to communicate in noisy places. Most people should experience some improvement with hearing aids over no hearing aids at all in background noise (assuming hearing aids have the noise features). In addition there are other products on the market that can be used with a hearing aid to improve your ability to hear in noise called Assistive Listening Devices (ALD).
Will loud noises hurt my ears when I wear hearing aids? Answer: No. When you first start to wear hearing aids everything will seem too loud because the sounds in your environment are being heard as if for the first time again. It takes time for the brain to adjust to hearing again. And some sounds may even seem like noise at first until you learn to recognize the sounds correctly. Hearing aids that are programmed corrected for your measured hearing loss as well as your perceived loudness threshold will control loud sounds from being too loud for you. Hearing aids employ compression. Compression does what you might guess from the name; it "compresses" sounds to keep sound levels from reaching your uncomfortable level. This is just one of many ways your hearing aid is acting like a mini computer and "thinking" for your ears.
Will my hearing aids be comfortable? Answer: Yes. It is reasonable to expect your hearing aids should be comfortable in your ears. If you have a hearing aid that is causing a sore spot it may need remade or it may need adjusted or perhaps you need some advice on the best way to put it in your ear.
Will I be able to adjust to hearing aids? Answer: Yes. It takes time to adjust to hearing aids, but it can be done. The brain has to be retrained and for some that can mean a month or so, for others it can mean several months or maybe a year of adjusting. The time it takes to adjust is call "acclimatization period" and it is different for everyone. There are ways to help. First, wear the prescribed hearing aid(s). If you were fit with two hearing aids, you need to wear both. Each ear sends information to the brain differently and the brain needs all the information to sort out the world of sounds around you. Secondly, wear your hearing aids all day. Just like getting used to glasses, dentures, jewelry or contact lenses, the more you wear it the more it seems like part of your body. Once you become used to wearing it, you will miss it when you don't' have it on. The same is true for hearing aids. Not only for the physical comfort but for auditory comfort. Follow the wear schedule that your audiologist recommends. Typically new users start at 8 hours/day and experienced users should be wearing their hearing aid all day (from breakfast to bedtime stories).
This information is brought to you by Dr. Yoder of HearWell Center. For more information about HearWell Center please visit our website www.hearwellcenter.com
Outside links that I find helpful to share with my patients
Helpful Hints by Dr. Mark Ross
Hearing Aids publication from the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders
Consumer Guide "Hearing Aids FAQ" published by the American Academy of Audiology
Online Hearing Test
I hesitate to put an "Online Hearing Test" on my blog because it is so limited. The best way to determine if you have hearing loss is to visit an audiologist and have your hearing evaluated. However, that said, some people appreciate having access to a survey that will help determine the need to seek audiological care.
Please remember to answer the questions honestly or the test will be invalid.
1. Do you ask your friends, family members or co-workers to repeat themselves frequently (frequently is 3 times a day or more)?
2. Do you turn your television louder than is comfortable for others watching television with you?
3. Do you find yourself turning up the volume on the phone (whether regular phone or cell phone)?
4. Do you struggle to hear people correctly and mistake what they say, sometimes to the point of embarrassment?
5. Do you have to strain to understand conversation in noisy places (such as a restaurant or social hall)?
6. Do you find yourself lipreading people to understand what they are saying?
7. Do you lose the ability to follow conversation when you are in a crowd of people (such as an assembly or party)?
8. Do you request that other people take your phone calls because you are afraid of not hearing correctly?
9. Do you depend on other people to tell you what is being said in movies or television programs?
10. Has anyone told you that you are not hearing or that you should get a hearing aid?
Scoring:
If you answered Yes to less than 3 questions... No significant hearing loss or very mild hearing loss should be suspected
If you answered Yes to 3 to 5 questions... Moderate hearing loss should be suspected.
If you answered Yes to 6 or more questions... Significant hearing loss should be suspected.
This test was devised as a means to assess hearing performance for individuals who suspect that they need to seek hearing care options. This test is not sensitive to all types or degrees of hearing loss and should not be considered a diagnostic test. Only a full audiological evaluation will show the complete nature of hearing loss.
This information is brought to you by Dr. Yoder of HearWell Center. For more information about HearWell Center please visit our website www.hearwellcenter.com
For more Self Assessments Hearing Tests or Online Hearing Tests or Screenings visit
Better Hearing Institute
ASHA
Hearing Loss Association of America
HealthyHearing.com
Please remember to answer the questions honestly or the test will be invalid.
1. Do you ask your friends, family members or co-workers to repeat themselves frequently (frequently is 3 times a day or more)?
2. Do you turn your television louder than is comfortable for others watching television with you?
3. Do you find yourself turning up the volume on the phone (whether regular phone or cell phone)?
4. Do you struggle to hear people correctly and mistake what they say, sometimes to the point of embarrassment?
5. Do you have to strain to understand conversation in noisy places (such as a restaurant or social hall)?
6. Do you find yourself lipreading people to understand what they are saying?
7. Do you lose the ability to follow conversation when you are in a crowd of people (such as an assembly or party)?
8. Do you request that other people take your phone calls because you are afraid of not hearing correctly?
9. Do you depend on other people to tell you what is being said in movies or television programs?
10. Has anyone told you that you are not hearing or that you should get a hearing aid?
Scoring:
If you answered Yes to less than 3 questions... No significant hearing loss or very mild hearing loss should be suspected
If you answered Yes to 3 to 5 questions... Moderate hearing loss should be suspected.
If you answered Yes to 6 or more questions... Significant hearing loss should be suspected.
This test was devised as a means to assess hearing performance for individuals who suspect that they need to seek hearing care options. This test is not sensitive to all types or degrees of hearing loss and should not be considered a diagnostic test. Only a full audiological evaluation will show the complete nature of hearing loss.
This information is brought to you by Dr. Yoder of HearWell Center. For more information about HearWell Center please visit our website www.hearwellcenter.com
For more Self Assessments Hearing Tests or Online Hearing Tests or Screenings visit
Better Hearing Institute
ASHA
Hearing Loss Association of America
HealthyHearing.com
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
Temporal Bone Donation
There is much to be learned about the human ear and sense of hearing. The research that is done to understand the diseases of the human ear and the causes of hearing loss and deafness are limited by the inability to surgically investigate the structures of ear without further damaging the organs of hearing and balance. Therefore, temporal bone donation offers a unique opportunity to help further the research on hearing loss and deafness. I encourage you to learn more about this by visiting NIDCD National Temporal Bone, Hearing and Balance Pathology Resource Registry
This information is brought to you by Dr. Yoder of HearWell Center. For more information about HearWell Center please visit our website www.hearwellcenter.com
This information is brought to you by Dr. Yoder of HearWell Center. For more information about HearWell Center please visit our website www.hearwellcenter.com
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Buying a Hearing Aid - From the PA Attorney General's Office
Buying a Hearing Aid
Unfortunately, the Attorney General's office would not give me permission to reprint the article. You can read the "Buying a Hearing Aid" article at the following web address. (go to page 10)
http://www.attorneygeneral.gov/uploadedFiles/Consumers/bcp_book.pdf
For a paper copy write to:
Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General
Strawberry Square
Harrisburg, PA 17120
717-787-3391
This information is brought to you by Dr. Yoder of HearWell Center, Pittsburgh PA.
About HearWell Center
HearWell Center, located in Forest Hills, PA, provides the highest standard of care to patients with, or at high risk to hearing and vestibular disorders, in a respectful, friendly and professional environment. Audiologist Dr. Yoder maximizes the patient experience and enhances quality of life through individual-based audiology services including hearing tests, diagnostics, education, counseling, treatments, rehabilitation and devices (such as hearing aids, hearing protection assistive devices and alerting devices). To learn more: http://www.hearwellcenter.com/
Unfortunately, the Attorney General's office would not give me permission to reprint the article. You can read the "Buying a Hearing Aid" article at the following web address. (go to page 10)
http://www.attorneygeneral.gov/uploadedFiles/Consumers/bcp_book.pdf
For a paper copy write to:
Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General
Strawberry Square
Harrisburg, PA 17120
717-787-3391
This information is brought to you by Dr. Yoder of HearWell Center, Pittsburgh PA.
About HearWell Center
HearWell Center, located in Forest Hills, PA, provides the highest standard of care to patients with, or at high risk to hearing and vestibular disorders, in a respectful, friendly and professional environment. Audiologist Dr. Yoder maximizes the patient experience and enhances quality of life through individual-based audiology services including hearing tests, diagnostics, education, counseling, treatments, rehabilitation and devices (such as hearing aids, hearing protection assistive devices and alerting devices). To learn more: http://www.hearwellcenter.com/
Friday, March 14, 2008
Hearing Aids Explained
Hearing aids now accommodate some of the biggest complaints consumers have with hearing aids: Feedback, Background Noise, and Unnatural Sound Quality
Feedback/Whistling
Hearing aids of the past had a tendency to whistle (called feedback), especially for people with more severe hearing loss. Technology today helps eliminate feedback in nearly all situations. Several hearing aids employ feedback cancellation to allow for greater power (amplification) without whistling.
Background Noise
Consumers of hearing aids in the past have struggled to hear in background noise (such as a noisy restaurant). Hearing aids today nearly always come standard with noise management and directional microphones. Both features help cut down on background noise while making it possible to have a conversation. Some hearing aids even do this automatically (others have a button to push).
Unnatural Sound Quality
Another great advancement in hearing aids is the ability to fit challenging hearing loss such as high frequency (high pitched) hearing loss. This hearing loss is very common in the older generation but can also be a result of noise-induced hearing loss found in all age groups. Previously, hearing aids had a tendency to “turn up” all frequencies (pitches) even if the wearer only needed help in the high frequencies. This often made hearing aids sound very unnatural. Today’s high frequency hearing aids allow for natural hearing while amplifying only the frequencies necessary for better hearing.
In addition to the above features hearing aids have even more flexibility with Automatic features, Datalogging and More channels/bands in the frequency resolution of the amplifier.
Automatic Features
Hearing aids can be ordered customized to your needs. You may want a hearing aid that automatically senses background noise and reduces it for your comfort. You may be looking for a hearing aid that will switch over to a phone setting automatically when the phone is placed up to the ear (no whistling). Or you may be looking for a hearing aid that can do both and more by sensing all types of sounds in the environment and making changes for you accordingly. This is a more expensive option, so make careful consideration of your needs for this type of feature. It may be more important for someone who is very active or needs to have use of their hands for other activities (and cannot be stopping to switch the hearing aid manually).
Datalogging
This feature, datalogging, is very new. The hearing aids on the market this year are introducing datalogging as a way for the hearing aid to keep track of your environment and the hearing aid’s activities. This eases the patient responsibility for remembering every time they changed a program or made a volume control adjustment. Because the hearing aid records all the activity on the computer chip, the audiologist can pull this information from the hearing aid and see how it was working for you from day to day and what type of environments you were in. This increased the ability of the audiologist to understand your needs and make adjustments to the hearing aids accordingly. Let’s face it, we don’t go around with a notebook all day and record our listening environments.
More Channels/Band
As the hearing aids advance they are better able to add clarity through increased numbers of channels or bands. This offers a better fitting aid because it can be more closely tuned to your hearing loss. Whereas the aids use to have one or two channels (low or high usually) now they can have anywhere from six to sixteen channels. Think off it as being able to choose how much low, mid and high pitch you want to a degree that is very fine tuned. In everyday terms, this gives you the ability to adjust the hearing aid to your best satisfaction.
What does “Digital” Mean?
With the move to digitization, most hearing aid on the market today are digital. You can compare this to your entertainment center. Try to think back to the quality of an audio tape versus a CD. Most of us probably agree that the CD offers better sound quality. Hearing aids also benefit from the change to digital technology with more stable sound quality and better utilization of extra features and programming. Digital means more possibilities, more possibilities means higher patient satisfaction
Please find other info enclosed. Be careful of the internet resources as there are many false claims online. If you ever have a question regarding these issues, it is best to contact your audiologist.
Written by: Suzanne Yoder, Au.D., HearWell Center
Suzanne Yoder, Au.D. is a doctor of audiology and founder of HearWell Center. She owns and operates a HearWell Center location in Forest Hills, PA (Pittsburgh). Please feel free to respond to this blog by emailing her at info@hearwellcenter.com. You can learn more about HearWell Center by visiting www.hearwellcenter.com
Feedback/Whistling
Hearing aids of the past had a tendency to whistle (called feedback), especially for people with more severe hearing loss. Technology today helps eliminate feedback in nearly all situations. Several hearing aids employ feedback cancellation to allow for greater power (amplification) without whistling.
Background Noise
Consumers of hearing aids in the past have struggled to hear in background noise (such as a noisy restaurant). Hearing aids today nearly always come standard with noise management and directional microphones. Both features help cut down on background noise while making it possible to have a conversation. Some hearing aids even do this automatically (others have a button to push).
Unnatural Sound Quality
Another great advancement in hearing aids is the ability to fit challenging hearing loss such as high frequency (high pitched) hearing loss. This hearing loss is very common in the older generation but can also be a result of noise-induced hearing loss found in all age groups. Previously, hearing aids had a tendency to “turn up” all frequencies (pitches) even if the wearer only needed help in the high frequencies. This often made hearing aids sound very unnatural. Today’s high frequency hearing aids allow for natural hearing while amplifying only the frequencies necessary for better hearing.
In addition to the above features hearing aids have even more flexibility with Automatic features, Datalogging and More channels/bands in the frequency resolution of the amplifier.
Automatic Features
Hearing aids can be ordered customized to your needs. You may want a hearing aid that automatically senses background noise and reduces it for your comfort. You may be looking for a hearing aid that will switch over to a phone setting automatically when the phone is placed up to the ear (no whistling). Or you may be looking for a hearing aid that can do both and more by sensing all types of sounds in the environment and making changes for you accordingly. This is a more expensive option, so make careful consideration of your needs for this type of feature. It may be more important for someone who is very active or needs to have use of their hands for other activities (and cannot be stopping to switch the hearing aid manually).
Datalogging
This feature, datalogging, is very new. The hearing aids on the market this year are introducing datalogging as a way for the hearing aid to keep track of your environment and the hearing aid’s activities. This eases the patient responsibility for remembering every time they changed a program or made a volume control adjustment. Because the hearing aid records all the activity on the computer chip, the audiologist can pull this information from the hearing aid and see how it was working for you from day to day and what type of environments you were in. This increased the ability of the audiologist to understand your needs and make adjustments to the hearing aids accordingly. Let’s face it, we don’t go around with a notebook all day and record our listening environments.
More Channels/Band
As the hearing aids advance they are better able to add clarity through increased numbers of channels or bands. This offers a better fitting aid because it can be more closely tuned to your hearing loss. Whereas the aids use to have one or two channels (low or high usually) now they can have anywhere from six to sixteen channels. Think off it as being able to choose how much low, mid and high pitch you want to a degree that is very fine tuned. In everyday terms, this gives you the ability to adjust the hearing aid to your best satisfaction.
What does “Digital” Mean?
With the move to digitization, most hearing aid on the market today are digital. You can compare this to your entertainment center. Try to think back to the quality of an audio tape versus a CD. Most of us probably agree that the CD offers better sound quality. Hearing aids also benefit from the change to digital technology with more stable sound quality and better utilization of extra features and programming. Digital means more possibilities, more possibilities means higher patient satisfaction
Please find other info enclosed. Be careful of the internet resources as there are many false claims online. If you ever have a question regarding these issues, it is best to contact your audiologist.
Written by: Suzanne Yoder, Au.D., HearWell Center
Suzanne Yoder, Au.D. is a doctor of audiology and founder of HearWell Center. She owns and operates a HearWell Center location in Forest Hills, PA (Pittsburgh). Please feel free to respond to this blog by emailing her at info@hearwellcenter.com. You can learn more about HearWell Center by visiting www.hearwellcenter.com
HearWell Center in the News
HearWell Center was recently in the Valley Mirror announcing the opening of the Forest Hills, PA location.
Dr. Suzanne Yoder was pictured on the front page and an article reviewed the services offered at HearWell Center.
We are very happy to have this office up and running.
Dr. Suzanne Yoder was pictured on the front page and an article reviewed the services offered at HearWell Center.
We are very happy to have this office up and running.
Monday, February 18, 2008
Captioned Movies
Did you know you can go to the movies and watch the latest films captioned?
Many people are not aware that the local theaters provide captioned movies. I have enjoyed captioned movies for a number of years here in Pittsburgh, PA. The movie selection is limited and they only play the captioned movies a few days out of each month, but the experience is worth some inconvenience. It is so neat to understand every word said in the movie and just sit back and enjoy it for once. I often see the same movies twice just so I can take advantage of the opportunity.
If you want to learn more about captioned movies in the theater go to Insight Cinema http://www.insightcinema.org/ or call your local movie theater.
I encourage everyone who is interested to call their favorite theaters and let them know of your interest in captioned movies and ask for the movies you want to see. The more consumer input the theaters receive, the more likely they are to accommodate.
Don't forget to try the hearing assistive devices at the theater, too. I'll write more on that topic another time.
Many people are not aware that the local theaters provide captioned movies. I have enjoyed captioned movies for a number of years here in Pittsburgh, PA. The movie selection is limited and they only play the captioned movies a few days out of each month, but the experience is worth some inconvenience. It is so neat to understand every word said in the movie and just sit back and enjoy it for once. I often see the same movies twice just so I can take advantage of the opportunity.
If you want to learn more about captioned movies in the theater go to Insight Cinema http://www.insightcinema.org/ or call your local movie theater.
I encourage everyone who is interested to call their favorite theaters and let them know of your interest in captioned movies and ask for the movies you want to see. The more consumer input the theaters receive, the more likely they are to accommodate.
Don't forget to try the hearing assistive devices at the theater, too. I'll write more on that topic another time.
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