With so many different causes of hearing loss it is not surprising that nearly 40 million Americans suffer from some degree of hearing loss due to one or several factors. The phenomenon of hearing is achieved with not only the ears, but also the brain. When one experiences hearing loss the presentation of sound delivered to the brain is decreased, ultimately causing the brain to forget how to interpret sounds. This depriving of the brain of sound stimulation is referred to as auditory deprivation and these effects are not reversible, but are preventable with timely hearing aid use.
Studies show that those who delay hearing aid use are at a much greater risk of accelerating conditions like Alzheimer’s, depression and deprived brain function impacting their physical, mental and social well being. Hearing aid technology continues to improve tremendously by preserving and enhancing the important details of speech, working in tandem to help locate sound, reduce the additional effort put forth to hear particularly in noisy environments and pair seamlessly to Bluetooth enabled devices for wireless streaming capabilities.
Hearing loss can affect a child’s speech and language, learning, and social development. In cases of permanent hearing loss, hearing aids may be recommended to provide children with better access to sounds. A child can be fit with hearing aids beginning in early infancy and optimal results are usually achieved with full time, consistent use of these devices. Hearing aids come in a variety of color and style options.
Generally hearing aids require simple cleaning to ensure that you receive optimum performance and benefit. We suggest routine hearing aid checks but will gladly service your aids should you feel there is a problem.
Just like you, your ears are unique... there is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ earmold. The best fit is achieved with a custom-made mold. Custom made earpieces are available through our practice. There are several different types and styles of custom made earmolds. Earmolds can be made for the water (swim molds), personal listening, hearing conservation (shooters plugs, musician plugs etc), occupational/communication and hearing aids. These are available in several different materials and colors. Your Audiologist will help you decide what best fits your individual needs.
