Hearing Aid Services
Do I need a Hearing Aid?
General information on hearing loss and Hearing Aid Questionnaire.
What do Hearing Aids look like?
Interactive style guide with pictures of different types of hearing aids.
What type of Hearing Aid do I choose?
Description of current hearing aid technology and available options.
How much do Hearing Aids cost?
Hearing aid pricing guide and comparison for use as a general guideline.
How do I get a Hearing Aid?
Information on how to schedule an evaluation and to obtain hearing aids.
Do I need a Hearing Aid?
The only way to determine if you have a hearing loss that requires hearing aids is to have a complete evaluation by an audiologist or hearing professional. However, there are some signs and symptoms that can alert you to the presence of a possible hearing loss.
You might have a hearing loss if ...
- You hear people speaking but you have to strain to understand their words.
- You frequently ask people to repeat what they said.
- You don't laugh at jokes because you miss too much of the punch line.
- You frequently complain that people mumble.
- You play the TV or radio louder than your friends, spouse and relatives.
- You sometimes miss the doorbell or the telephone.
- You find that looking at people when they talk makes it easier to understand.
If you have any of these symptoms, see an audiologist for evaluation.
You will receive a complete diagnostic test with results summarized on an Audiogram. The audiogram determines the exact level of your hearing and any type and degree of hearing loss, as well as your ability to understand speech information. The evaluation also includes a thorough case history (interview) as well as visual inspection of the ear canal and eardrum. If medical intervention is needed, you will be referred to an ear, nose and throat specialist for further management.
A written hearing screening can provide you with some general information about your hearing ability. It may also offer some insight regarding the likelihood of a hearing loss. You may want to complete this helpful Hearing Questionaire to determine if you should have a hearing evaluation.
Please e-mail or call us if you would like to schedule an appointment for consultation and evaluation.
What do Hearing Aids look like?
Completely In-the-Canal (CIC)
CIC hearing aids fit entirely in the ear canal. Cosmetically, a CIC is the least visible. However, it is not suitable for all types and degrees of hearing loss.
In-the-Canal (ITC)
ITC hearing aids fit within the canal portion of the ear. This style may be referred to as a canal, half shell, or miniature canal model aid.
In-the-Ear (ITE)
ITE hearing aids fit into the canal and the outer part of the ear, completely filling the bowl of the ear. This style may also be called full concha or low profile.
Behind-the-Ear (BTE)
BTE hearing aids fit neatly behind the ear and connect to an ear mold by a short plastic tube. This aid is easier to manipulate for children and individuals with limited dexterity. This style can also provide more power and flexibility in years to come.
What type of Hearing Aid do I choose?
All of our hearing aids use the latest in 100% Digital Sound Processing (DSP) technology. Digital hearing aids provide the clearest possible sound quality and extreme flexibility for adjustment. All digital hearing aids are fine-tuned by a computer, which allows us to adjust the settings to fit your exact hearing loss. While all digital hearing aids work essentially the same, there are different levels of technology and sophistication available. Your audiologist will help to choose which digital hearing aid is right for you.
Making sense of technology
How much do Hearing Aids cost?
It's a fact: almost all hearing aids seem very expensive to the average consumer. Don't be put off by 'Sticker Shock!' Think about what you're really paying for:
- A superior quality, high technology computer-based product.
- An instrument with a life expectancy of anywhere from 5 to 8 years.
- A custom fitting, designed to fit exactly to your ears and your lifestyle.
- A manufacturer's warranty for repair of any problem or defect.
- A Loss and Damage policy that covers full replacement for one or two years.
- A high level of customer service and support from a qualified professional.
- The peace of mind that comes with better hearing.
Or, in other words....
For the average fitting of 2 high-quality digital hearing aids worn everyday, you can enjoy significantly enhanced communication for LESS than the cost of your morning cup of coffee!
How does that sound?
How do I get a Hearing Aid?
If you would like a consultation for audiologic evaluation and to discuss hearing aids, please call our office at 704-376-1220 to schedule an appointment.