FAQ

What is Hearing Loss?

Hearing loss is one of the most common conditions affecting older adults. One in three people older than 60 years of age and half of those older than 85 years of age have hearing loss. Hearing problems can make it hard to understand and follow a doctor's advice, to respond to warnings, and to hear doorbells and alarms. They can also make it hard to enjoy talking with friends and family. All of this can be frustrating, embarrassing, and even dangerous.

Why am I losing my hearing?

Hearing loss happens for many reasons. Some people lose their hearing slowly as they age. This condition is known as presbycusis (prez-buh-KYOO-sis). Another reason for hearing loss may be exposure to excessive loud noise. This condition is known as noise-induced hearing loss. Many construction workers, farmers, musicians, airport workers, tree cutters, and people in the armed forces have hearing problems because of too much exposure to loud noise. Sometimes loud noise can cause a ringing, hissing, or roaring sound in the ears, called tinnitus (tin-NY-tus).

Hearing loss can also be caused by a virus or bacteria, heart conditions or stroke, head injuries, tumors, and certain medicines

Even though I have hearing loss in both ears, can I get away with one hearing aid?

We are born to hear with two ears. Naturally, it helps us localize sounds, improves clarity of human speech in noisy situations, and gives a natural, balanced quality to sound. Most people with hearing loss in both ears can hear, localize sounds, and understand speech better with two aids than with one.

How much do hearing aids cost?

There are many factors that need to be considered when estimating the price of the hearing aid: What make and type of aid is it? What added options and accessories does it have? Do I get my hearing consultation and other services with the aid or is there additional fees? Prices for Hearing aids should be affordable and within your budget, this is part of the hearing Aid consultation. If you are an Ontario resident you may be eligible for ADP grant through Assistive Devices Program. Also check if your health plan insurance covers hearing aids.

Can my friends and family help me?

Yes. You and your family can work together to make hearing easier. Here are some things you can do:

• Tell your friends and family about your hearing loss. They need to know that hearing is hard for you. The more you tell the people you spend time with, the more they can help you.

• Ask your friends and family to face you when they talk so that you can see their faces. If you watch their faces move and see their expressions, it may help you to understand them better.

• Ask people to speak louder, but not shout. Tell them they do not have to talk slowly, just more clearly.
  Turn off the TV or the radio if it does not have to be on.

• Be aware of noise around you that can make hearing more difficult. When you go to a restaurant do not sit near the kitchen or near a band playing music. Background noise makes it harder to hear conversation.

• Working together to hear better may be tough on everyone for a while. It will take time for you to get used to watching people as they talk and for people to get used to speaking louder and more clearly. Be patient and continue to work together. Hearing better is worth the effort.

Our highly trained, certified staff is waiting to provide you with best solution in hearing devices to enable you to hear speech clearly.