Monday, September 24, 2012

Heart warming testimonial from one of our patients!


I recently purchased an Audibel hearing aid and would love to tell you my story.

I am 79-year-old, and I was visiting my daughter in Tampa, Florida when one of my old-fashioned hearing aids lost sound.

While out shopping I noticed a sign indicating a hearing aid center was open.  I wandered in to ask if it was possible for the audiologist to have a look at my hearing aid to see if it could be repaired for use until I returned to Atlanta.  She looked at it, fixed it, and when I asked how much I owed for the ‘reconnection’, she replied, “Oh, there’s no charge.  It’s my pleasure to help you!”  I was pleasantly surprised.

Without seeming ‘pushy’ at all, she mentioned current hearing aids have advanced so much electronically that I might be surprised at the difference in new aids.  She said that she would check my hearing at no charge.  I agreed – and was told that my hearing capacity was only 26%. This struck me by surprise, but at the same time, I knew I wasn’t hearing well with the aids I had.  One of my special volunteer projects had been at the recreation center near my home in Atlanta where my children come to after school.  I was having a great time teaching them. However, my hearing began to diminish.  Finally, it came to the point where I could no longer hear.  The center offered me an adult to sit with me to interpret, but the problem was I could not hear the interpreter either.  I had to give up my much loved volunteer work.

After my audiologist (and now she began to seem like a caring friend) was able to show me how much better I could hear with the Audibel aids.  I was astonished with the quality of the aids – as was my daughter.  True, I can’t always distinguish the words people are using, but if they look at me when they speak, my hearing aids now pick up the sound I was previously missing.

As you could imagine, I could only hug and thank Ms. Gonzalez for her expertise, patience, kindness, and for the care she gave me as a patient.  My daughter went with me on one visit and said to me, “Mom, that lady knows what she is talking about and she is determined to help you.  Stick with her and see.”

Once the aids were delivered and placed in my ear, I came ‘home’.  When my daughter asked how the aids were, I actually heard her.  She was so excited.  Shortly afterward I heard her call a friend and say, “I can’t tell you how happy I am today.  My mother got new hearing aids and she was able to hear what I said.”  It was a happy day for both of us.

Now back to Ms. Gonzalez.  She is not just an ordinary audiologist.  She is very skilled in her profession (I believe she said she had been an audiologist for fifteen years), but most of all, she truly cares for her patients with such warmth.  In addition to that, she has a very warm, competent and smiling receptionist who also seems to have the same dedication to their customers.

This morning as my daughter and I walker her two dogs, we met a neighbor on the street, who was also out with her dogs.  My daughter immediately said, “My mother has new hearing aids and can hear me now!”  The woman replied, “My mother is actually in need of new hearing aids.  Where did you go?”  Not only did my daughter give her directions to Audibel, she praised Ms. Gonzalez highly.  Also, my daughter has a close associate whose son in college has severe hearing loss and also wears hearing aids.  My daughter recommended that when he is at home again, he should specifically take his son to Audibel.

You have a jewel in Ms. Gonzalez.  I had had previously purchased hearing aids from Costco in Atlanta, and they were fine for the time I had them, but often the audiologist would be a different person.  And Ms. Gonzalez was right – the new electronic ones offer an amazing hearing difference.

Just thought you would like to hear from a satisfied customer.  I can’t thank her enough.

Sincerely,

Charlotte Savignac

Friday, September 7, 2012

What to Expect When Going In for A Hearing Test






Shedding Some Light


When Going in for a Hearing Test




Visiting a reputable hearing center for the first time can make people feel a little anxious. Don't be! You are making a big, rewarding step to improving your listening ability and your quality of life. Keep an open mind and remind yourself that tons of people everywhere are making this same step. You are not alone.

Prepare yourself for some of the questions that will be asked. They may ask what types of places you frequent or the environment you are normally in to get a better understanding on what may have caused your loss of hearing. Asking if loud music is a part of your everyday life and if you wear earphones and how loud are normal questions asked by a hearing specialist. 

Hearing specialists will need to know as much as possible about your overall health pertaining to your hearing history in order to help you find the best hearing device to fit your needs personally. So make the step today! What do you have to lose? Visit www.listenagainhearing.com to schedule a free hearing exam.








 

Tuesday, September 4, 2012

The Advancement of Hearing Aids


The Advancement of Hearing Aids

Hearing aids were once known to be bulky, expensive, uncomfortable and more of a pain to deal with than coping with the hearing loss itself. However, a highly competitive market drives down prices and keeps the quality and features of hearing aids advancing very quickly. Major advancements on hearing aids have made today’s quality of hearing aids convenient, completely invisible, affordable and most importantly, comfortable and effective. Hearing aids are now made to withstand interference of everyday life, telephone static, waterproof, swim-proof, and can even be customized to fit an individual’s personal wants and needs making hearing aids completely customizable.
These tiny lightweight devices have come a long way from the bulky, basic skin toned devices of the past giving consumers plenty of options when searching for the perfect device to help hear at your full potential. Allow yourself time and patience when searching for your perfect hearing aid. You’ve got options.
 

Monday, August 27, 2012

What causes sudden hearing loss?


                What causes sudden hearing loss?

          We are well aware of hearing loss caused over time, but what about the people affected with sudden hearing loss? What causes your hearing loss to suddenly dissipate with no prior ear illnesses or warnings? It is scary to think about waking up one day with your hearing in one or both ears being gone. Ear specialists split this condition into two separate categories.

The first cause of sudden hearing loss occurring in the middle of the ear is called conductive loss. Conductive hearing loss is relatively easy to diagnose and also easy to fix. The most common explanation for this type of sudden hearing loss is from the head cold. Fluid builds up around the bones in your ear creating infections and causing you not to hear as well. Normally you will experience this within both ears at the same time rather than just the one. Once the fluid drains from your ears you will be able to hear normal again. Another more serious condition from conductive loss would be a severe blow to your head or a sudden loud sound. This would cause dislocation or a break in one of the tiny bones in the middle of your ear. Fortunately it can be corrected through surgery with no permanent damage to your hearing.

Sunday, August 26, 2012

Reasons we attend to avoid hearing aids.


      The Misguided Reasons We tend to Avoid Hearing Aids:

     A large majority of people report an increased quality of life through the use of hearing aids, but there is still over 27 million Americans who could benefit from a hearing device yet do not have one. Yes, part of the reason is the cost but a major reason is the stigma behind wearing a hearing aid. Some may fear looking older by wearing a hearing device but the truth is hearing aids are adaptable and provide a life-changing experience.
Remain optimistic while keeping an open mind to new opportunities by allowing yourself to hear fully. Refuse to allow untreated hearing loss to negatively affect your life by creating depression, career setbacks and even memory deterioration. Take a hearing test so you can get back to living a life free of hearing strain and miscommunication.  

Wednesday, August 22, 2012

Mike Wheeler and his daughter, Juliet, make a difference while giving the gift of hearing to children and adults in Africa.

Making A Difference while Giving the Gift of Hearing

Mike Wheeler and his daughter, Juliet, sponsor and bring their knowledge and devotion along with "So the World May Hear" to Zambia Africa. Over 1600 Hearing Instruments were fitted for both children and adults on this trip to Africa in 2011.



Monday, August 20, 2012

Insurance Coverage Concerns with Hearing Aids


        Insurance Coverage Concerns with Hearing Aids

Hearing is such an important part of an individual’s health and lifestyle that it’s concerning consumers that insurance companies don't make it easier to cover hearing aids. Hearing aids can be expensive and range in the thousands per device which can make it difficult for anyone experiencing a hearing loss to purchase hearing aids at a reasonable cost.

Some reasons suggested to the challenge of hearing aid assistance through insurance is the percentage of the elderly who accumulate hearing loss is so high that it would be financially viable for insurance companies to cover hearing aids on an insurance plan. The cost is too much and the percentage of people who need hearing aids is too high. So what can be done to make it more affordable for people to purchase hearing aids? Surely there has to be some compromise between all parties involved in order to make it profitable AND affordable without having the policies of younger people compensating for the large costs of the elderly.

 Eligible adults and children are mostly covered through Medicaid and some nonprofit organizations may provide assistance if you meet their guidelines. Still, we have a far way to come for full assistance.

Saturday, August 18, 2012

Ways to Keep Your Hearing Aid Lasting Longer



Ways to Keep Your Hearing Aid Lasting Longer

·        When not in use, store your hearing in a cool, dry place.
·        Handle your hearing aid with care.
·        Change the filters often so they don't accumulate wax or dirt.
·        Clean battery cabinet and change the batteries frequently to prevent hearing aid from suddenly running out.
·        Always clean and remove  earwax from your hearing aid to prevent malfunction or permanent damage.
·        Clean hearing aid using a small brush or cloth. Don't insert tools into sound outlet so you don't damage the receiver.
·        Don't wear your hearing aid while you are swimming, in the shower, or while using a hair dryer or hair spray.

Thursday, August 16, 2012

Warnings From the FDA and BHI to Consumers on Do-It-Yourself Hearing Care


Warnings From the FDA and BHI to Consumers on Do-It-Yourself Hearing Care

The Better Hearing Institute (BHI) is warning customers about purchasing over-the-counter, one size fits all hearing aids instead of consulting a hearing professional. Your hearing loss can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition. It is extremely advised to use a hearing care professional when purchasing hearing aids rather than trying to purchase hearing aids on your own.

Hearing devices purchased over the counter or through the internet without the proper consultation of a professional may not be accurate in fitting the specific needs and comfort of the individual. Hearing aids of today are more technical and need to be programmed in order to fit the specific requirements of the person’s hearing loss in order to provide high levels of benefit and satisfaction.

The FDA argues that over the counter hearing aids advertising one size fits most can cause an allergic reaction, ear canal irritation or a bleeding ear canal. Also, the sound pressure level of the hearing aid may be set too high and cause permanent hearing damage. They also proclaim that not seeing a hearing care professional could mean missing a medical condition that of draining ear, sudden hearing loss or other conditions that may cause permanent damage if left untreated.

The FDA requires anyone needing even a small amount of hearing assistance to see a medical professional or sign a waiver. The FDA regulates anyone selling hearing devices to be a professional licensed by the State. The main purpose for FDA rules regarding hearing aid policies is to protect the consumer’s safety and ensure efficient products are being provided.

Monday, August 13, 2012

The Importance of Upgrading Your Hearing Aid


The Importance of Upgrading Your Hearing Aid

Even if your hearing aid works very well, it can still become dirty and worn over time. Your Hearing level and even the shape of your outer ear can change with age and extensive use of a hearing aid. Hearing aids are progressing very frequently so what could it hurt to get an upgrade on your hearing aid?

Some useful hearing aid upgrades could be:

·       Cleaning the casing, microphone and other parts of the hearing aid that collect dirt and moisture

·       Fixing mistakes that might have been made when originally fitting your hearing aid

·       Repairing the casing or other parts

·       Adjustments to the hearing aid to help fit your ear better with less feedback



Hearing loss worsens over time so be sure to upgrade your hearing aid to not only improve your hearing but to maintain optimal hearing.

Saturday, August 11, 2012

What to Consider When Buying Hearing Aids Online:


       What to Consider When Buying Hearing Aids Online:



·       Certain hearing aids do not always meet your needs, so be sure you are completely sure what hearing aid is right for you before searching online.

·       Consider that hearing aids purchased online aren’t complete with a hearing test in order to match your specific needs nor can you tell if they will be a comfortable fit.

·       No one is there to help with adjustment, reprogramming, or support services when purchasing hearing aids online.

·       Say goodbye to same day hearing aid fixes. Devices bought online will need to be shipped back to the manufacturer if they require certain computer software. You might need to go awhile without your hearing aid.

·       Giving up face to face professionals. It is important to have a good hearing aid professional that you are comfortable with and can go to with concerns or questions on your hearing aid. After all, you will have a long term relationship with this person.

·       Returns, guarantees and trial periods can be fuzzy especially online. Given that you are just another faceless customer purchasing a hearing aid, it is easier for the online company to stick to their guns with no returns, and strict trial periods so be sure you are aware of all the time limits before purchasing your hearing aid online.

Wednesday, August 8, 2012

Ways the Supplier Can Make Buying a Hearing Aid Feel Wrong


Ways the Supplier Can Make Buying a Hearing Aid Feel Wrong

All it takes is an employee to be in a rush or have an off day to make a drastic mistake when helping a consumer find the perfect hearing aid. Don’t be completely discouraged from finding a proper fit for a hearing aid if you felt the wrath of disregard and got a bad vibe from the one company.  There are people out there who are good at what they do and won’t stop helping you until you find the perfect fit.

Lack of information:

Most providers discuss style and features; however secret shoppers have proven that a significant portion did not. Studies have shown one out of four did not know if their aids had feedback suppression or whether or not they had directional microphones. Both of these features can make or break the decision on a hearing aid for some consumers.

Mediocre fitting:

Shoppers are constantly buying hearing aids that were bought as a misfit. They amplify too little or too much and don’t fit the consumer’s ear comfortably. Be sure the hearing aid representative has the priority to find an aid that fits to you personally. Be clear on what is important to you when finding the perfect hearing aid and don’t settle for less. If you’re unsure about the aid they are trying to give you, make it known you aren’t completely comfortable with it and move on. The representative should be able to work with your specific needs.

Whoa on the prices:

Hearing aids vary greatly when it comes to prices. They can range anywhere from $1200 to $6800 per pair depending on what you consider a priority when purchasing a hearing aid. Decide and stick to your budget when going out shopping. Be sure the hearing aid you purchase has all the features you want and fits to your personal comfort. Ask about what’s included in the hearing aid purchase regarding professional fitting and follow-up services. Get the bang for your buck so you feel satisfied with your purchase without feeling like you’ve been gypped.


Monday, August 6, 2012

Take Precautions When Searching For Hearing Aids Online


Take Precautions When Searching For Hearing Aids Online

A little research is needed before just mailing in your hearing aid for a repair. Stories from consumers who have mailed in hearing aids to only be deceived are happening more often. Here are some tips for ordering hearing aids online so you don’t wind up getting duped.

When you find a hearing aid company online that interests you, make sure to do your research. Email or contact them and ask questions. Don’t ignore the red flags. If it doesn’t feel right, move on to another company.

Do an Internet search on the hearing aid company for reviews or consumer complaints. You may be surprised to see what pops up. Steer clear if there are too many bad reports or complaints of the company being a scam.

Check the company with the Better Business Bureau www.bbb.org or call them to make sure the company is legitimate and has no illegal counts against them.

If all research seems clear of scams and negative input/feedback, be sure to use a credit card for payment. Avoid using a debit card or personal check this way you can easily maintain a chargeback if their half of the transaction doesn’t pan out. Once you have paid with plastic, print a copy of your receipt and confirmation number for your records.

Saturday, August 4, 2012

Hard of Hearing Volleyball Player Excels in the Olympics: Progress of Hearing Aids Throughout Time



To further into the previous entry of David Smith ( http://www.hearing-clear.com/2012/07/dont-let-hearing-loss-discourage-you.html ), he has proven that being 80-90 percent hard of hearing does not hold him back from victory in life as well as in sports. The volleyball team is up to be the first men’s team to win four Olympic gold medals and defend their title twice. His only true enemy seems to be the sweat. During the real sweaty of the games, his hearing aids will shut down, leaving him without being able to hear vibrations from the cheer of the crowd and beating of the ball.

David can read lips but it can be very difficult with the team moving around the court. The coach of the team has made a “David Smith Rule” which the team abides every game. If David is going for a ball, the team mates leave it so they don’t run into anybody.

The team is made of strong leveled athletes that can figure it out. They understand each other and work well together. Even growing up, nothing has ever held back David Smith. He attended a normal hearing school and at six foot eight inches, an impressive jump and a well suited physicality, David is extremely successful. He maintained a civil engineering degree from a regular university as well as playing sports.

Hearing aids are allowing anyone with a percentage of hearing loss to live a completely normal life. People are able to follow their dreams and live life to the fullest when they thought hearing loss wouldn’t allow them to. Finding the perfect hearing aid to accommodate your life activities will change your life for the better. All you have to do is make the first step.

Thursday, August 2, 2012

Audibel President: Mike Wheeler


On set today with Audibel President, Mike Wheeler while he educates people on hearing loss awareness and the importance of early treatment.

Wednesday, August 1, 2012

Elderly Hearing Loss


Elderly Hearing Loss

Elderly hearing loss is known as presbycusis, which is a type of hearing loss that is caused by the natural aging process of the body. The older we get, the less effective our ability to hear and see is. Hearing loss is a very common problem in the elderly which is why hearing aid devices are always being tested and amended throughout time.

Our hearing starts to decline at the young age of twenty. Without noticing it, days creep by affecting our hearing with the loud sounds of life. We enjoy concerts, ball games, parties, blaring our music, and occasionally screaming with excitement. And there’s no way around it, I have to mow the lawn with an iPod. We can protect our ears from loud noises that we are expecting but we still have to endure a certain amount of hearing damage from the noises that are less predictable.

Aging causes the inside nerves of the ear and other cells to die off after a period of time from excessive loud noise over a lengthy period of time. Most times there is no cure for hearing loss but with the help of a hearing aid, hearing lost is improved significantly. All hearing aids contain the same key components in order to help you hear better and maintain a certain level of wearing comfort.

Tuesday, July 31, 2012

Don't Let Hearing Loss Discourage You


Don’t Let Hearing Loss Discourage You

David Smith is a professional volley ball player who has an 80-90 percent hearing loss. He’s been wearing hearing aids since he was 3 years old. He is now 27 and has brought his men’s volley ball team to the Olympics. Although he never dreamed of participating in the Olympics, his excellent physicality has brought him to the top with his high jumps and level of intensity for the game.

David uses lip reading to understand his teammates. Face-to-face communication isn’t always possible in a sport like volleyball but he says it only affects him once in a while. The main problem seems to be when he sweats a lot, his hearing aids will sometimes go out. However, he recently began trying out a new brand of hearing aids which hasn’t given him problems yet.

Along with being a national volleyball champion, Smith is an Irvine alumnus who has his degree in civil engineering.

Don’t let hearing loss hold you back from following your dreams or discourage you from doing something you want to do. Being hard of hearing or deaf does not define you. Follow your dreams head on and live your life to the fullest. What do you have to lose?

Sunday, July 29, 2012

The Truth About Everyday Noises Causing Hearing Loss


The truth is, in today's society, hearing loss is caused more by the noisy bustle of everyday life than the aging process. Check out this exceptional article to find out the truth about hearing loss and where to start in order to get back the full potential of your hearing.

Visit NBCNews.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Friday, July 27, 2012

Toys That Could Damage A Child’s Hearing


Toys That Could Damage A Child’s Hearing

Children have sensitive ears that need to be protected especially at such a young age. Toys with loud and high pitch sounds can be detrimental to a child’s hearing and cause permanent hearing damage. If sounds from a toy hurt your own ears, than the toy is probably too loud for a child. Be careful of any toy with a loud horn, siren, talking doll, cap guns, walkie talkies, musical instruments, and toys with cranks.

Below are a list of toys tested and the decibel levels for each.  Keep in mind that anything with a noise level of above 85 decibels can cause hearing damage with extended and unprotected exposure of the sound.  The lower number is 12 inches from the speaker and the higher number is the decibel level at the speaker.

Road Rippers Lightning Rods
68/108
Tonka Mighty Motorized Fire Engine
69/100
Marvel Super Shield Captain America
69/98
I Am T-Pain Microphone
64/101
Whac-A-Mole game
69/95
Sesame Street Let’s Rock Elmo
74/95
Tapz electronic reflex game
65/95
VTech Magical Learning Wand
60/94
Green Lantern Colossal Cannon
67/92
Toy Story Buzz Lightyear Cosmic Blaster
60/93

Thursday, July 26, 2012

Outdoor Activities That Affect Your Hearing


Outdoor Activities That Affect Your Hearing

1.     Lake Activities: And we don’t mean a leisurely cruise on your kayak.  Bring your ear plugs for the planned day out on the powerboat. These types of watercrafts carry noise levels exceeding 90 decibels. (check out the blog on harmful decibel levels- http://www.hearing-clear.com/2012/06/harmful-noise-levels.html)



2.     Lawn Warriors: A regular lawn mower has noise levels of 85-90 decibels. A leaf blower emits noise slightly higher than 100 decibels. It takes about eight hours at this level to cause permanent damage so if you’re doing yard work for extensive hours always wear your ear plugs during yard work.



3.     Motorcycle Rides: One of the greatest pleasures in life is heading out for a motorcycle ride on the open road. Larger bikes can exceed noise levels of 95 decibels, with hearing damage in just 4 hours. Protect your hearing with earplugs beneath your helmet.




4.     Rockin’ Out: Live music in an indoor auditorium measures about 75-80 decibels, however, a rock concert can measure to above 120 decibels creating permanent ear damage in just 7.5 minutes. When the option exists, try to choose outdoor concerts over indoor venues.



5.     Sports Stadiums can measure as much as 115 decibels with hearing damage existent in just 15 minutes. You will still be able to hear the umpire make the call while wearing earplugs.

Wednesday, July 25, 2012

History of Hearing Aids


History of Hearing Aids

1600s & 1700s

During the 1600s and 1700s the “trumpet” style hearing aid was used. As you can see the trumpet had one wide end to gather and amplify sound through the narrow end to direct sound to one ear. Trumpets were made from animal horn, sea shell, glass and later, copper and brass.


1800s

During this era is when efforts to conceal the hearing aid with flesh colors began. Hearing aids were still quite large at this time but were designed to be integrated into collars, head wear and clothing. Royal members had hearing aids built right into their thrones for discretion.

1900s

The advent of electricity introduced a new generation of hearing aids in the 1900s. Electronic amplified sound through a carbon microphone and battery were worn around the neck in boxes containing visible wires. Smaller batteries were created to reduce the size of the hearing aid and a simple switch was added to turn the device on or off.  By mid-1990s hearing aid technology allowed more customization for any user’s lifestyle. Sound could be altered to be amplified, filtered, and reduced when needed in any surrounding.

Hearing Aids Today

Hearing aids today are smaller than ever in a light compact form yet are still powerful and offer complete comfort for the user. They adapt to the change in surroundings and can be streamed through telephones, stereos, televisions and computers to keep up with modern technology. Hearing aids are made in sleek designs with customized options and colors for complete personalization.