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April 2009
Patients with severe and profound hearing loss can
be challenging to fit with amplification. Furthermore, our experience tells
us that many of the advanced features implemented in modern hearing aids do
not always adequately address the unique characteristics of severe hearing
loss. This review article will attempt to unravel some of the issues
associated with fitting severe hearing loss by examining recent clinical
studies. Specifically, this article provides the busy audiologist with a
brief yet substantive review of new and emerging trends in hearing aid
selection and fitting as they relate to adults with severe hearing loss.
Some of the latest technology designed to address the unique nature of
severe hearing loss, such as frequency lowering, bimodal arrangements, and
hybrid cochlear implants will also be reviewed. The reader will be able to
take away practical hearing aid selection and fitting tips, or "clinical
nuggets," that will contribute to greater clinical success in his or her
daily practice.
Full Story
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July 2009
Bob Buckwalter, a retired pastor in Williamstown,
Mass., bought his first pair of hearing aids in January. Like most people
suffering from gradual hearing loss, he had resisted the idea for years.
But, after talking with people who have benefited from aids, and doing
research to find a nearby audiologist, Mr. Buckwalter was ready to take the
plunge. But there was one thing he was not ready for: the $4,600 price tag.
"It's a monumental amount," Mr. Buckwalter said. "The technology is
impressive, and they've certainly made a difference in my life. But the fact
is, they're extremely expensive. And what I'm really surprised by is the
fact that insurance doesn't pay for them." Indeed, Medicare and most private
insurance plans will pay only for the doctor visit to determine the need for
a hearing aid, but not for the device itself. (There are exceptions,
including coverage for cochlear implants to treat severe hearing loss or
deafness, some Veterans Affairs programs and some federal employee
insurance.) The private plans that do pay for hearing aids usually
contribute only $500 to $1,000 toward the cost.
Full Story
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December 2009
If you're just starting your research on an upcoming
hearing aid purchase, first congratulations on taking that first,
all-important step toward a better quality of life. You're going to love
what you hear. Second, you may not love the price tag that comes with it but
please keep reading. Hearing aids are a worthy investment for you and those
you love. Whether we're talking about cars, clothes or hearing aids, quality
costs more. You've learned that after a few years of shopping for cars and
clothes, but hearing aids, well, this may be your first foray into hearing
technology, so prepare yourself. Prepare yourself for sticker shock. Hearing
aids - good ones - are going to set you back some, and we're not talking
about those tacky ear amps they sell on TV so "you can watch TV without
disturbing your partner. ONLY $14.95!!!!"
Full Story
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October 2010
Notice that the higher pitched sounds are a little
muffled these days? Or maybe those low notes don't get through clearly? If
you're not hearing the world the way you did back then, you're missing a
lot. Today, people who experience hearing loss have a long list of options
when selecting hearing aids - but which is right for you? Well, it depends
on two key factors: (1) the type and extent of your hearing loss and (2)
your priorities - what's important to you. Start by making a list of what's
most important to you in your selection of the type of hearing aids that'll
work best as your connection to the world of sound. Hearing aid
manufacturers offer a full slate of options from tiny completely-in the-ear
(CIC) hearing aids to behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids that pack a lot of
oomph and a long list of features.
Full Story
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
May 2012
The "invisible" hearing aid is a relatively new
category of hearing device. It is the tiniest on the market and sits deep in
the ear canal. But don't let the size fool you-these miniature wonders of
technology are some of the most advanced computers anywhere. The quality of
sound is better than most of us would have imagined in a larger device even
five years ago, and some have a power punch so strong even individuals with
severe hearing loss can use them. While there are several
"invisible-in-the-canal" (iic) devices available (also called mini
completely-in-the-canal or mini cics), three stand out for being the
smallest of the small and unique in the category. Keep in mind, however,
that a mini hearing aid may not be best for you. Ask your hearing healthcare
professional for help determining if iics are optimal for you and your
hearing loss
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