Frequently Asked Questions
How much do hearing aids cost?
Hearing aids are not inexpensive. However, we do not want that to be the reason that someone does not get the care they deserve. When it comes to hearing aids, there is a price range that is dependent upon the level of technology. We will work closely with you to determine which hearing aids will be most appropriate while being mindful of your budget.
How do I know if I have hearing loss?
It can be difficult to notice hearing loss at first, but here are some common signs it’s time for a hearing test:
- You frequently ask others to repeat themselves
- It feels like people mumble
- You like the TV louder than others find comfortable
- You have a hard time hearing when there is background noise
- A family member or friend has told you to have your hearing checked
Do I really need two hearing aids?
For most people, the short answer is yes. Our brain is designed to gather information from both ears. Patients tend to perform best with binaural amplification. In addition, today’s hearing aids are designed to work together. By only wearing one hearing aid, you lose access to some of the advanced features that help you to hear better in noisy environments.
Do you only work with adults?
We work with patients of all ages from a few months old to 100+. No matter your age, we can help you – or your child – with hearing loss.
Why do I hear a ringing in my ears?
Ringing in the ears is medically known as tinnitus. Tinnitus itself is not a hearing disorder but a symptom of another underlying condition. We offer tinnitus treatment in the form of hearing aids that can help distract your brain from annoying ringing in the ears.
Why do my ears feel clogged?
Clogged ears can be the result of impacted earwax, allergies, ear infection, or hearing loss. To determine the cause, we will perform an ear exam using an otoscope to determine the best treatment plan.
Doesn’t hearing loss only affect “old” people?
No, hearing loss can affect anyone of any age, even children can have hearing loss! Just as some people need glasses to see better, some people need hearing aids to hear better, no matter their age.
Will people notice my hearing aids?
No hearing aids can actually draw less attention to you. Hearing aids today are practically invisible and very discreet. Asking people to repeat themselves or saying “what” draws more attention than wearing hearing aids.
Communication Tips
Adjusting to hearing aid technology can be challenging at first. So can communicating with someone who may have untreated hearing loss. To help everyone learn to communicate better, regardless of hearing range, we have gathered some tips for both listeners and speakers.
Tips for Listeners
If you are experiencing hearing loss, these active listening strategies will enhance your communication with other people. The tips will help create a more positive communication experience than hearing aids alone will provide.
Body Language
- Face the speaker directly and maintain a clear view of their face.
- Use glasses and/or hearing aids as needed.
- Stay within 3–5 feet of the person speaking.
Environmental Tips
- Set realistic expectations for what you can hear in different settings.
- Ensure good lighting and avoid shadows on the speaker’s face.
- Reduce background noise (TV, radio, running water) and close open windows/doors facing noise.
- Improve room acoustics when possible.
- At restaurants: choose off-peak times, request a quiet table/booth, and sit with your back to the noise.
- At events: sit close to the front and use assistive listening devices when available.
Communication Behaviors
- Ask for clarification and be specific about what you missed.
- Stay engaged and informed, it helps you follow conversations.
- Don’t worry about appearing to “stare” when focusing on someone’s speech.
- Treat conversation as two-way; share your needs and ask for help when needed.
- Avoid bluffing, don’t nod if you didn’t understand.
- Pay attention to your own speech clarity.
- On the phone, repeat information back to confirm.
- Practice active listening rather than relying on others to listen for you.
Tips for Speakers
Successful communication requires the efforts of all people involved in a conversation. Even when the person with hearing loss uses hearing aids and active listening strategies, it is crucial that others involved in the communication process consistently use good communication strategies.
- Face the person directly in good lighting.
- Speak clearly at a natural pace—don’t shout.
- Say their name before you start talking.
- Keep hands away from your face and stay 3–5 feet away.
- Reduce background noise and avoid loud environments.
- Rephrase rather than repeat if they don’t understand.
- Share the topic and let them know if it changes.
- Provide key details in writing and confirm important info.
- Watch for signs of confusion and check in gently.
- Be patient and supportive.