When a hearing loss is present in both ears, two hearing aids should be considered. The most dramatic difference between wearing one hearing aid or two is the ability to determine the direction of sound. Understanding speech in noise or group situations is also considerably improved.
Digital technology has revolutionized the way hearing aids process sound, in the same way that streaming songs have changed how we listen to music. With digital hearing aid technology, listening comfort and speech clarity can simultaneously be provided with an automated volume control. All digital hearing aids are programmable (a computer is used to set the devices specifically for a client’s needs). Digital hearing aids are the most sophisticated amplifying devices currently available.
They range in cost from approximately $1100 to $3700 per hearing aid. The cost depends on the level of technology chosen. Generally, the more sophisticated the technology, the higher the price. Hearing aids offer you a number of choices and options to suit your needs, budget and lifestyle, which we discuss with you. Contact Us!
Since December of 1988, the Ministry of Health of Ontario has provided funding for a portion of the cost of hearing aids and FM systems, through the Assistive Devices Program. The grant is available for hearing aids for all residents of Ontario with a valid Health Card. The forms are submitted on your behalf and deducted from your cost of the hearing aids/FM system. More information can be obtained from the Ontario Ministry of Health Websitehttp://www.health.gov.on.ca/english/public/program/adp/adp_mn.html
or by contacting us
To determine which hearing aid is best for you, you should first have a hearing test to establish if you are a candidate for a hearing aid. Once the need for a hearing aid is established, the hearing health care practitioner will propose various styles and technologies based upon your specific hearing loss and communication needs.
Factors to consider:
- Degree and frequencies of hearing loss- Not all styles are appropriate for all hearing losses.
- Functionality- If special features, such as directional microphones, are required, a smaller hearing aid will not be large enough to house this feature.
- Ear anatomy- Some ear canals are very tiny, making it almost impossible to fit a CIC.
- Lifestyle needs- If you enjoy being outdoors, you may require a different aid than someone who enjoys the symphony. If you are often communicating in large groups you may need adaptive directional microphones.
- Manual dexterity- ITC and CIC hearing aids are easy to insert but require steady hands. Some aids have automatic features others require manipulation of controls. Some come with a remote, others do not.
- Cosmetic preferences- With the range of sizes, styles and colors available, it is simply a matter of choosing what you prefer.
- Cost-Hearing aids are available in a wide range of prices, so there’s something for every budget.
It is important to be aware that everyone’s hearing is unique and what may be an appropriate hearing aid choice for one person is completely inappropriate for another.
Medical intervention usually does not cure nerve deafness but in most cases it CAN be helped through properly fitted amplification. A hearing test done by our qualified hearing health care practitioner will help identify what type of hearing loss you have.
Beware of buying hearing aids by mail order or on-line. Hearing aids are custom made and adjusted for an individual ear. Proper hearing aid fitting requires follow-up appointments to insure your success. By working with a licensed Hearing Health Care Practitioner, you are purchasing professional care and service including appropriate evaluation, instruction in how to use the hearing aid, follow-up care and support, repair services and proper warranty.
Hearing aids are designed to aid hearing but they cannot restore hearing. They are only a part of the hearing rehabilitation process. We will help you with all aspects of your journey towards better hearing.
You haven’t heard well for a long time and you have adapted to imperfect hearing. You have to relearn what “normal hearing” is and one of the best ways to achieve this is to wear the hearing aids as much as possible, as consistently as possible during waking hours. You may have to increase wearing time gradually in the beginning but full time use is the ultimate goal. We will help you to accomplish this.
You haven’t heard well for a long time and you have adapted to imperfect hearing. You have to relearn what “normal hearing” is and one of the best ways to achieve this is to wear the hearing aids as much as possible, as consistently as possible during waking hours. You may have to increase wearing time gradually in the beginning but full time use is the ultimate goal. We will help you to accomplish this.
Everyone’s hearing loss and listening needs are different. By working with your Hearing Instrument Specialist, you can determine the extent of your hearing loss and the expected improvement. Just like with eye glasses, you do not need to wait till your hearing becomes a big problem to enjoy corrective benefits.