Audiology Services For Seniors: Improving Quality of Life

Posted on February 6, 2024 by admin

As we age, various aspects of our health require more attention, and hearing is no exception. For older individuals, maintaining good hearing health is essential for a high quality of life. Audiology services for seniors play a significant role in addressing age-related hearing issues and ensuring that seniors can lead fulfilling lives.

Here, we’ll explore the importance of audiology services for seniors and how they can contribute to quality living.

7 Ways Audiology Services For Seniors Enhance Quality of Life

1. Audiologists can help seniors understand age-related hearing loss.

As people age, changes in the inner ear, middle ear, and auditory nerve can lead to a decline in hearing abilities. Age-related hearing loss, also known as presbycusis, is a natural result of these changes and commonly experienced by seniors. Audiology services are essential for diagnosing and addressing hearing issues early on so they don’t negatively impact quality of life.

2. Audiology services provide early detection and intervention for hearing loss.

One of the key benefits of regular hearing tests or screenings is that potential hearing problems are identified before they significantly impact a senior’s life. Early intervention, such as hearing aids or other assisted listening devices, can prevent further hearing deterioration and enhance overall well-being.

3. Hearing loss treatment can positively affect communication skills.

Hearing loss at any age can affect communication, leading to feelings of frustration or even isolation. Audiology services for seniors not only address hearing loss but also focus on improving communication skills. Seniors can learn various communication strategies to help them navigate social situations confidently, despite the fact they have hearing loss.

4. Audiologists can provide customized hearing solutions for seniors.

Hearing professionals, such as audiologists, tailor their treatments to meet the unique needs of each individual. Some seniors may benefit from wearing hearing aids. Others can enjoy improved quality of life with a comprehensive aural rehabilitation plan. Customized hearing loss treatment solutions based on an individual’s need and their specific type of hearing loss can enhance their hearing experience and overall quality of life.

5. Hearing loss treatment helps maintain cognitive health.

Although research continues to be done on the topic, studies have shown a strong connection between hearing loss and cognitive decline. Audiology services for seniors play a crucial role in addressing this link by providing interventions that promote cognitive health. By maintaining good hearing, with or without the use of hearing aids, seniors can potentially reduce the risk of cognitive issues such as dementia.

6. Audiology services for seniors can lead to enhanced emotional well-being.

There’s no question that hearing loss can have significant emotional and psychological implications and leave individuals feeling isolated or anxious. Audiology services can address these emotional aspects by providing support, advice, and resources that contribute to overall emotional well-being.

7. Hearing loss treatment helps promote independence.

Good hearing is a key component of being able to maintain independence in everyday living. Audiology services can empower seniors to stay active and engaged in their daily lives. Whether it’s participating in social activities or navigating the challenges of everyday tasks, improved hearing contributes to a sense of autonomy.

Expert Audiology Services For Seniors in Mesa and Scottsdale, AZ

From early detection of hearing loss to customized interventions that promote cognitive, emotional, and overall well-being, audiology services for seniors can make a significant difference in their quality of life. At Advanced Hearing Group, we treat individuals of all ages who have hearing loss, including seniors. And, with offices in Mesa and Scottsdale, we’re able to service clients from all over the valley, including Gilbert, Tempe, Chandler, Glendale, and the greater Phoenix area.

To learn more about our audiology services, simply give us a call or schedule an appointment with one of our audiologists today. It’s time to see how hearing well can help you live well!

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How to Communicate Effectively With Loved Ones Who Have Hearing Loss

Posted on January 4, 2024 by admin
How communicate with someone who has hearing loss

If you’ve ever tried to communicate effectively with someone who has hearing loss, you may have left the conversation feeling frustrated. Between their lack of understanding and you having to constantly repeat yourself, it probably wasn’t your idea of a good time. 

Conversation is an integral part of life, however, and is especially important for the hearing impaired. Let’s look at some essential communication strategies you can use to have meaningful interactions with loved ones who have less than perfect hearing.

9 Tips For Effective Communication With People Who Have Hearing Loss

1. The key to communicating effectively with people who have hearing loss is getting their attention.

Many individuals with hearing loss are unable to process multiple sounds simultaneously, making it difficult to discern your voice from other sounds around them. Get their attention by saying their name, gesturing with your hand, and making eye contact. Do not start the conversation until you have their focused attention. This will make it easier for them to hear and understand while also reducing the need for you to repeat yourself.

2. Make sure you’re facing the person who has hearing loss.

Ideally, you should be facing them directly and sitting or standing at the same level. Also pay attention to the lighting around you. When they are looking at you head on and in good light, they’ll be in the best position for hearing clearly and being able to read lips.

The only time this may not be advisable is if the hearing impaired individual has better hearing in one ear vs. the other. In this case, you’ll want to speak directly toward their ear that has the best hearing ability.

3. Speak to hearing impaired people while in the same room.

If they can’t see who is speaking, someone with hearing loss may not realize that the conversation involves them. Or, they may not even realize there’s a conversation happening at all!

4. Communication will be more effective if the person with hearing loss is wearing their hearing aids.

Unfortunately, not everyone with hearing loss has sought out hearing loss treatment. If the person you’re speaking with does have hearing aids, however, make sure they’re wearing them! 

5. Be mindful of your environment.

Effective communication with people who have hearing loss is much easier to accomplish in quiet places. The hearing impaired individual won’t have to filter out background noise in an effort to hear your voice. If you must converse in a noisy environment, see if you can at least move to a quieter area within the room.

6. Keep your mouth clear when communicating with people who have hearing loss.

This includes keeping hands and other objects away from your face so it’s easier to read lips or process visual cues. It also means not talking while eating, chewing gum, or doing anything else that could distort your speech.

7. Speak naturally and clearly.

When communicating with people who have hearing loss, it’s tempting to speak louder and with exaggerated words. Resist the temptation and instead, speak slowly and enunciate your words clearly.

8. Use shorter, less complex sentences.

When you slow down, speak clearly, and use common words that are easily understood, you’ll find that the conversation goes much more smoothly. It’s also helpful to pause periodically between sentences. This gives you the opportunity to make sure your conversation partner is comprehending and following what you’re saying.

9. Realize that effective communication with people who have hearing loss may include writing things down.

Conversing about the weather or other everyday topics may not require complete understanding of the entire conversation. But if you’re talking with a hearing impaired individual about important things like appointments or their healthcare, it might be wise to follow up your conversation with written details.

Get Expert Hearing Loss Treatment in Mesa or Scottsdale, AZ

By following these tips, effective communication with people who have hearing loss IS possible and is often less frustrating. It’s important to remember, though, that hearing loss should not be left untreated. When detected, diagnosed, and treated in its early stages, hearing loss does NOT have to have a negative impact on quality of life. 

At Advanced Hearing Group, we’re proud to help people with hearing loss in the Mesa or Scottsdale area hear better and enjoy the gift of sound. We offer a variety of hearing related services including hearing tests, custom hearing protection, high quality hearing aids, and more. 

Simply schedule an appointment with one of our audiologists today and get on the road toward better hearing!

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Understanding the Different Types of Hearing Loss

Posted on November 30, 2023 by admin
Understanding The Different Types of Hearing Loss

Age-related hearing loss is a common occurrence, but did you know there are other types of hearing loss that can affect people of all ages? Regardless of the severity, like mild, moderate or severe, all hearing loss falls into 1 of 4 categories. Let’s take a closer look at those classifications so you have a better idea of what to watch for.

4 Types of Hearing Loss: Causes and Treatment

1. Conductive Hearing Loss

With the way our ears are structured, sound first passes through the outer and middle ear to the inner ear where it’s transmitted to the brain for interpretation. Conductive hearing loss occurs when sound is prevented from reaching the inner ear for one reason or another. Diagnosis often occurs through the taking of a thorough medical history, administering various hearing tests, or completing a visual inspection of the outer and middle ear.

Common causes of conductive hearing loss include:

  • Earwax buildup
  • Fluid buildup from allergies or a cold
  • Ear infections
  • A perforated eardrum
  • A structural abnormality

Common treatment of conductive hearing loss includes:

  • Medication to treat allergies, an ear infection, or another medical condition causing the hearing loss
  • Surgery to correct a structural defect
  • Earwax removal to clear an obstruction due to excess earwax
  • Hearing aids
  • Cochlear implants

2. Sensorineural Hearing Loss

This type of hearing loss affects inner ear function. Unfortunately, sensorineural hearing loss is permanent but that doesn’t mean it can’t be treated.

Common causes of sensorineural hearing loss include:

  • Use of ototoxic medications
  • Autoimmune diseases or other illnesses
  • The natural aging process
  • A genetic predisposition to this type of hearing loss
  • Structural malformation of the inner ear
  • Head trauma
  • Repeated exposure to loud noise

Common treatment of sensorineural hearing loss includes:

3. Mixed Hearing Loss

This type of hearing loss is just what it sounds like. It’s a mixture of sensorineural and conductive hearing loss, meaning that multiple parts of the ear are affected. Individuals with mixed hearing loss may experience tinnitus, ear pain or pressure, difficulty hearing soft sounds, and challenges understanding speech, among other symptoms.

Common causes of mixed hearing loss include:

  • The natural aging process
  • Ear infections
  • Head or ear trauma, including skull fractures
  • Repeated exposure to loud noise

Mixed hearing loss can be diagnosed through:

  • Hearing Tests – A thorough evaluation from an audiologist may include one or more of the following tests: audiometry, tympanometry, speech audiometry, otoacoustic emissions, and Weber testing. While each of these tests is different, they provide clues as to the type and degree of hearing loss present.

Common treatment of mixed hearing loss includes:

  • Surgery to correct a structural defect
  • Hearing aids
  • Cochlear implants

4. Auditory Neuropathy Spectrum Disorder (ANSD)

Sometimes, environmental sounds make it into the inner ear just fine. But when they get there, the signal to the brain is interrupted or jumbled. This is known as auditory neuropathy spectrum disorder, or ANSD. Symptoms include not being able to differentiate sounds and having difficulty understanding speech clearly.

Common causes of ANSD include:

  • Damage to inner ear hair cells
  • Genetic mutations or neurologic conditions
  • Damage to the auditory nerve
  • A head injury
  • Low oxygen prior to or after birth
  • Use of ototoxic medications

ANSD can be diagnosed through:

  • Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE) Testing: OAE testing measures how well the inner ear, or cochlea, functions. No response is required from the patient so this type of test is ideal for infants or people who are unable to communicate clearly. Otoacoustic emissions testing is often done as part of a newborn hearing screening to rule out hearing loss before a baby even leaves the hospital.
  • Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR): ABR testing is another way to measure the inner ear’s function. Electrodes are attached to the skin and brain activity is recorded in response to sounds sent to the patient’s ears through headphones. Like OAE testing, no response is required by the patient.

Common treatment of ANSD includes:

  • Hearing aids
  • Cochlear implants
  • Use of a hearing-assistive technology system

In addition to the treatment methods already mentioned, people with ANSD may benefit from knowing sign language or using visual communication skills for improved understanding of speech.

Treatment for Different Types of Hearing Loss in Mesa and Scottsdale, AZ

The good news is that the average person doesn’t have to completely understand the different types of hearing loss. After all, that’s what hearing professionals like audiologists are for! What you DO need to know are the common signs of hearing loss so you’ll be able to recognize hearing changes in yourself or a loved one when they occur.

At Advanced Hearing Group, we’re committed to helping people of all ages enhance their living through the gift of sound. While a good part of our job is to help people hear better after hearing loss has already occurred, we’re also determined to help people prevent hearing loss whenever possible. That’s why we offer custom hearing protection options and continually educate the public about the dangers of noise-induced hearing loss.

Whether you still have healthy hearing, you’re starting to notice hearing changes, or you’ve been dealing with hearing loss for a long time, we’d love to help. Simply give us a call or schedule an appointment online today. It’s time to hear well and live well!

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4 Steps to Protect Your Hearing and Prevent Hearing Loss

Posted on October 26, 2023 by admin
protect your hearing

No one looks forward to growing old and needing to wear hearing aids, but that will be inevitable if you don’t protect your hearing NOW. In fact, if you’re regularly exposed to loud noise without the appropriate hearing protection, that day could come far more quickly than you expect … even BEFORE you grow old.

According to the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “an estimated 12.5% of children and adolescents aged 6-19 years (approximately 5.2 million) and 17% of adults aged 20-69 years (approximately 26 million) have suffered permanent damage to their hearing from excessive exposure to noise.” These figures represent a significant number of people and this is one statistical group you don’t want to be part of.

What kinds of sounds can cause noise-induced hearing loss? The list is endless but in short, ANY sound that’s louder than 85 decibels (dB) can cause permanent hearing damage. Activities like mowing your lawn, watching fireworks, or attending your favorite band’s concert can all register at 100 dB or more.

4 Ways to Protect Your Hearing

The good news is that noise-induced hearing loss IS preventable if you simply know what hearing protection measures are appropriate and effective. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, here are four ways to protect your hearing now that can also help you hear better in the future:

1. Schedule routine hearing tests with an audiologist.

Remember when you were younger and you got a hearing test at school as part of your yearly checkup? While annual hearing tests are often advised or even mandated for school aged children, adults often let them go by the wayside. Perhaps that’s because many people think they don’t have to worry about hearing changes until they get ‘old’.

The truth is that hearing loss can occur at ANY age and to anyone. Of course, if you’re regularly exposed to loud noise at work or even at play, your risk for hearing loss increases. If you get a baseline hearing test, and then subsequent tests yearly after that, it’ll be easy for your audiologist or other healthcare provider to recognize when there’s been even a small change in your hearing. Early diagnosis and treatment of hearing loss may alert you to lifestyle factors you can change that would prevent your hearing from getting worse.

2. Wear appropriate hearing protection when exposed to loud noise.

If you work in a noisy environment, there’s a good chance that your employer may be required to provide hearing protection for you. If they do, be sure to wear it AND make sure it’s adequate for the type of noise exposure you have. You may want to talk to an audiologist about professional hearing protection options that are designed specifically for you and your situation.

Hearing protection applies to your life outside of work, too. There’s no need to give up noisy recreational activities to protect your hearing if you’re willing to wear ear plugs, headphones, or other protective devices. Just plan ahead and be prepared for those times when loud noise exposure will be inevitable.

3. Turn down the volume on your devices.

Listening to music or watching TV shouldn’t make anyone else in the room uncomfortable. If others often complain that the volume on these devices is too loud, you’re setting yourself up for noise-induced hearing loss. Keep the volume at a comfortable level. You should be able to easily hear when you’re next to the device but you DON’T need to be able to hear it from the next room!

4. Get custom ear molds for your headphones.

Imagine having the ultimate listening experience WITHOUT having to turn up the volume too much on your devices. This is possible when you have custom ear molds that can connect to your headphones’ wires. You’ll be able to hear better at a safer volume and background noise is significantly reduced.

Protect Your Hearing With the Help of Our Mesa and Scottsdale Audiologists

At Advanced Hearing Group, we love helping people in and around Mesa and Scottsdale, AZ have the ultimate hearing experience. For many, that means treating hearing loss that has already occurred and fitting them with the best hearing aids available. But we really get excited when we can help people PREVENT hearing loss, and we’d love to do the same for YOU!

Schedule an appointment with our audiologists today. We’ll be happy to conduct a hearing test and thorough hearing evaluation, as well as provide recommendations for ways you can protect your hearing that fit your lifestyle and your budget. Let’s get you on the road to hearing well and living well … for the rest of your life!

Read the full story from Johns Hopkins Medicine here.

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ADHD or Hearing Loss: How to Tell the Difference

Posted on September 4, 2023 by admin
It can be difficult to tell between ADHD and hearing loss in children, but a hearing test can help.
ADHD can be a common diagnosis for children, but undiagnosed hearing loss could be the reason for developmental delays.

If you’ve noticed that your child has difficulty paying attention in the classroom, or that they can’t seem to focus on class assignments, it might be a good idea to find out if they have ADHD or hearing loss. That’s because ADHD, or Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and hearing loss can present with similar symptoms. Unfortunately, both conditions can have a significant impact on your child’s overall development and progress in school.

What is ADHD?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is one of the most common neurodevelopmental conditions of childhood. Children with ADHD often exhibit a variety of symptoms including, but not limited to:

● Impulsive behaviors
● A short attention span
● Difficulty focusing on tasks
● Excessive squirming, fidgeting, or overall activity
● Difficulty taking turns or interacting appropriately with peers

Unfortunately, diagnosis of ADHD can be difficult and somewhat subjective in nature. That’s because there are no specific tests that can be done to determine the presence or absence of the disorder. Instead, healthcare professionals must rely on observations of a child’s behavior and psychological symptoms in order to make a diagnosis.

What is hearing loss?

Hearing loss is a term that is commonly used to describe a condition in which someone has hearing levels that are below normal thresholds, either in one ear or both. The National Institutes of Health further breaks down hearing loss by severity:

● Mild: hearing loss of 20-40 decibels
● Moderate: hearing loss of 41-60 decibels
● Severe: hearing loss of 61-80 decibels
● Profound: hearing loss of more than 81 decibels

Children with hearing loss often exhibit the following symptoms:

● Inappropriate behaviors such as acting out or not responding
● Reduced attention span
● Difficulty with social interactions
● Impaired academic performance
● Speech and language delays

Fortunately, there IS a way to diagnose and quantify hearing loss definitively. The most common method is through a newborn hearing screening for infants or a hearing test for older children.

How to tell if your child has ADHD or hearing loss

You may have noticed some similarities between the ADHD and hearing loss symptoms we just mentioned. Since these two conditions often present similarly, it can be challenging for parents, caregivers, or educational staff to determine the exact reason for a child’s behaviors or poor academic performance.

Unfortunately, a misdiagnosis of ADHD when the problem is actually hearing loss can lead to unnecessary prescription of medication for treatment. An inaccurate diagnosis also does little to help with a child’s impaired performance at school. And, failure to recognize hearing loss and treat it appropriately can lead to speech and language delays.

So, what is the best way to tell if your child has ADHD or hearing loss? First, it’s essential to realize that they could actually have both. And, as the parent, there’s no need for you to figure it all out on your own. Be sure to mention your concerns to your child’s pediatrician. He or she can then refer you to the appropriate medical professional.

To determine whether your child has ADHD or hearing loss, a hearing test is often performed first. This, along with a thorough audiologic evaluation, can rule out or confirm the presence of hearing loss. Then, your child may be referred to a psychologist for further evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment if there is still a concern about Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

Professional hearing loss treatment for children in Mesa or Scottsdale

At Advanced Hearing Group, we see people of all ages with hearing loss, including babies and children. Some parents seek the help of our Mesa or Scottsdale audiologists after their baby has failed a newborn hearing screening. Others schedule a hearing test for their school-aged children after seeing them have difficulties in the classroom.

If you suspect your child has ADHD or hearing loss, it’s important to seek professional help right away. The sooner an accurate diagnosis can be made, the sooner an effective treatment plan can be created and implemented. Then, your child can be well on their way to healthy development and a positive educational experience at school.

If you live in or near Mesa or Scottsdale, Arizona, Advanced Hearing Group IS the hearing health clinic near you. Schedule an appointment with our audiologists today and we can help your child get on the road to better hearing.

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Can You Help Your Brain by Treating Hearing Loss?

Posted on July 29, 2023 by admin

Ask anyone what the main reason for treating hearing loss is and the response is pretty predictable. Most people will answer with something along the lines of “the purpose of hearing loss treatment is to help you hear better.

Finally being able to hear your spouse, children, grandchildren, or TV better IS a great benefit of hearing loss treatment. However, in our opinion, it’s not the most important one. In reality, the number one reason our Mesa and Scottsdale audiologists encourage people to treat their hearing loss is to promote good cognitive health and delay the onset of age-related cognitive decline.

So, how does treating hearing loss help your brain? We’ll talk about that in just a minute but first, let’s look at exactly what hearing loss treatment entails.

Treating Hearing Loss Is a Journey, Not a One-Time Event

Many people think that hearing loss treatment is something they get once and then they’re done. In reality, though, the only time this might be the case is when you choose to purchase over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids. That’s because OTC hearing aids don’t require a hearing test, can be purchased without a prescription at your local pharmacy, and they must be fitted and adjusted by the user.

In contrast, treating hearing loss by working closely with an audiologist or other hearing professional is a process. Here, we’ll walk you through the steps in the hearing loss treatment journey.

Key Steps for Treating Hearing Loss Effectively

1. Identify that you have a hearing problem.

Obviously, you can’t treat a problem if you don’t even know it exists. Have friends, family members, or even acquaintances been telling you that you have hearing loss? Maybe you’ve even recognized it yourself after having difficulty hearing conversations or discerning sounds in noisy environments. Either way, the first step in the journey is to admit you have a problem.

2. Schedule a thorough hearing evaluation with an audiologist.

Now that you think you have a hearing problem, it’s time to find out if your assumptions are correct. The only way to know for sure is with a hearing test and a thorough hearing evaluation. A hearing test will measure whether you do, in fact, have hearing loss and will help determine the severity of the loss. Beyond that, your audiologist will evaluate other factors like medical conditions that could impact your hearing.

3. Review options for treating hearing loss with your audiologist and family.

Many people assume that if they have hearing loss, they’ll automatically be fitted with hearing aids as the solution. However, that isn’t always the case. There are a variety of factors involved including the type and severity of hearing loss as well as its cause.

For example, some instances of hearing loss are actually the result of another medical condition. In these cases, effective treatment of that condition may also resolve the hearing problem. There are also some cases where surgery or medication are viable options for treating hearing loss.

4. If hearing aids are recommended, start with a trial period.

Here’s where the biggest difference between hearing aids purchased over the counter versus those prescribed by an audiologist occurs. With OTC hearing aids, you simply go to the store and buy them, follow the operating instructions included with the devices, and hope that they’ll help you hear better. (Also keep in mind that OTC hearing aids are only meant for people with mild to moderate hearing loss.)

When your audiologist prescribes hearing aids, however, the process looks much different. First, they’ll help you find the best hearing aids that meet your specific hearing needs, fit within your budget, and match your lifestyle. The devices will be set at a high enough level for you to notice improved hearing abilities but low enough so your brain doesn’t become overwhelmed with all of the ‘new’ sounds it’s having to process.

Then, you’ll wear the hearing aids for a 1-2 week trial period. During this time, you can make note of what works and what doesn’t. In a follow-up appointment with your audiologist, further adjustments can be made to set the hearing aids at the appropriate level for the ultimate hearing benefit.

5. Get periodic hearing aid adjustments or new hearing aids to address hearing changes over time.

Treating hearing loss is important, but it’s an ongoing process you’ll need to do for the rest of your life. That’s because your hearing will continue to change as you age. And as it does, your hearing aid prescription will need to change along with it in order for you to get the maximum benefits from wearing hearing aids.

In the video below, one of our audiologists walks you through the entire hearing loss treatment journey so you can learn exactly what to expect along the way.

How Does Treating Hearing Loss Help Delay Cognitive Decline?

Now that you know how hearing loss should be treated, let’s look at why we think it’s so vital for cognitive health.

First, it’s important to note that cognitive decline is a normal part of the aging process. However, it can happen more quickly when your brain doesn’t get adequate stimulation from your senses like vision or hearing.

People with untreated hearing loss often avoid situations where hearing is difficult. This can lead to social isolation and even further reduction of auditory stimuli. When hearing loss is treated, however, sensory deprivation is reduced and the brain continues to be stimulated, promoting better cognitive health.

Professional Hearing Loss Treatment in Mesa and Scottsdale, AZ

At Advanced Hearing Group, we’d love to be your partner in treating hearing loss. From hearing tests and thorough hearing evaluations to hearing aid prescriptions and other treatment options, we’ll be by your side all throughout your hearing loss treatment journey. We even offer hearing aid repair services to keep your hearing aids working effectively.

Simply schedule an appointment with us today and we’ll help you get on the road to better hearing!

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Hearing Aids Prescribed by an Audiologist vs. OTC Hearing Aids: What’s the Difference?

Posted on June 30, 2023 by admin
Audiologist administers a hearing test to a client to check for hearing loss.

In recent years, over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids have been getting a lot of attention. But, one question remains in the minds of many people: How are hearing aids prescribed by an audiologist different from OTC hearing aids you can get at your local pharmacy?

Here’s the quick answer: The actual hearing aid technology itself may not be all that different. Whether the hearing devices are purchased over the counter or through an audiologist, hearing aids are meant to improve your hearing ability when your natural hearing has declined. What IS significantly different between the two hearing aid sources is the hearing loss treatment journey.

Notice the word ‘journey’. Contrary to what many people believe, hearing loss treatment is NOT a one-time event. For example, purchasing hearing aids and wearing them is NOT the end of the story. To illustrate this point, let’s take a closer look at what happens when you get hearing aids prescribed by an audiologist.

Your Hearing Loss Journey: What Hearing Loss Treatment Looks Like From an Audiologist

When you work closely with a hearing healthcare provider to treat your hearing loss, there are several steps that are part of the process. Here, we’ll go through each one so you’ll have a clearer picture of the entire journey.

1. Recognize that a hearing problem may exist.

The first step in solving any problem is to identify that a problem does actually exist. The same is true for hearing loss. Have you been asking your partner or family members to repeat themselves? Do you turn up the TV volume louder than what others find comfortable? Are you experiencing difficulty understanding conversations, especially in group settings or in areas with lots of background noise? These could all be potential symptoms of hearing loss.

2. Have your hearing evaluated by a hearing healthcare professional.

Now that you think you have hearing loss, let’s find out for sure. Schedule an appointment with your local audiologist for a hearing test and thorough hearing evaluation.

At Advanced Hearing Group, we do complete hearing tests to determine the type and severity of hearing loss. But, our evaluation doesn’t stop there. If hearing loss IS detected, we do other diagnostic testing to rule out other factors that could potentially be resolved by surgery, medication, or other forms of treatment. We often refer clients to an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) doctor if conditions are present that could potentially be treated by means other than hearing aids.

3. Find the best hearing aids … IF they’re needed.

Once other factors have been ruled out and diagnostic testing has revealed the need for hearing loss treatment, your audiologist may prescribe hearing aids as part of the solution. But, not just any set of hearing aids will do.

At Advanced Hearing Group, our audiologists want to help you find the BEST hearing aids for YOU. Modern hearing aid technology varies widely with some models being very simple and others offering a plethora of helpful features. Ultimately, the best hearing aids are the ones that you have chosen based on your specific type and severity of hearing loss, your budget, and your lifestyle. Even the most advanced hearing aids won’t help if you don’t wear them or don’t use all of their features.

4. Have your hearing aids adjusted to YOUR hearing levels and start the acclimation process.

When you first start wearing hearing aids, it will take time for your brain to become accustomed to all of the new auditory stimuli. With hearing aids prescribed by an audiologist, your devices may initially be set lower than you need them to be. With use, your brain will begin to get used to hearing again and the hearing aids will need to be adjusted again.

This acclimation process is often easier for those who wear their hearing aids full-time. The process takes much longer for individuals who only wear them part of the day.

5. Get annual or routine hearing aid adjustments as needed.

As we mentioned earlier, hearing loss treatment is a journey. Since your hearing levels will change as you age, there will be a need for periodic hearing aid adjustments. While hearing loss treatment does help you to hear better, the number one goal of hearing loss treatment is to help prevent cognitive decline. That means routinely adjusting your hearing aids so they are able to continually provide your brain with the auditory stimuli it needs to stay active and healthy.

Hearing Aids Prescribed by an Audiologist vs. OTC Hearing Aids

Now that you know how hearing aids are prescribed by an audiologist and what that hearing loss journey looks like, let’s take a closer look at OTC hearing aids.

First, it’s important to note that the ultimate goal of over-the-counter hearing aids is to make hearing loss treatment more accessible, especially for those who won’t go to a hearing clinic or can’t afford to do so. As such, these devices are intended only for individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss.

Your Hearing Loss Journey With OTC Hearing Aids

Now, let’s look at the hearing loss journey with OTC hearing aids vs. those prescribed by an audiologist. The first step is the same – identify that there is a possible problem. But, that’s where the similarity ends.

With OTC hearing aids, YOU decide whether or not you need hearing aids. And, your decision may not necessarily be based upon a hearing test or thorough hearing evaluation. You can simply head to your local pharmacy or similar retail establishment and pick up a set of over-the-counter hearing aids.

Once you buy the devices, you must adjust them to your hearing levels by yourself. Fortunately, there are step-by-step directions that will help you do so. To learn more about what OTC hearing aids look like and how they function, watch this video:

Similar to buying a pair of nonprescription reading glasses, the purchase of OTC hearing aids is a one-time event. While you can make minor adjustments to how well the devices work, there is no hearing professional to help you with hearing aid maintenance, hearing aid repairs, or routine adjustments to help you hear better.

Hearing Loss Treatment in Mesa and Scottsdale, AZ

The bottom line is that YOU get to decide which hearing loss treatment journey you take … hearing aids prescribed by an audiologist or OTC hearing aids. Consider the long-term advantages of working with a hearing healthcare professional. We sincerely hope that you will take the journey with us, not alone.

To get started on the path to hearing better and preventing cognitive decline, schedule an appointment with our Mesa or Scottsdale audiologists today. We’re here to help you effectively manage your hearing loss journey so you can hear well and live well.

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Do Hearing Aids Affect Your Real Hearing?

Posted on May 30, 2023 by admin
Do hearing aids affect your REAL hearing?

One of the questions our audiologists sometimes get at our Mesa and Scottsdale hearing clinics is this: “Do hearing aids affect your REAL hearing?”

It’s a valid question, and the answer may surprise you. But first, let’s talk a little bit about the purpose of hearing aids and how they work.

How do hearing aids help you hear better?

You probably already know that hearing aids are small electronic devices that are specifically designed to improve hearing, hence the name! In simple terms, they work by making sounds louder and delivering them to the ear. This enables people with hearing loss to detect sounds they might not otherwise be able to hear.

There are 5 key components that work together to make hearing aids help you hear better:

  1. Microphone – The microphone inside the hearing aid picks up sounds from the environment and converts them into electrical signals.
  1. Amplifier – The electrical signals are then sent to an amplifier. Here, the strength of the signals is increased and the volume is adjusted based on a user’s specific hearing needs.
  1. Receiver – The amplified signals are transmitted to a receiver which converts them back into acoustic signals.
  1. Earpiece – Then, the acoustic signals travel to the user’s ear through a small earpiece or speaker. This piece can be positioned behind the ear, such as in Behind-the-Ear (BTE) Hearing Aids, or within the ear, such as with In-the-Canal (ITC) Hearing Aids. Both types work well but BTE hearing aids are more visible and ITC hearing aids are more discreet.
  1. Customized Settings – Modern hearing aids typically come with various features and settings that can be personalized to meet the wearer’s specific hearing needs. These settings may include adjustments for different listening environments or noise reduction, among other things.

By amplifying and processing sounds, hearing aids can help people with hearing loss hear more clearly and effectively. This can then lead to improved speech comprehension, increased auditory awareness, and easier engagement in everyday activities such as conversation.

How do hearing aids affect your real hearing?

Now, let’s look at the question we first started out with … DO hearing aids affect your real hearing? The short answer is … YES, but maybe not in the way that you think.

First, hearing aids affect your real hearing in a positive way. That is, as long as you’re using the right type of hearing aids for your specific type of hearing loss. And, as long as those hearing aids have been correctly fitted to your ears and adjusted properly.

When you use the best hearing aids for YOU, and when they’ve been fitted properly by a hearing professional such as an audiologist, your real hearing benefits. Your natural hearing may stay sharper for longer and the natural hearing loss that happens with age may be slowed.

Hearing aids may impact how you view your real hearing.

Now, do hearing aids affect your real hearing in a negative way? No! However, they COULD make you become more aware of the severity of your hearing loss.

Many people wait years before they seek hearing loss treatment. That’s because their hearing declines gradually over time and they often don’t know how poor it is until they schedule a hearing test.

Once you start wearing hearing aids, you go through an adjustment process. During this time, the brain re-learns how to process sounds that it hasn’t been exposed to in quite a while.

After you’ve adjusted to wearing hearing aids and become accustomed to hearing better, it may sound strangely quiet when you take your hearing aids out at bedtime or before you go for a swim. This could lead you to believe that wearing hearing aids has caused your natural hearing to decline further, but this is not the case. Rather, your brain has simply become used to hearing well!

Hearing Aid Fittings and Hearing Loss Treatment in Mesa and Scottsdale, AZ

It’s important to note that hearing aids are not a cure for hearing loss. However, they can significantly improve an individual’s ability to hear and communicate in various situations.

Thanks to recent legislation, self-fitting, over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids are now available at many pharmacies and other retail establishments. For the ultimate hearing experience, however, we recommend hearing aids that are selected, fitted, and adjusted by a hearing health professional. That way, you’ll have hearing aids specifically designed to meet your unique hearing needs, lifestyle factors, and budget requirements.

To find out if you have hearing loss, schedule an appointment with one of our audiologists today. We offer hearing tests, hearing aid fittings, and a variety of other hearing healthcare services at our offices located in Mesa and Scottsdale, AZ.

You DON’T have to continue living with untreated hearing loss. Make the choice to invest in your hearing health today so you can hear well and live well!

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Could Anemia Cause Hearing Loss?

Posted on April 27, 2023 by admin
Link between anemia and hearing loss

As medical professionals continue to investigate the connection between hearing loss and other health conditions, the link between anemia and hearing loss comes up again and again. While the topic has been studied for over 20 years, additional research is still needed to fully define the relationship between anemia and hearing loss.

Today, we’ll walk you through what anemia is, how it’s treated, and what types of anemia are most common. Then, we’ll take a closer look at what’s known so far about the anemia-hearing loss connection.

What Is Anemia and How Is It Treated?

In the human body, red blood cells are responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body to various systems and tissues. Anemia is a medical condition characterized by a deficiency of healthy red blood cells. Without enough of these important oxygen carriers, some body tissues suffer from insufficient oxygen supplies. This results in an anemic individual feeling weak or fatigued.

The treatment for anemia depends on the cause and can include anything from dietary supplements to medical procedures. Maintaining a balanced and healthy diet may also help prevent some types of anemia.

Types of Anemia

Anemia can take different forms and have varying causes, and may either be temporary or chronic. Often, there are multiple causes of anemia. Among the most common types of anemia are:

  • Aplastic anemia
  • Iron deficiency anemia
  • Sickle cell anemia
  • Vitamin deficiency anemia

If you suspect that you have anemia, it is advisable to see a doctor as it could indicate a more severe underlying illness. Furthermore, it’s important to work closely with a medical professional to determine which type of anemia you have and the appropriate way in which it should be treated. For some types, such as sickle cell anemia, you could actually cause more harm than good by attempting to treat it yourself with an iron supplement.

Anemia and Hearing Loss: What’s the Connection?

Now that you know what anemia is, how it’s treated, and what types are most common, let’s look at the link between anemia and hearing loss. How exactly are they related?

First, it’s important to understand that recent research has not proven that anemia causes hearing loss. But study after study has shown that the two conditions are connected. This is most likely due to the fact that the inner ear relies on a sufficient blood supply that is rich with oxygen in order to have healthy hearing. When the blood or oxygen supply is interrupted for any reason, hearing can suffer.

This connection is perhaps most visible in individuals with iron deficiency anemia. Without enough iron to carry oxygen from the lungs, through the blood, and into the inner ear, hearing loss occurs. For some, taking an iron supplement or making a concentrated effort to get more iron in their daily diet is enough to treat the anemia and reduce the risk of hearing loss.

Treatment of Anemia Could Prevent Hearing Loss

The bottom line is that both current and past research has shown a link between anemia and hearing loss. However, further research needs to be done in order to prove a causal relationship between the two conditions.

In the meantime, some research suggests that successful treatment of anemia could result in the prevention of hearing loss. Taking iron supplements or otherwise attempting to treat anemia should only be done under the supervision of your doctor, however. If you suspect you have anemia or are concerned about it, ask your doctor for a blood test that will prove the presence or absence of the condition. Then, based on the results, your doctor can work closely with you to determine an effective treatment plan if needed.

Hearing Loss Evaluation and Treatment in Mesa and Scottsdale, AZ

At Advanced Hearing Group, our mission is to help people hear well so they can live well. Our audiology offices in Mesa and Scottsdale serve clients from all over Mesa, Scottsdale, Gilbert, Chandler, Tempe, Queen Creek, and throughout the metro Phoenix area.

Whether you’re concerned about anemia and hearing loss or have noticed hearing changes due to another cause, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with us today. Our expert audiologists can perform a hearing test and thorough hearing evaluation to determine whether you do, in fact, have hearing loss. Then, we’ll work closely with you to create the best treatment plan based on your specific hearing needs.

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What to Expect During a Newborn Hearing Screening

Posted on April 24, 2023 by admin
Newborn hearing screening

Did you know that infants undergo a newborn hearing screening before they even leave the hospital? That’s right … along with all the other tests and procedures that are done on babies, testing for hearing loss happens before you even get to bring them home.

If you think it’s strange that newborns need their hearing tested so early in life, we’re here to set the record straight. A newborn hearing screening isn’t just a test doctors do for curiosity’s sake. It’s actually vital for your child’s hearing health and overall development.

Why is newborn hearing screening necessary?

Most babies are born looking absolutely perfect. Those tiny toes, cute little fingers, and soft coos make it easy to love a newborn at first sight. But while everything may look just great on the outside, it’s not uncommon for there to be problems on the inside that simply aren’t visible to the naked eye. And, while it may be difficult to think about your new baby having any problems whatsoever, it’s better to know about them if there are any internal issues.

A newborn hearing screening is exactly what it sounds like – a test that screens for hearing loss in infants. The reason why this test is so important is because hearing affects speech and language development as well as educational development as a child grows. When hearing loss is identified and treated early on, children with hearing loss can get earlier access to sound which can help them develop normally.

How are babies tested for hearing loss?

A newborn hearing screening is typically performed in one of two ways:

  1. Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE) Testing – This test measures the inner ear’s response to sound. A tiny probe is inserted into the infant’s ear. Clicks or tones are played and the probe measures how well the inner ear responds to them. Since no response is required by the person being tested, OAE testing can also be used with older people who have behavioral or communications disorders which would prevent them from being able to undergo a standard hearing test.
  1. Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) – This test measures brain wave activity in response to sound. Since ABR testing does not require any response from the patient, it can even be done while they are sleeping. In fact, for a newborn hearing screening, many practitioners actually prefer the baby to be asleep since they’ll be quieter, less active, and higher quality results can be obtained from the test.

Watch this video to learn more about how a newborn hearing test is done and why it’s so important:

What to expect after a newborn hearing screening

Of course, the best result of an infant hearing test is a ‘pass’. While this doesn’t preclude the baby from developing hearing loss later in childhood, it’s at least a good indication that hearing is healthy at the present time.

If your child receives a ‘fail’ from a newborn hearing test, it’s important to remain calm and follow through with recommendations from your hearing healthcare provider. It’s not uncommon for babies to fail the first test but pass a subsequent one done at a later date. This could happen because of fluid in the ear canal or middle ear right after birth.

If your baby fails a second test, it’s likely that hearing loss treatment will be recommended. When hearing loss is identified and treated early, there are steps that can be taken to help ensure normal development of your child’s speech and language.

Whether your baby has failed a newborn hearing screening or you’ve started to notice hearing changes in an older child, we are here to help. The audiologists at Advanced Hearing Group are skilled at testing and treating hearing loss at all ages and our goal is to help enhance everyday living through sound.

Simply schedule an appointment with us today to discuss your concerns and work with us to determine the best course of action for ultimate hearing health.

Learn More about Advanced Hearing Group
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