Wonders of hearing aids growing
Being able to fully immerse yourself in social situations without straining to follow conversations is one of the most rewarding aspects of a hearing aid.
As well as keeping the mind alert and healthy, it allows people to branch out with new activities and friendships. This is particularly true over the festive season when family gettogethers, summer outings and events like Cup Week become more common.
Audiologist Carolyn Till says people who have had their hearing loss addressed often wonder why they left it so long.
In some cases, it is years since they heard the birds and rustle of leaves in trees, or could decipher a conversation from across the room.
‘‘People often don’t know what they’re missing,’’ she says.
‘‘The good news is there is much more awareness now of the benefits of treating hearing loss and people are being seen at younger ages as the technology keeps on improving.’’
Carolyn, who runs Sincock & Till Audiology with audiologist Brenna Sincock, says it is important patients are matched with the right hearing technology.
Someone who has tinnitus, for instance, likely has different needs from a person who mainly wants to hear conversations more clearly in busy places like restaurants and shopping malls.
Although most hearing aids work very well with no adjustment required by the wearer, many now come with apps to more easily adjust settings and can often stream phone calls and other audio wirelessly.
‘‘Technology that enables a full spectrum of direct audio streaming from Android devices to hearing aids is just around the corner,’’ Carolyn says.
‘‘There are also more rechargeable hearing aids coming on the market with longlasting lithium ion batteries. These are often sealed units, making them less vulnerable to dirt and moisture. Some of the chargers can also store a backup charge in case you’re travelling and don’t have access to power.’’
The quality of sound keeps getting better, too.
‘‘You can get clearer, fuller and richer sounds, which everyone enjoys but which music fans particularly appreciate.’’
Designs are typically minimalist and modern, in keeping with current trends and active lifestyles.
Carolyn says Sincock & Till Audiology puts special emphasis on making people feel relaxed and welcome when taking the step towards better hearing.
This can start with a free hearing check from a qualified audiologist. People will also see the same audiologist every time they visit and they are encouraged to bring support people to appointments.
For patients who travel or live outside Christchurch, there are some hearing aids that can be adjusted remotely. For example, a dog’s barking or the sound of a jug boiling could be made less intrusive – simply send a message through an app, the changes can be made in the clinic and sent back via the app.
‘‘Every client is as individual as a fingerprint so we tailor the hearing solution to each person’s lifestyle and budget,’’ Carolyn says. ‘‘Our focus is on a genuine personalised service for users of all kinds.’’