Dr. Jane Kukula, AuD

Q:

My mother was referred to you for hearing aids. She is reluctant to go because she said hearing aids don’t help mild hearing loss. Is this true?

There are many myths about hearing and hearing aids and this is just one of them. It is not true. Everyone's hearing needs are different. If your mother is missing out because of hearing, even with a mild loss, then hearing aids will help. Here are some other misconceptions about hearing instruments.

Myth: Wearing two hearing aids is not necessary.

Fact: The ears were designed to work together. Hearing with both ears provides directionality to hearing, improves word understanding in noisy places, and provides natural sound quality. Myth: Hearing aids restore hearing to normal just as an eyeglass prescription can restore vision to 20/20.

Fact: Just like glasses don't improve things like color blindness, there are some things hearing aids do not cure. Hearing instruments do a great job of improving your hearing, listening abilities, communication and quality of life.

Myth: You can save time and money by buying hearing aids online or by mail order. Fact: By working with an audiologist, you are purchasing professional care and services to ensure that the correct hearing aid is selected and the proper programming of the hearing aids. Other support provided by audiologists includes:

• Hearing evaluations

• Referral for medical treatment (if needed)

• Hearing aid evaluations

• Verification hearing aid fitting

• Instruction in how to properly use and maintain the hearing aids

• Follow-up care

• Repair services

• Rehabilitation services Continue to encourage your mom to investigate hearing instruments. She may surprise herself and find that she enjoys hearing better. Have her get started with a hearing evaluation. Life Sounds Great! Enjoy every moment.

The Hearing Center Advanced Audiology

Concepts 8897 Mentor Avenue Mentor, 44060 440-205-8848

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