Canadians have many questions concerning hearing loss and hearing aids. What causes the loss? How do I know if I need a hearing aid? Where can I get my hearing tested?
More than 10 per cent of the population has a significant hearing impairment. More than 50 per cent of Canadians over age 65 have hearing loss which, unlike other disabilities, is invisible.
Hears the facts
Our ability to hear is housed in an intricate human system. When that system becomes weakened, it’s usually the accumulated result of life itself. Environmental sounds, exposure to loud noises or machinery, medications and genetics all play a role.
Hearing loss associated with aging (presbycusis) is the most common type of hearing loss. Because this type of loss occurs gradually, it can go unnoticed for years. Prolonged exposure to noise is the second-leading cause.
Signs of hearing loss
An easy way to identify hearing loss is to recognize how your hearing affects your daily life. You should have your hearing checked if you experience some of the signs below:
o constantly asking others to repeat themselves
o people seem to be always mumbling
o ringing or buzzing in the ear(s)
o misunderstanding conversations
o favouring one ear over the other
o difficulty hearing on the telephone
o turning up the volume on the TV or radio to a point that others complain
o missing essential sounds – door bell, alarm clock, smoke alarm
o can only understand others when looking directly at faces
o trouble hearing someone speak in a noisy environment such as a restaurant, theatre, car, church or synagogue
o difficulty following a conversation in a group setting
o respond inappropriately because of misunderstanding.
Checking your hearing
What you can do if you or someone you know has a hearing problem? Here are the basics:
Hearing test: A visit to a hearing health care professional for a comprehensive hearing examination will determine the extent of hearing loss. A hearing instrument specialist or audiologist can complete this test. The hearing professional will review the test findings and discuss what can realistically be expected from a hearing aid, and explain any limitations. They may make a referral to a physician or otolaryngologist.
Hearing Aid Provider or Dispensary: Selecting the right hearing aid provider is important. The service you get from the provider is just as (if not more) important as the quality of the product. A good hearing aid provider will focus on your complete hearing needs, rather than just selling a product. Look for a provider who will take time to find out about your lifestyle, evaluate options that best fit your needs, and work with you for as long as it takes to make your hearing aid right for you.
Many hearing aid dispensaries provide a full range of products and services including: hearing tests; hearing aid evaluations, fittings and repairs; and follow-up care and counselling.
What does a hearing aid do?
A hearing aid is an electronic device, powered by batteries. It consists of a microphone, amplifier, and receiver. The microphone picks up sound, which is made louder by the amplifier and is sent through the ear canal via the receiver (speaker).  Hearing aids come in several types and sizes with a variety of features. Sizes range from larger behind the ear models to small aids that are almost invisible. The smaller the aid, the more expensive it is.
There are three main types of hearing aid technology: analog, programmable,  and digital.
Analog: This is the oldest technology. These aids have an adjustable volume control. The tone (bass or treble) can sometimes be adjusted externally with a screwdriver. The cost is approximately $750- $1000 each.
Programmable: This technology is similar to analog. The main difference is that a programmable aid can be adjusted with a computer instead of with a screwdriver; these aids can be attached to the computer for adjusting. This technology is more flexible. The cost is approximately $1000-$1500 each.
Digital: This technology uses the same basic hearing aid components as both the analog and programmable aid. Its main feature is that it has a Digital Signal Processor (DSP), a more advanced and precise way to amplify sound. DSP allows the hearing care provider greater flexibility. Even difficult losses are easier to fit. Another advantage is that if a person’s hearing changes, most digital aids can accommodate the change. The cost is approximately $1800-$2400 each.
Factors that determine the best hearing aid for you include: the degree of hearing loss, dexterity, personal needs, and finances.