FAQs
Can I obtain Financial Assistance for hearing aids?
Financial assistance for hearing instruments is available with our no/low interest financing as well as through several local, regional and national programs, including the Oregon Lions Sight and Hearing Foundation, Starkey Hearing Foundation, Oregon DHS Vocational Rehabilitation, Oregon Commission for the Blind
Are new types of hearing instruments available?
How can i care for my hearing aid?
How can I adjust to my new hearing aids?
What questions should i ask before buying a hearing aid?
Which hearing aid will work best for me?
All the hearing instruments we fit are personally selected and then customized for you based on a variety of important factors. These important factors include things like your level of hearing loss, your past experience with hearing instruments, your lifestyle and level of social interactions, your dexterity and ability to handle them, your concerns about cosmetics/appearance, your budget, performance, durability, style, color, size, adaptability, and compatibility with accessories, smartphones and other devices. Be sure not to sacrifice substance for savings. Though pricing for hearing aids at big chain stores is generally less than a hearing healthcare office, they have a limited selection, may stock hearing aids that are a few years behind in technology, and don’t offer the same broad scope of service and support found in the office of a hearing health professional.We offer a free evaluation and consultation to review all these details and come up with an appropriate recommendation for you.
Do all hearing aids work the same way?
Every hearing instrument we fit is uniquely selected, customized, and fitted to each individual according to their particular needs and concerns. This includes the specific amplification need for the hearing loss, the specific programs and features appropriate for the lifestyle and social interactions of the individual. Different styles accommodate the cosmetic, dexterity, and anatomy of each person. The level of technology can affect the overall cost will vary widely based needs of each person’s needs and financial concerns. Many instruments have user controls for volume adjustment and program changes. Some hearing instruments are compatible with a variety of accessories and other devices, like remote controls and smartphones. We offer a free evaluation and consultation to review all these details and come up with an appropriate recommendation for you.
Are there different styles of hearing aids?
Yes! At Able Hearing we have access to and offer every Style, Make and Model of hearing instrument available. Some fit over the ear and a referred to as BTE, RIC or RITE. Some fit all in the ear and are known as ITE or ITC or Mini Canal. Other devices fit invisibly down in the ear canal out of sight and are usually called CIC or IIC.
How can I find out if I need a hearing aid? How do I know if I have hearing loss?
Hearing loss usually comes on very slowly and is painless, so often as we age our hearing can to diminish without us even realizing. It’s also the 3rd most common physical condition after arthritis and heart disease! In many cases our family members or spouse will notice first, it may be mistaken for aloofness, confusion, personality changes or dementia, and people with hearing loss often find ways to compensate. Maybe others are having to repeat more or it seems like some people mumble or don’t articulate clearly. In some cases, TV shows are harder to understand, maybe you are turning the TV up a little or relying on the captions. You may find that it is difficult to understand people unless they face you or have your attention first. Social activities like dining out and family gatherings can be less enjoyable as the children or other family members are hard to understand. Competing noise may seem to interfere with conversations. If you have noticed any of these occurring, the next step is to schedule a free screening or hearing evaluation. We offer a free hearing evaluation to determine if you have a need for hearing instrument and discuss the various options.
What Is The Main Cause of Hearing Loss?
There are many factors that can contribute to the development of hearing loss, but exposure to loud noise is the most common reason for the condition. Other causes include:
- Heredity
- Chemotherapy and radiation treatments
- Certain antibiotics
- Trauma
- Wax buildup
- Ear and viral infections
Are There Different Types of Hearing Loss?
Yes, there are four different kinds of hearing loss: conductive, sensorineural, mixed and central.
Conductive hearing loss results from problems in either the middle or outer ear or occasionally both. The auditory nerve functions normally, but sound is prevented from reaching the inner ear.
Sensorineural hearing loss is located in the inner ear. The loss of sound sensitivity is the result of damage to the auditory nerve and/or auditory hair-cells.
Mixed hearing loss is the result of a combination of both conductive and sensorineural factors.
Central Hearing Loss, the problem lies in the central nervous system
How Prevalent Is Hearing Loss?
Is It Possible To Be Hearing-Impaired and Not Know It?
Can I Live with Hearing Loss?
How often should I have my hearing tested?
How do I care for my new hearing aids?
Moisture and wax build-up is the culprit for many hearing aid problems — excessive moisture due to high humidity and sweat can cause distortion, static and a host of other problems. To help avoid the time and expense of a manufacturer repair, follow these tips:
- Wipe or brush away any visible wax build-up or debris from the instruments, paying close attention to the small openings where sound goes in or out.
- Leave your hearing device’s battery door open at night to allow air to circulate and dry it out.
- Purchase a hearing aid dehumidifier, a Dri-Aid Kit, or a Dry and Store Box — they are inexpensive, simple to use, and provide a handy storage spot.
- If you perspire heavily, take a moment to remove your hearing aids and wipe off excess moisture with a tissue.
- If you wear behind-the-ear hearing aids, consider a moisture guard.
- Avoid leaving your hearing aids in direct sunlight, glove compartments or environments where excessive heat can build up.
- If your hearing aid isn’t working and you suspect a moisture problem, do not attempt to dry it in the microwave or with a hair dryer; moisture will often evaporate on its own if the device is left open to dry (please see above).
- Avoid using sharp objects to poke the small delicate openings—this often results in unnecessary damage and costly repairs
- If the tubing or other components come apart, call for an appointment this usually needs to be replace by a profession and is often a very low/no cost service
- Should the battery become stuck in the instrument, do not attempt to remove with sharp objects—this often results in unnecessary damage and costly repairs. In many cases a professional can take care of this quickly and prevent further damage.
- Keep replacement batteries on hand.
- Keep hearing aids and batteries out of reach of pets and children.