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?
Research and development is constantly being invested in at all the major manufacturers, which means that new hearing technology is made available on a very regular basis. Typically, we see new products and features coming out every 6-12 months. This is why our hearing specials and staff attend hours of training and continuing education every year, in order to stay up-to-date on all the new technology available.
How can i care for my hearing aid?
Wax and moisture build-up in the openings on the hearing instruments are the number one cause of failure of the internal components. Brushing out the openings on the instrument regularly with a soft brush are the best way to keep them free of debris and build up. A soft cloth can also be used to wipe the hearing instruments regularly. A small wire-loop cleaning tool may have come with your hearing instruments. This can be used to gently remove wax or debris from the openings. Damage can be easily inflicted to the instrument if this tool is used too aggressively. Hatpins, paper clips, tooth picks or other sharp objects should not be used. No liquids–water, chemicals or cleaners should be used. A prepackaged alcohol prep pad can be used to disinfect a hearing instrument for someone being treated for an ear infection. In this case it is important to leave the hearing aid out of the ear as much as possible for the treatment to be effective and the ear to dry out.
How can I adjust to my new hearing aids?
Similar to if you were to obtain a new pair of prescription glasses, there will be a period of adjustment needed to adapt to new sounds. This will include a change in environmental sounds around you as well as a change in the way your own voice sounds to yourself. The amount of change you will need to adapt to will vary significantly depending on whether it is a first experience with hearing instruments or replacing an existing system. In most cases we will apply your correction in small weekly stages to make this adaption process easier. Although a new hearing instrument may feel tight or full in the ear it should not make your ear sore. Any soreness in the ear should be reported immediately so we can schedule a modification.
What questions should i ask before buying a hearing aid?
When choosing a hearing system, it is as important to choose a provider that has the expertise and experience in selection and fitting them as it is choosing the make, model, style itself. Find out what kind of experience the provider has. How long have they been fitting hearing instruments? Do they have different brands available or primarily just one or two? Do they recommend mainly one style or brand for everyone or do they carefully assess the needs of each individual? How do they verify or validate the fitting is adequate? What kind of follow-up do they expect to provide? Just one or two visits or to they have a plan for your long-term care? Is a long-term care plan included and planned for or is that extra? Is a long warranty and batteries provided? Are regular checkups provided? Can the instruments be serviced elsewhere or are you required to come back to the same place for warranty, adjustments and repairs? Is home-service an option for non-drivers? Does the provider make regular visits to your Retirement Community or Care Home?
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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

You can read more on our Hearing Health Page

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

You can read more on our Hearing Health Page

How Prevalent Is Hearing Loss?
Hearing loss is quite common. It currently affects over 30 million people in the United States alone. That’s one in ten! It is more common as we age, half of the people over 65 have a measurable hearing loss. So, don’t be embarrassed by or try to hide your hearing loss. It’s a common condition and is treatable.
Is It Possible To Be Hearing-Impaired and Not Know It?
Yes. Because of the gradual nature of hearing loss and the absence of pain, many individuals affected by it do not realize the severity of their situation. In many cases your family and loved ones will notice it first. If you suspect you or a loved one may have a hearing problem, it’s best to get a hearing screening before the condition worsens.
Can I Live with Hearing Loss?
Yes, it’s possible to live with untreated hearing loss, but ignoring the problem puts you at risk of developing psychological issues, such as isolation, frustration and depression, and medical concerns, as an increased likelihood of Cognitive Disorders, risk of falling, and hospitalization. Also, living with untreated hearing loss makes communication with friends, family, and business contacts difficult, which leads to a decrease in the quality of your life and an increase in strain on relationships.
How often should I have my hearing tested?
Hearing health is tied to whole body health so we recommend coming in for a baseline hearing test at 55 and continuing with yearly screenings, especially if you have hearing loss. If you are wearing hearing aids, testing your hearing once a year monitors any change in your hearing and assures that the settings on your hearing aids are current.
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.