Hearing Direct Blog, News and In The Media

Flashing Phones For The Deaf and Hard Of Hearing

Written by Stuart on May 16, 2012 — Leave a Comment

Deaf or severely hearing impaired people have historically found communication difficult using traditional technology. More recently, s a variety of hearing aids and assistive devices have been developed that focus on providing hard of hearing and deaf people with opportunities to benefit from telephones, mobile and smartphones, watching TV or recognizing doorbell ringing or fire alarms.

These advances have substantially improved the quality of life of this group and helped them cope more easily with their daily routine and socialise with friends and relatives or be alerted in case of emergency.

There are various phones and other devices that are specifically designed for people with a hearing impairment, e.g. amplified phones, amplified doorbells, vibrating pads, extra loud alarm clocks, videophones, textphones, etc. Many of those also have vibrating and flashing features to indicate when a call or a message is incoming or when the doorbell rings.

For the completely deaf, these functions are extremely beneficial as they are the only means they can use to recognize a signal. Fortunately, an abundance of choices exists that fit any preference and budget. For the deaf community there are amplified phones both landline and mobile that have multiple functions that can be of assistance and with the help of a relay service (such as the Text Relay offered by Action on Hearing Loss) to allow a normal conversation.

Another choice takes the form of a textphone or videophone. Many modern smartphones offer video conferencing and text options as a part of their regular functions. As they are small, they can be worn on a strap or in the pocket, thus indicating calls via vibration. In addition, there are many mobile applications available providing and facilitating communication for the hard of hearing.

Flashing corded phones

At hearingdirect.com, you can find a wide range of amplified phones that come with a flashing light to indicate a message or an incoming call. That makes them suitable for people with different degrees of hearing impairment (as the volume and ringer level can be adjusted) as well as for the deaf. Such a telephone is the Amplicom PowerTel 49 or the Geemarc CL210A. Both phones have extra bright ringer indicators and large enough backlit buttons to be helpful for those with visual problems as well such as the elderly.

Flashing cordless phones

Cordless phones are also a popular option as they are very flexible and can be located in every room, the balcony or garden. The Geemarc AmpliDect 280 with its handset shaker function is a good choice along with the Geemarc AmpliDect 350 featuring a vibrating and flashing ringer option.

There are also additional assistive devices available that you can attach to a phone, a doorbell or an alarm to indicate ringing via bright flashing lights. Those include Amplicom Ring Flash 100 that is compatible with the whole Amplicom PowerTel Series or the Sonic Alert TR-75 Visual Telephone Signaler with a lamp on/off button.

Posted in Hearing Information, Product Review

Celebrities Who Wear Hearing Aids

Written by Gary on May 14, 2012 — Leave a Comment

Once wearing hearing aids were perceived as a taboo and many people were reluctant not only to show but also to put on their hearing aids fearing society’s reaction. Fortunately, those times are long gone and with hearing loss being a very widespread problem, many people openly look for a solution and help.

The increased awareness of those with a hearing impairment, the abundance of information and the variety of hearing devices have obliterated the stigma that was once associated with the issue. It has been replaced with guidance and reassurance that hearing loss can be managed and that improving of the lifestyle of many who are hard of hearing can be achieved.

One of the things that help many people come to terms with a hearing loss is the fact that they are notalone. Knowing that others face the same problems and difficulties somehow lessens the fear of being isolated and not understood. Lately, many celebrities and public figures, including singers and actors such as Mick Jagger, Sting, Bryan Adams and Maggie Gyllenhaal, have actively participated in various campaigns that raise awareness of the problem of hearing impairment. The campaigns aim to show concern and possible treatments to a wider audience and show that hearing loss can affect anyone and looking for a solution and wearing hearing aids is one of the best ways to help.

In addition there are also many famous people who have candidly admitted to wearing hearing aids themselves and openly talk about their former fears and the better life they lead after taking the necessary steps to improve their condition. Such confessions often inspire others to take action as well realise that hearing loss can be alleviated and does not have to lead to isolation or frustration. Hearing aid technology is so advanced that there are only a limited number of hearing impairment cases that cannot benefit from any type of hearing aid. The majority of conditions could be improved, with many even having a wide choice of options, as hearing aidsare extremely varied and customizable.

The list of celebrities who suffer from hearing loss and use hearing aids is quite long but some of the most popular include household names Annette Crosbie and Richard Wilson who since discovering their deteriorating hearing have openly talked about it and their experience in overcoming it and the change in their lives after getting hearing aids. TV presenter Anne Diamond has also confessed to having hearing problems along with the star Genevieve Barr from the BBC drama The Silence. Recently the Hollywood star Jodie Foster has also been spotted wearing hearing aids.

Other current celebrities and public figures that have tinnitus or some degree of hearing loss include Bill Clinton, Phil Collins, Pete Townshend, Foxy Brown and many more. These people and their careers show that hearing loss does not need to be an obstacle to achieving dreams and goals and with determination and a proper treatment the difficulties it poses can be overcome.

Posted in Hearing Aids

Hearing Aids Trends In 2012

Written by Ran on May 10, 2012 — Leave a Comment

Hearing aids have come a long way since their invention in the 16^th century, including advancements in the 19^th century and the digital technological breakthrough 15 years ago. Nowadays, hearing aids are offered in a variety of styles, forms and performance levels. The most important achievement, however, is that they are able to meet the needs of the vast majority of hard of hearing and find solutions for people with a mild to profound hearing loss, regardless of their age.

The transformation that hearing aids have undergone through the years is remarkable. They have substantially changed their size to become virtually invisible, use mainly digital technology that provides much more possibilities for a better sound quality which can be applied to conditions that until recently have not been treated with any aid.

The last decade has marked an increasing trend in awareness campaigns and open discussions about the problems of hearing impairment and the opportunities the different hearing aids provide for improvement of the wearer’s lifestyle. Manufacturers compete in developing new and more efficient technologies that will most accurately resemble natural sounds, not just amplify them, and be able to better locate the direction of the sound and decrease feedback and background noise even more.

Modern hearing aids can offer sound quality that was not possible several years ago and still many newer models are improved and equipped with additional features. Hearing aids are becoming hearing systems that interact with all types of devices such as telephones, mobile phones, TVs and MP3 Players allowing wearers to benefit from all of them and communicate effortlessly despite their hearing impairment.

Hearing aid development in 2012 continues the process of creating small and at the same time powerful and durable hearing aids and improving or combining models. An example is the innovative Persona Olé that is a tiny canal aid and at the same time an open fit hearing aid using AirTouch™ Multi-Memory. Persona Olé’s features focus on feedback and background noise management and better speech and music appreciation.

Research is also headed in the direction of providing hearing aids with an even more sophisticated digital sound processing that will be able to recognize all types of sounds and reproduce them simultaneously in a way that will almost completely imitate the human ear.

Hearing aid manufacturers are also trying to find a solution for a wider range of hearing loss types and constantly improve technologies for conditions that require surgical intervention and that can benefit from aids such as cochlear implants and bone anchored hearing aids.

Moreover, the competitive market strives to produce hearing aids that have long lasting batteries that do not need frequent changes and very soon, rechargeable hearing aids may gradually replace the regular zinc-air batteries.

Trends in the hearing aids market for 2012 include mainly efficiency, discreet size and design, improved digital sound and affordable prices and these are expected to convince more people with a hearing loss to try the benefits of hearing aids and to experience the positive influence they will have on daily routines, communication and entertainment.

Posted in Hearing Aids, News

How To Keep a Hearing Aid From Falling Off

Written by Stuart on May 4, 2012 — Leave a Comment

Hearing aids are expensive and in order to preserve them and benefit from them for a long time, special care and attention is needed. As hearing aids are worn by people from all ages and occupations there are a variety of models available to fit every individual hearing impairment condition, preference and lifestyle. Nevertheless, all types of hearing aids should be carefully maintained and protected from dust, moisture and all kinds of damage, including falling off and getting lost.

There are various reasons for a hearing aid to fall out or off your year but there are also many solutions available to avoid the consequences that will follow, as they may be detrimental to your device. In particular the device may fall without being noticed or drop into water.

How to place your hearing aid correctly

It is very important to take care when putting on your hearing aid. When you first buy your hearing aid, you need to make sure you know how to put it in properly. Hearing aids usually come with detailed manuals for use and most have accompanying images showing the right steps of inserting and adjusting the hearing aid to the ear. If you feel unsure, it is best to ask your dispenser or audiologist for more information or assistance.

Once you know how to place your hearing aid, you can put it on and check with a mirror or ask someone to see if it looks correctly inserted. However, regardless of the look, your hearing aid should feel comfortable in your ear. If that is not the case, then you should remove it and put it on again until it fits correctly.

How to avoid your hearing aid falling off

You can protect your hearing aid from falling off in various ways. First, it is good to determine if that happens during a specific activity such as eating, talking or physical exercise. The hearing aid may be loose or moist and can slip out. If needed turn to your audiologist for re-adjustment. If you have a hearing aid with an individual ear mould, a new one may be needed and you should consult with a specialist for a new impression of your ear.

The problem may also be due to an old or wrong sized tubing or dome. You can easily replace these with new ones and find the most suitable size and form for your ear. Silicone domes usually have a life of about three months so it is common for them to need replacement 4-6 times a year.

In addition, it is recommended that you regularly check your ears for earwax build-up as it can prevent the hearing aid fitting correctly.

Practical solutions for keeping the hearing aid in place

There are different accessories that can help you protect your hearing aid. One option is to use toupee tape, sticky pads (such as Stick N Stay) or other adhesives but some of those may cause skin irritation and depending on the chemicals used may cause damage to your device. Another solution is to use retainers (such as Secure N Stay), clips or safety lines (for Baha hearing aids).

Whatever the reason, you should take actions immediately after you sense that you do not feel comfortable or the hearing aid is too loose. Postponing may lead to a loss of the device or damage, both outcomes being costly.

Posted in Hearing Aids

What are CIC Hearing Aids?

Written by Ran on May 2, 2012 — Leave a Comment

CIC stands for Completely In Canal. Completely in the canal hearing aids are the smallest hearing aids that are offered on the market. They appeal to a large number of people due to their very discreet size that allows them to be invisible to the casual observer.

These hearing aids are extremely tiny devices in a plastic shell that contains all the electronics, including the microphone, receiver and battery. CIC hearing aids can use digital, conventional or analogue programmable technology. They are custom made for the individual ear, fit completely inside the ear canal and can be removed with a tiny plastic wire that is attached to their outer part.

Advantages of CIC hearing aids

CIC hearing aids are inserted in the ear canal and stay very close to the eardrum, which allows them to produce an almost natural sound and a loudness boost. Another convenience is that they are very comfortable for glasses wearers. Their biggest advantage, though, is that they are extremely small and no one can notice them, which increases the confidence of many people who are apprehensive about admitting to a degree of hearing loss. Moreover, they can convince those with even mild hearing loss, who find other models too obvious, to try hearing aids and benefit from better hearing.

Disadvantages of CIC hearing aids

However, these hearing aids are not suitable for everyone; only for those who have large enough ear canals to accommodate them. In addition, they can be used by people who suffer from mild to moderate hearing impairment, as they are not powerful enough to support amplification levels for profound hearing loss. There are other issues to consider before buying a completely in the canal hearing aid.

not suitable for people with severe hearing loss
not suitable for people with an excessive earwax buildup and frequent ear infections
not suitable for children due to ear growth
not suitable for people with dexterity problems
have no option for manual volume control due to small size
their small batteries endure less than e.g. BTE hearing aids batteries and demand more frequent replacements
the closeness of the microphone and the receiver may result in more feedback
may cause occlusion (a blocked up sensation)
cannot filter noises at the performance level of other hearing aids
demand greater care and cleaning

Completely in the canal hearing aids are difficult to manipulate so if you need an adjustment you will have to turn to your audiologist. Furthermore, they are not recommended for the elderly, as they can be easily lost due to their tiny size. Moreover, their batteries are very small and every replacement could be challenging and frustrating.

Recently, CIC hearing aids have declined in popularity due to the widespread open fit behind the ear models, which are just as much discreet but have much more amplification power and are suitable for all degrees of hearing loss. In addition, they leave the ear canal open and do not cause blocking up and are less susceptible to damage from earwax or moisture.

Posted in Hearing Aids

10 Most Annoying Noises

Written by Gary on May 1, 2012 — Leave a Comment

Noise is an inevitable part of our everyday lives and unfortunately, it can be detrimental to our hearing. However, as it can be difficult to avoid on occasions, people usually become annoyed and irritable when exposed to it. Various studies around the world have tried to find the reason why some noises and sounds are so unpleasant compared to others. While it is true that annoyance is individual, there are some sounds that can be defined as universally irritating.

The human brain is programmed to protect itself from any harm and to become alert and anxious when it picks up danger. Many sounds of a particular frequency and decibel level are perceived by the brain as a potential attack (such as alarms, sirens or horns) and evoke a sense of emergency. That raises the adrenaline level and increases the heart rate. If the danger is not real, as it is with many noises that we experience every day, this leads to irritation.

The human ear is sensitive to a wide range of frequencies but we hear most sounds in the 2000-4000 Hertz range. While some people may adjust to specific shrill and high pitch sounds and not lose concentration, e.g. at a noisy workplace, these sounds can be detrimental to the ear and can cause tinnitus and hearing loss. That is why it is very important not to tolerate an environment where there is constant noise. When that is unavoidable, the necessary measures should be taken in order to protect one’s hearing.

An experiment conducted by Trevor Cox, a professor of Acoustic Engineering at Salford University, made some interesting findings about the sounds that provoke the most irritation. Some of the most annoying sounds that were voted by the participants included microphone feedback, babies crying and the squeaking sound of a seesaw.

Since the 2010 Football World Cup, vuvuzelas have gathered a substantial amount of resentment. A study conducted by New Scientist found out that vuvuzelas are not only annoying but also very dangerous for hearing. Listening to the sound they produce from 1 meter exposes the ear to 116 decibels. Spending more than 22 seconds in that environment is beyond the allowed work noise level.

Numerous sounds could be defined as irritating depending on the particular individual. Some people find sounds that others make bothersome but do not mind when they make them personally. Below is a list of some of the most common annoying sounds:

Whining
Eating, chewing and slurping
Snoring, sniffing and loud breathing
Mobile ring tones
Alarm clocks and car alarms
Polystyrene rubbed together
Nails or a squeaky chalk against a blackboard
Clicking pens
Dogs barking
Mosquitos and flies

What is important to note is that perception is dependent on personality and very often on mood. It may be surprising to know that many noises (from 1 to 3) are all human actions performed on a regular basis and are more connected to perceived manners and behaviour than to a specific volume or frequency level.

Image by flickr under cc licence.

Posted in Opinion

Common Problems And Solutions For When Using Hearing Aids

Written by Gary on April 25, 2012 — Leave a Comment

Wearing hearing aids is by no means a complicated issue. Nevertheless, sometimes wearers encounter certain problems. Most of them are related to the performance of the device and usually can be easily remedied as they are often caused by battery issues or poor maintenance. Whatever the problem, though, there is always a solution and with the correct identification; you will be able to solve the matter without an inconvenience of time without the aid or waiting for an appointment to see a specialist.

Some of the most common problems with hearing aids and their respective solutions can be found below. However, if the solutions offered do not improve the performance of your hearing device, it is highly advisable that you turn to your audiologist for professional help or to your supplier for replacement if the device is defective and in warranty.

The hearing aid produces no sound

There are various reasons for a hearing aid to appear “dead”. The first thing you should do is to make sure that the device is switched on and that the microphone setting is activated. Then check if the batteries are the right size, if they are correctly inserted and if the compartment door is closed. A depleted battery can cause the hearing aid to stop working so if you notice that, you should replace it immediately as keeping old batteries inside may damage the device.

Another action you can take is to see if the earmould,tubing or microphone ports are clogged up, e.g. with earwax or moisture. If that is the case, you should carefully clean them up and leave them to dry.

The hearing aid makes a “scratchy” sound

It is possible for the hearing aid to make some unusual sounds that resemble scratching or hissing. Most often, those are caused by a collection of dust, lint or moisture. You can remove dust by switching the device on and off a few times. If the hearing aid is moist, you should immediately dry it with a soft tissue, remove the battery and leave the battery compartment open. It is best to use a special dehumidifier for hearing aids.

Sometimes the scratchy sounds are accompanied by the aid going on and off repeatedly. You should check that the batteries are inserted correctly and making the right contact.

The hearing aid makes a “whistling” sound

The common reasons for a whistling sound are a few. First, try to adjust the volume, as it may be too high. Then, check if the hearing aid batteries are weak and need replacement. The problem could be also that your earmould is not inserted in the right way, it is best to take it off and adjust it carefully again.

The sound is distorted or weak

Sound distortion and weakening are not extraordinary with hearing aids. Usually, you need to replace the batteries and check the volume as it may be too high. If that does not help, then look at the tubing and the earmould to see if they are blocked up with moisture or earwax and clean them if necessary. Again, this issue may be caused by a partially blocked microphone port which should be clear of any wax or debris.

Posted in Hearing Aids

How Long Is The Wait For Hearing Aids?

Written by Stuart on April 23, 2012 — Leave a Comment

Getting a hearing aid is a huge step for many. Recognizing your hearing problem and looking for a solution is the best action you can take to improve your lifestyle and confidence and gain more independence. Hearing aids are widely available and offered in a variety of models, designs and colours so you can choose the one that best fits your specific hearing impairment condition and personal taste.

Hearing aids can be purchased privately or many may obtain them free of charge from the NHS. Both options have their advantages and drawbacks in terms of cost, type, availability and waiting time.

Hearing aids from the NHS

Receiving a hearing aid from the NHS, while free of charge, may be a bit lengthy in terms of the application process and waiting time. First, you need to go through a professional hearing test performed by an audiologist to determine the exact type and degree of hearing loss. That usually happens about six weeks after being referred by your GP. Afterwards, you will be recommended a hearing aid that will best suit your condition. You should be aware, though, that the hearing aid types offered by the NHS are much more limited than those you can obtain privately.

Depending on the hearing aid that you obtain, you will have a certain waiting time for fitting; that may last from a few weeks up to three months. Taking into account that some hearing aids need adjustments after you start using them, be prepared to be patient as you may need to wait quite some time before you feel the benefits of your hearing aid.

Hearing aids from a private dispenser

Another option is to purchase your hearing aids from a private dispenser, either from a high street shop or online, with the latter being much more cost-efficient. The hearing aids offered privately cover all types and models that are available on the market so you will be faced with an abundance of choices and have the opportunity to find the perfect hearing aid for you.

An additional advantage of buying your hearing aid privately is that your waiting time will be substantially shortened and you will be able to benefit from your hearing aid much faster. For instance, at Hearing Direct you can have your hearing aid dispatched to your doorstep within 24 hours of the order. As the hearing aids offered on the website do not require taking an impression of the individual ear (as it is with recent models that use open fit technology), you can choose your hearing device, purchase it today and receive it tomorrow.

In case it is not the perfect fit or if you do not feel a significant benefit from your hearing aids you can return them within 30 days and receive a full refund. Moreover, the warranty period covers a whole year and the device is sent with a fresh packet of batteries so you can start using your hearing aid straight away.

Posted in Hearing Aids

Which Hearing Aid Batteries Are The Best?

Written by Ran on April 20, 2012 — Leave a Comment

Hearing aid batteries are an essential part of your hearing aids as they are the engine that makes them work. Using high quality batteries is crucial for the maximum performance of your hearing aid regardless of its model. Although, there is not a battery that can be defined as the best on the market, there are many manufacturers that provide hearing aid batteries of premium quality such as Rayovac, Panasonic, Duracell and Power One, all of which you can find at hearingdirect.com.

Which batteries are suitable for hearing aids?

Batteries that are used for hearing aids come mainly in four sizes for the different devices. Most companies have unified the names and the colours so regardless of the brand if you know either the number or the right colour for your hearing aid you can never buy a wrong battery type. The four sizes are 13 (orange tab), 312 (brown tab), 10 (yellow tab), 675 (blue tab).

Taking care of hearing aid batteries

Providing your hearing aid with good batteries is the first step in guaranteeing that you will benefit most from your hearing device. You should also consider taking care of your batteries so you can prolong their life and performance.

Hearing aid batteries are mainly “Zinc Air” batteries, i.e. the battery is activated when the zinc in it reacts with the air. This type of batterie’s technology allows it to accumulate large amounts of energy. You will need fewer battery replacements and you will enjoy clearer sound. In order to minimise battery depletion before it is put in the hearing aid, each battery is sealed with a tab and only after its removal does the battery become active. However, you cannot preserve it if you put the seal back. That is why it is best to remove the tab when you need to use the battery. In addition, be careful not to mix old and new batteries or keep them among metal objects, because this may result in a foreshortened battery life.

Another reason to take good care of your batteries, besides prolonging their life, is to protect your hearing aid from damage.

Always store your hearing aid batteries at room temperature and do not expose them to extreme heat or cold.
Replace them after you sense that amplification has become diminished or the sound is distorted . Continued use of drained batteries may damage your hearing aid.
Minimize battery depletion by opening the battery door and leaving it to dry overnight.
Always replace batteries with clean hands as any dirt on them may harm your hearing device.

How long do hearing aid batteries last?

Depending on the type of hearing aid – analogue or digital, the total hours it is turned on and the amplification level, batteries can last from a week to a few months. If you are not sure what brand is right for you, try batteries from different manufacturers to help evaluate which suits you and your specific hearing aid use best.

Posted in Hearing Aids

Wearing a Hearing Aid In The Rain

Written by Stuart on April 18, 2012 — Leave a Comment

All hearing aids are complex electronic devices that need special care and careful treatment. Although they are quite robust and are made of plastic or flexible materials for maximum protection, if not treated in the right way, hearing aids can be easily damaged.

One of the most detrimental conditions for your hearing aid is moisture and you should always be extra careful to keep your device away from any sources of moisture. That means it is best to avoid wearing your hearing aid when raining, going swimming, taking a shower, doing heavy exercise that may cause excessive perspiration etc. Getting the hearing aid wet can damage it significantly, especially if you do not take the necessary measures to dry it afterwards. That does not mean you should stay away from water in general – as long as there is no direct contact between the hearing aid and the water the device is safe.

If you happen to be caught in the rain wearing your hearing aid, it is best to remove it and put it in a protective case. If that is not possible, then you should make sure that your head stays dry so no moisture can reach the hearing aid.

Water is corrosive and may interfere with the electrical circuit that actuates the internal components of the hearing aid and cause it to stop functioning.

What should I do if my hearing aid gets wet?

Your hearing aid can get wet in various ways. However, depending on the amount of moisture, if you act quickly, you can save your hearing aid from permanent damage. If a few drops of water accidentally find their way on the casing of the hearing aid, you should wipe them away carefully with a dry cloth or soft tissue. In cases you have to wear your hearing aid in places where there is a risk of moisture you can resort to one of the following:

Have an extra set of water resistant hearing aids if you need to participate in activities that may dampen your hearing aid. Such hearing aids are produced by Rion and Eurion.
Use a protective wrapping for your hearing aids.

If, however, the hearing aid gets thoroughly wet, you can consider some of the proposed solutions:

Use a dehumidifier for hearing aids during the night when you do not wear them. There are plenty of types available and you can ask your audiologist to recommend you some if you are unsure which one to choose. Popular devices are Dry Aid and Dry & Store.
Open the battery door, take out the battery and leave it to dry naturally. You can use a soft tissue to absorb visible moisture. Under no conditions use a hair dryer or put your hearing aid in a microwave or an oven.
Turn to your audiologist for advice or take the hearing aid to a specialist as soon as you can to prevent further or irreversible damage.

Posted in Hearing Aids