What is an audiogram?
An audiogram is a graph that represents how well a person hears at different frequencies. The "shape" of an individual's audiogram will vary based on the type of hearing loss and the severity, as well as whether the hearing loss is present in one or both ears.
What is the difference between a hearing screening and a hearing evaluation?
A hearing screening is a very basic "Pass/Fail" hearing test that is used to indicate whether or not a hearing loss may be present. A hearing screening is not performed in a sound-proof room and generally only takes about 10 minutes to perform. These are generally the hearing tests you will find at health fairs or other on-site events. If an individual “fails” the hearing screening, they will likely receive a recommendation to have a full hearing evaluation performed to confirm whether or not a hearing loss is present.
A hearing evaluation is much more comprehensive and includes a series of different tests that can identify whether or not hearing loss is present, and also determine the extent of the hearing loss and the type of loss present. A hearing evaluation is generally conducted in a sound-proof booth and can take up to an hour to perform.
Are assistive devices or hearing aids covered by insurance?
In most cases, assistive devices for individuals with hearing loss are not covered by insurance since most insurance companies do not consider these devices to be medically necessary. Unfortunately, most insurance companies do not cover the cost of hearing aids either.
However, Medicare, Medicaid and many insurance companies will provide coverage for a hearing evaluation, and may also provide coverage for professional services such as aural rehabilitation. Many insurance companies have also begun to offer coverage for cochlear implant surgery.
How can I make my hearing aids last longer?
Although hearing aids are really very durable considering that they are meant to be worn all day, every day for at least 3-5 years, there are some things you can do to make them last as long as possible. The most frequent cause of hearing aid problems is moisture. You can help to keep moisture away from your hearing aids by using a hearing aid dehumidifier regularly, such as the Dry & Store, protecting them against rain and snow when outside, using a hearing aid sweatband during hot days or strenuous activities, and not putting them in during your morning routine until you have thoroughly dried your hair as well as the skin in and around your ears. Other tips include cleaning your hearing aids on a daily basis to keep them free of any debris, being careful not to drop your hearing aids, and keeping them away from animals and small children.
How long should hearing aid batteries normally last?
Although many factors can affect battery life, the average time that a hearing aid battery will last is 7-14 days based on 16 hours of use per day. Generally, the smaller the battery size, the shorter the battery life.
What is a telecoil or t-coil?
A telecoil is a specific feature included in some, but not all, hearing aids that can be used to help improve clarity and reduce background noise in certain situations. When the telecoil program is turned on whether by switch, button or automatically, it activates the induction device within the hearing aid and enables the aid to pick up electromagnetic signals from other technology such as amplified telephones or assistive listening devices and convert these signals into sound. For example a telecoil-equipped hearing aid can pick up the electromagnetic signal from the telephone receiver of a hearing aid compatible telephone. This direct "coupling" allows for clearer understanding over the telephone and eliminates both feedback and background noise.
Other examples of electromagnetic conductors are neckloops, silhouettes and hearing aid compatible headsets, all of which can be used with assistive listening devices such as FM or infrared systems as well as electronic devices such as portable CD players, radios and computers. Having a telecoil can increase the usefulness of your hearing aid and provide more listening options without having to rely on headphones or increased amplification.
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