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.
Do you have a question about hearing loss?
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and it may be chosen for inclusion on this page.
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