The human ear is a very complex system, converting sound waves into electrical impulses that are translated by the brain into sounds. If this complex system is damaged due to aging, disease, tinnitus, an accident, or damage caused by loud noises, sounds can become harder to hear. For some people, hearing day-to-day noises is a constant struggle. Others may not even realise their hearing is affected.
If you struggle to hear loved ones, are constantly turning up the TV, hear ringing in your ears, or other such symptoms then it is likely you suffer from some degree of hearing loss.
In this guide to hearing we look at what sound is and how the human ear translates it to our brain, what hearing loss is, how much hearing aids cost, and how hearing aids can change your life for the better.
How Does the Human Ear Hear?
Sound is a series of vibrations that our ears pick up and convert into electrical impulses that our brain then translates into useful information. There are three parts of your ear that play integral roles in managing and translating these vibrations, the Outer Ear, Middle Ear and Inner Ear. Read more about hearing.
What is Hearing Loss?
Hearing loss is the loss of clarity and loudness in hearing the sounds around you. If you’ve ever had a cold you may have felt “a bit deaf” from fluid in your ears blocking the noises around you. Diving and flying are common culprits for affecting your hearing. In these cases, your hearing will likely return to normal in a matter of hours or days. For others, hearing loss is a result of something more long term such as aging, disease or tinnitus and can only be treated by wearing hearing aids. Read more about hearing loss.
How Can Hearing Aids Help?
A hearing aid is an amplifier that will amplify sound frequencies that you struggle to hear. To find out what these frequencies are, you take an audiogram or hearing test which will provide detailed information on your unique hearing loss. You can then decide on the most appropriate hearing aid to suit you and your life. You will be amazed by the difference in your hearing and the improved quality of life it will bring to you. Wearing hearing aids to manage your hearing loss is a lot like wearing glasses to manage short or far sightedness. Read more about how hearing aids can help.
What are the Types of Hearing Aids?
With advancements in technology, there are amazing hi-tech hearing devices with features to suit everyone. Some hearing aids are so small they fit entirely in the ear canal. Others sit comfortably behind the ear. Most hearing aids are now sophisticated digital computers offering breakthrough new features such as the award winning AirTap technology that lets you simply pat your ear to change channel. Some hearing aids feature technology such as Telecoil, which lets you connect to hearing loops in public places and to Bluetooth via a neck-loop/remote. Read more about the types of hearing aids.
How Much do Hearing Aids Cost?
The cost of your hearing aids will depend on several factors, including who you buy them from, whether you need 1 or 2 hearing aids, and what features you would like. It also depends on the level of your hearing loss to which hearing aid is going to best suit you. Hearing aids can range in price from $3,000 – $10,000. If you are a New Zealand resident, you may be eligible for funding or a subsidy to buy your hearing aids. Hearing True are a WINZ approved provider. Read more about the cost of hearing aids.
Where Can I Buy Hearing Aids?
If you’re in the market for hearing aids, its a good idea to take your time in deciding where to buy your hearing products from. It may seem easy to just buy direct from your audiologist, however a bit of shopping round could save you thousands. Don’t forget to do your research on other options however, as some online stores will sell you poor quality, bulk manufactured aids imported from China. Read more about where you can buy hearing aids.
What is a Hearing Loop?
If your hearing aid features Telecoil technology, you will be able to connect into hearing loops to help you better hear the speaker at the event, conference or other social venue you are attending. This is done via a microphone, amplifier and loop cable. Not all venues and events include hearing loops however, so it’s best that you check beforehand whether a hearing loop will be available for you to use. Read more about what a hearing loop is.
Hear Better. Live Better.
