Bands and Channels- these features refer to the ability to adjust hearing aid settings to best fit individual hearing loss needs.  The more bands and channels a hearing aid has, the better it can be programmed to perform for the wearer.

Feedback Cancellation- Recent innovations in hearing aids over the last few years have aimed to eliminate some of the issues that make wearers unhappy with their hearing aids.  One of the biggest of these problems has been annoying whistling called feedback, which can be caused by a number of things, such as hugging a loved one, having the hearing aid brushed by hair or simply being outside on a windy day.  However, new technology has virtually eliminated buzzing and whistling caused by feedback in hearing aids without compromising performance.

Multi-Memory Settings- while a traditional hearing aid simply amplified all sounds, technology has adapted greatly to how the hearing aid should perform in many different environments.  For instance, certain hearing aid settings may perform more appropriately in social settings as opposed to in the car or outside in the wind.  By having multiple memories, hearing aids can switch into different programming settings for optimal performance.

Directional Microphone- the microphone component of a hearing aid amplifies incoming sounds for greater audibility.  In the recent years advancements have been made with the microphone to help it focus on targeted sounds, such as conversations, and reduce background noises.  This directional functionality has proved beneficial for helping ease the struggle of hearing speech in noisy environments.

Telephone Coil/ Compatibility- Many hearing aids today have advanced telephone compatibility.  With Automatic Telephone Solutions, these hearing aids virtually eliminate feedback while automatically adjusting for optimal communication on the telephone.

Wireless Technology- allows the user to connect directly – and wirelessly – to most media devices. TV, radio and computer can be heard in stereo-quality sound directly through the hearing aid.

At Advanced Tech we understand that the rapid advancements in hearing aid technology may make identifying which hearing aid features are right for you.  We want to ensure that every patient gets the right hearing aids to best meet their hearing loss and lifestyle needs.  To start this process we recommend a complimentary hearing evaluation and consultation.  To set up an appointment for you or a loved one simply visit the Contact Us page of our website to request more information and we will be in touch.

Check out our E brochure here: advancedtechhearingaidcenters.ebrochure

Ed Kocher, ACA, BC-HIS
Founder
Certified Audioprosthologist
Board Certified Hearing Instrument Specialist

The Ear Trumpet was about as basic as it gets.  Designed with an appearance alike a trumpet, the user would simply put the small end of the apparatus into their ear and aim the horn at the targeted sound.  It is no wonder having a hearing aid used to be an embarrassing experience.

Another favorite is the Hearing Aid Walking Stick, which essentially was a walking cane with a small ear horn at the top handle.  It did disguise the hearing aid portion well, until the user would hold the cane to the side of his head to help hear.  This seemingly would pose a danger to anyone passing by the user.

In the middle of the century hearing aids began to incorporate electricity to boost amplification with carbon and vacuum tube hearing aids.  These hearing aids were usually carried by the user or worn on the body.  The Radovox vacuum tube hearing aid shown displays the size of many of these early electric hearing aids that users would carry with them as a hearing aid.

Hearing technology then progressed to much smaller sizes for body worn hearing aids.  One popular style in the late 1950′s was the eyeglass hearing aids, which attempted to hide the hearing aid in the eyeglass design.  This was an early style of ear level transistor hearing aids. 

The biggest advancement came at the end of the century as hearing aids switched from analog to digital technology, enhancing the programming and power capabilities to meet individual preferences.  These digital hearing aids also took significant leaps into bettering the technology for custom fitting and behind-the-ear hearing aid styles and have set the stage for the rapid advancements we have seen in hearing aids over the last several years.

Today’s hearing aids provide those in need of hearing assistance with a cosmetically appealing device that is easy to use that utilizes highly innovative technology to provide better hearing experience.  We are lucky to be the benefactors of these advancements from those early hearing aids.  If you are interested to learn more about today’s best hearing aid options for yourself or a loved one, don’t hesitate to simply visit the Contact Us page of our website to request more information and we will be in touch to answer all of your questions or schedule a free appointment.

Check out our E brochure here: advancedtechhearingaidcenters.ebrochure

Ed Kocher, ACA, BC-HIS

For many, there are no sounds of silence.  Instead, even the quietest of moments, such as sleep, can be filled with buzzing, humming or ringing sounds.  This unfortunate condition is called tinnitus and, according to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, it has affected nearly 25 million Americans to date.   Presently, no treatments are available to cure this condition.

Tinnitus is primarily caused by prolonged exposure to loud noises but also can stem from aging, head injuries or side effects from medications.   For many of those afflicted, the impacts can be grave as the perpetual ringing can cause difficulties in concentration and sleeping.  While there are no curable options, different treatments can be used to help ease the suffering from the condition or help reduce the degree to which it is prevalent.   These treatments include counseling to help in coping with the effects of tinnitus, sound therapy using subtle background noises to lessen the effects and hearing aids, in some cases, have been able to help provide relief though amplification of other sounds.

If you or someone you know suffers from ringing in the ears, we at Advanced Tech want to help them evaluate these options to possibly lessen the effects of tinnitus.  We can readily supply more information or schedule a free hearing evaluation and consultation.  Simply go to our Contact Us page to submit your information.

Check out our E brochure here: advancedtechhearingaidcenters.ebrochure

Ed Kocher, ACA, BC-HIS
Founder
Certified Audioprosthologist
Board Certified Hearing Instrument Specialist

For those who have not experienced difficulty hearing in the past, or been examined for hearing problems, it can be difficult to know what to ask during and after a hearing test and evaluation.  The following list of questions may be helpful in gathering information and getting clear answers from our hearing specialist.

1. What kind of hearing loss do I have?
2. What are the results of my hearing tests? What’s my hearing threshold?
3. Are there specific frequencies or types of sound I have more trouble with than others?  
4. What are my treatment options?
5. What can new technology do for my hearing loss?
6. Can I prevent further hearing loss?

 Hearing loss can be prevented by wearing hearing protection that is appropriate for the noise level or activity.  Some common causes of hearing loss are listening to music with earphones or earbuds at a high volume level, attending rock concerts, hunting or target shooting, and workplace noise. 

 We encourage everyone to be alert to any signs of hearing loss in themselves or loved ones, and take the necessary steps to avoid further loss in the future.  To make an appointment for yourself or a loved one visit our Contact Us page and enter your information.  We will be in touch to schedule an appointment.

 Check out our E brochure here: advancedtechhearingaidcenters.ebrochure

Ed Kocher, ACA, BC-HIS

Hearing loss in teenagers is on the rise, and recent reports about the increase in hearing problems among teenagers serve as a reminder that one can experience difficulty hearing at any age. Early hearing loss treatment is key to minimizing long-term impact for children, teens and seniors alike. However, hearing loss symptoms may vary greatly between different age groups, and it is helpful to know what to look for if you suspect a loved one has hearing loss.

Teenagers often seem to be in their own world, not paying attention to what’s happening at home or in school.  But when teens are truly having trouble hearing you, it’s time to take action.  Teens who have been exposed to loud music over a period of time may complain of ringing in the ears (also known as tinnitus) or of a sensation of fullness, as if their ears are plugged.  Hearing loss can also be caused by ear infections or trauma, and it’s important to get to the bottom of the problem quickly if you suspect your teen has a hearing problem.  For infants, children and teens, even minor hearing loss can make communication difficult, and can have long-lasting consequences.  A child’s self-image may be negatively affected by hearing loss, their ability to learn may be compromised, and children with hearing loss may experience difficulty developing social skills.

Signs of hearing loss in older adults are often wrongly attributed to other age-related issues such as dementia.  Forgetfulness may be a sign that your loved one has simply missed part of a conversation due to a hearing problem. If an older adult communicates well in one-to-one conversations, but has difficulty hearing in a group situation, hearing loss may be to blame. Finally, if a older person who was once engaged and socially active becomes withdrawn, irritable or inattentive, chances are strong that they are suffering from hearing loss and should be seen by one of our hearing specialist.

To learn more about signs of hearing loss and treatment, or to arrange for a free hearing screening, call or contact us by filling out our information on our Contact Us  page.

Check out our E brochure here: advancedtechhearingaidcenters.ebrochure

Ed Kocher, ACA, BC-HIS
Founder
Certified Audioprosthologist
Board Certified Hearing Instrument Specialist

Myth:  Hearing aids are too big and are too noticeable when worn.

Fact:  While previous hearing aids may have been large and clunky, today’s hearing aids are drastically different in size and cosmetic appeal.  In fact, many of the behind-the-ear hearing aids needed by those with more significant hearing losses have won multiple industrial design awards in the consumer electronics category for their stylish design and ease-of-use.  Also, there are small hearing aids that are nearly invisible* when worn deep in your ear canal.

Myth:  Hearing aids only work in quiet settings and can’t help in noisy situations with background noise.

Facts:  Vast improvements in hearing aid technology have been made even in the last few years to help make hearing in noisy environments effortless.  With today’s technology from Starkey, a hearing aid will intuitively seek out speech to amplify it, all while compressing background noises and conversations.  This allows for conversations in social settings to be easy and enjoyable again.

Myth:  Hearing aids are too expensive.

Fact:  Actually, hearing aids today not only come in an array of sizes and styles but also with several levels of technology and many affordable options.  The level of hearing aid technology you will want will depend first upon recommendations from your hearing examination but also your lifestyle needs.  Many patients who have only moderate hearing losses may opt for a more sophisticated hearing aid because they need performance in large group meetings or in social settings.  On the contrary, some individuals with significant losses opt for a hearing aid that gives them performance in only a few environments of concern such as in church, hearing on the phone and in listening to television.  We are glad to review our pricing ranges and payment plan options to ensure you get a hearing aid, if needed, which satisfies both your budgetary and lifestyle needs.

We hope that if you or a loved one struggle with a hearing loss, early consideration can be given to evaluating hearing aid options.  With affordable and reliable technology available, no one should have to go a day without better hearing.  Interested to learn more or schedule a free hearing examination?  Simply request an appointment by entering your information on our Contact Us page and we will be in touch to help you get started.

                                                                                                  *Level of invisibility may vary

Check out our E brochure here: advancedtechhearingaidcenters.ebrochure

Ed Kocher, ACA, BC-HIS

The sounds of the holidays; joyous music, lively conversation and family gatherings are a cherished part of every holiday season. But if a loved one has trouble hearing in crowded, noisy situations, or suffers any degree of hearing loss, the holidays may lose some of their luster.

A person with hearing loss symptoms may have difficulty hearing the higher pitched tones of children’s (and women‘s) speech. Missing out on a grandchild’s recitation of a wish list, or not being able to contribute to a family conversation about holiday memories, can be frustrating for both the person suffering from hearing loss, as well as family members who may not be aware of the hearing problem.

There are ways to help a loved one with hearing problems enjoy the holiday season. It takes observation, awareness and a healthy dose of patience – communication skills that are useful year round- but may be even more important when families and friends gather to celebrate.

• Be sure the person is paying attention before you speak.
• Speak face-to-face, never from a different room or from behind.
• Dimly lit situations make it difficult to see facial expressions. Try to have conversations in areas with good lighting like a kitchen or near a window.
• While speaking, avoid activities like smoking or chewing that make lip reading difficult.
• Speak at a natural pace and volume level.
• Try to reduce background noise. Even people who wear hearing aids may have difficulty hearing in noisy situations.

 The holidays often provide the perfect opportunity for a heartfelt family discussion about health concerns. Recognizing the causes and types of hearing loss can help pinpoint the problem, and rule out other medical issues.

With the support of family, a person with hearing problems may be more able to accept the need to get hearing loss treatment, and may be ready to take the first steps to better hearing – a hearing test, and, if necessary, hearing aids.  What a great gift to give a loved one (or yourself) this holiday season! 

Avoid unnecessary frustrations this Holiday season. Make your appointment by simply visiting our Contact Us page to request a free hearing test.  We look forward to helping make your season free from struggles with hearing loss and full of joy.

Check out our E brochure here: advancedtechhearingaidcenters.ebrochure

Ed Kocher, ACA, BC-HIS
Founder
Certified Audioprosthologist
Board Certified Hearing Instrument Specialist

Some of the most common indicators of hearing loss include:

* Turning up the volume of the television or radio

* Problems hearing the doorbell or the telephone ringing

* Difficulty hearing people calling from behind, or in another room

* Asking people to repeat themselves frequently

* Misunderstanding or “forgetting” what has been said or agreed upon

* Cupping hands behind the ears

A person with normal hearing can hear quiet sounds, medium and loud sounds that vary from low pitch to high pitch. In speech, soft consonant sounds like T, S and F are higher pitched than strong vowel sounds such as A, E and I. With hearing loss, it is difficult to differentiate between these sounds, and speech becomes harder to comprehend and sounds garbled.

If you, a friend or a family member are displaying any of these symptoms, we at Advanced Tech Hearing Aid Centers encourage you to take the simple first step and visit us for a free hearing examination by submitting your information on out Contact Us page.  Don’t miss out on the sounds you can be hearing.

Check out our E brochure here: advancedtechhearingaidcenters.ebrochure

Ed Kocher, ACA, BC-HIS
Founder
Certified Audioprosthologist
Board Certified Hearing Instrument Specialist

The arrival of fall brings a sense of anticipation to sportsmen and women who enjoy hunting. Chances are, you started thinking about the season some time ago – maybe even made a checklist of everything you’ll need before heading out for the woods or water. New gun case? Check. Goose call? Check. Hearing protection?  Not on the list? If you haven’t used hearing protection for hunting in the past, you may already have some degree of hearing loss.  Early treatment for existing hearing loss is critical, and there are steps you can take to avoid further damage.    

There are many types of hearing loss, but the most common type, and the type suffered most frequently by sportsmen and women, is known as sensorineural hearing loss.  Sensorineural hearing loss occurs when inner ear nerves are damaged and do not properly transmit sound signals to the brain. Your inner ear contains tiny hair cells, and prolonged exposure to loud noises like a shotgun or rifle close to the ear can cause these hair cells to wither. Without these hair cells, the ear cannot detect sounds properly.

Sensorineural hearing loss can also be caused by an injury, illness, medications or the aging process, but exposure to loud noise is one of the most common causes.  As a hunter, you may rely on your hearing many times during a day on the trail or in a blind – to locate game, to connect with your hunting party, or perhaps to listen for road noise to find your way back to your vehicle.  Specialty earmold hearing protection is available that allows for normal hearing when worn but compresses the loud sounds of gunfire to avoid hearing damage.  Also, new digital hearing aids are designed for all types of listening situations – even outdoor activities such as hunting – and can be worn with hearing protection to enhance and protect your hearing. 

If you’re an avid hunter, trap shooter or simply enjoy the firing range, and haven’t been careful about hearing protection in the past, now is the time to start.  Have your hearing checked by one of our specialists before heading out this season, and if hearing aids are recommended for your type of hearing difficulty, don’t delay in getting fit.  Simply visit our Contact Us page to request a hearing test, to protect your hearing in the field and continue to enjoy your favorite fall pastime for years to come.

Check out our E brochure here: advancedtechhearingaidcenters.ebrochure

Ed Kocher, ACA, BC-HIS
Founder
Certified Audioprosthologist
Board Certified Hearing Instrument Specialist