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Tips for Virtual Communication from People with Hearing Loss

In Uncategorized by Ed Kocher, ACA, BC-HIS

Even before COVID-19, virtual meetings were already becoming normal. However, this year, keeping ourselves and those around us safe has changed how we work and socialize in a way that may never go back. Work meetings, doctor’s appointments, therapy sessions and family gatherings have gone virtual. For many with transportation and mobility issues this may be a blessing as it …

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Watching TV with Hearing Aids

In Uncategorized by Ed Kocher, ACA, BC-HIS

In the age of streaming, is there anything better than watching a new binge-worthy show with your family? But for people with hearing loss, this can be a sensitive issue. The volume is rarely loud enough to suit your needs, and if it is, then the people in the room with you complain that the volume is too loud for …

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A Link between Tinnitus, Anxiety, and Sleep Issues

In Uncategorized by Ed Kocher, ACA, BC-HIS

If you have recently been diagnosed with hearing loss it is important to understand that this is a serious disability with far reaching effects. Not only does the condition affect our communication but this increasingly poor communication affects mental and physical health. Often described as a ringing of the ears, tinnitus accompanies this condition. While a ringing in the ears …

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Adults with Hearing Loss at Higher Risk for Unemployment

In Uncategorized by Ed Kocher, ACA, BC-HIS

Nobody wants to feel like their hearing loss limits them – but that can be the unfortunate truth. Untreated hearing loss makes a person vulnerable to other health issues such as depression and anxiety, reduces mobility and earning power, and can make communication and connection difficult.  Even with legal protections available for people with disabilities at the workplace, there is …

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Memory Loss & Psychological Distress with Hearing Loss

In Uncategorized by Ed Kocher, ACA, BC-HIS

If you or a loved one has hearing loss, you’ve started to realize that hearing loss isn’t just about having a hard time hearing. You’ve noticed that you struggle to follow conversations, can’t hear in places with background noise, and don’t enjoy watching TV anymore.  But that’s not all you’ve noticed. You may realize that you’re having a harder time …

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5 Tips for a Successful Virtual Family Reunion

In Uncategorized by Ed Kocher, ACA, BC-HIS

As the holidays approach, many people will be gathering with family and friends virtually more than ever before. Like the majority of social activities this year, a lot of family gatherings will be moving online. But this does not mean that they have to be any less exciting! By making a few adjustments and taking the time to thoughtfully plan, …

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Athletes and Hearing Loss

In Uncategorized by Ed Kocher, ACA, BC-HIS

It might come as a surprise that athletes are at greater risk for hearing loss. These folks are often at peak physical condition, and it is hard to imagine how physical fitness could be related to hearing loss. This relationship comes in at least two different forms.  In the first case, those who engage in team sports often find themselves …

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When to Take a Hearing Test

In Uncategorized by Ed Kocher, ACA, BC-HIS

You use your sense of hearing all day, every day. While our sense of  hearing is so important it is a constant awareness in our life, it also means that sometimes it can be hard to notice gradual or subtle changes to the way we hear.  Although some hearing loss happens dramatically and suddenly, most hearing issues start small and …

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Celebrate World Alzheimer’s Month with a Hearing Test

In Uncategorized by Ed Kocher, ACA, BC-HIS

Did you know that September is World Alzheimer’s Month? Alzheimer’s Disease International uses this month to educate people about Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. They want you to know the facts about Alzheimer’s disease, and recognize the early signs of this disease. World Alzheimer’s Month is also an opportunity to address the stigma of Alzheimer’s and dementia. Everything You Need to …

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The Benefits of Being Social for Older Americans

In Uncategorized by Ed Kocher, ACA, BC-HIS

Being social and having an active social life is a major way we create belonging, grow, and experience joy and happiness. Having healthy relationships and a sense of community helps us understand who we are throughout life and sustains well-being.  Social well-being is just as important, though overlooked, as physical exercise is to nurturing our health. This is particularly important …