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Are you thinking about getting hearing aids? Interested in upgrading the ones you have? While advances in technology have improved the performance and variety of hearing aids, they have also significantly increased their cost. Determining what type or brand of hearing aids to buy can be an overwhelming decision. Use the resources below to learn more about hearing aids before you buy them.

FREE BROCHURES

Hearing Aids & Audiology Services: A Sound Solution to Improved Communication

This free brochure answers questions about the signs of hearing loss in both children and adults, how an audiologist can evaluate an individual's hearing and recommend an appropriate course of action. It also discusses what individuals can expect from wearing a hearing aid. The different types of hearing aids and hearing assistive devices, cost and health insurance coverage of hearing aids, and where you can purchase a hearing aid are also included. To order this brochure, call ASHA's toll-free HELPLINE at 1-800-638-8255.

The Three Hearing Aid Technologies

This brochure discusses analog, programmable and digital hearing aids with their advantages and disadvantages. Send a self-addressed, stamped, business-sized envelope to: Mid East Tennessee Regional Speech and Hearing Center, PO Box 258, 391 Main Street, Dayton, TN. 37321

ONLINE READING

There are many places to find information on hearing aids on the Internet. The American Academy of Audiology (AAA) offers several consumer-oriented articles at this page: http://www.audiology.org/consumer/.

For further reading, visit these well-written articles by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) below.

Hearing Aids - http://www.asha.org/hearing/rehab/hearing_aids.cfm

Hearing Aid Myth and Fact - http://www.asha.org/hearing/rehab/aid_myth_fact.cfm

Hearing Aids for Adults - http://www.asha.org/hearing/rehab/adult_aid.cfm

Children and Hearing Aids - http://www.asha.org/hearing/rehab/child_aids.cfm

Digital Hearing Aids: Current "State of the Art" - http://www.asha.org/hearing/rehab/digital_aid.cfm

FINDING AN AUDIOLOGIST

In addition to abiding by a strict Code of Ethics, audiologists have graduate degrees and specialized training in assessing hearing loss and fitting hearing aids. Learn more about why you should buy your hearing aids from an audiologist in this article, "How to Purchase Hearing Aids." http://www.audiology.com/consumer/guides/howtopurchase.php

The AAA also provides a worldwide, accredited audiologist locator at this page: http://www.audiology.org/consumer/faa.php

UNDERSTANDING YOUR AUDIOGRAM

When you have your hearing tested by an audiologist, the results will be charted on an audiogram. At first glance, this confusing paper with a graph, numbers and x's and o's appears to be undecipherable for the average person. As part of your visit, your audiologist should explain how to read your audiogram. However, you may be more comfortable if you already know how to read an audiogram and understand its significance prior to your hearing test. Visit these easy-to-read web pages to learn what the markings on your audiogram means:

How to Read Your Hearing Test - http://www.earinfo.com/howread1.html

Understanding Your Audiogram - http://www.audiology.org/consumer/guides/uya.php

Today, choices abound in hearing aid technology. Review these resources before you make your selection. Learn about the various types of technology and understand your audiogram before your visit to the audiologist. By being a diligent and educated consumer, you can purchase hearing aids with confidence and prevent costly mistakes.