Hearing Aids And Assistive Technology

OVERVIEW

UNCG’s Hearing Center offers digital hearing aid services including fitting, programming, cleaning, and repair. Our licensed audiologists use a person-centered approach that takes into account your unique hearing needs. We listen so you can hear better!

HEARING AID SELECTION IS A VERY PERSONAL CHOICE

For many patients, the decision can seem overwhelming given the investment of time, energy, and financial resources. Because there is not a “one size fits all” solution, it is important to work with a team of experts who take the time to learn about your listening needs. Our audiologists work with all six major hearing aid manufacturers (Oticon, Phonak, ReSound, Signia, Starkey, Widex) and offer unbundled hearing aid pricing to accommodate most budgets. 

We also are prepared to answer your question about Over-the-Counter (OTC) Devices so you can make an informed decision about whether about which hearing technology is right for you. Check out the most recent edition of our newsletter, the Hearing Herald (PDF), which includes an informational graphic comparing OTC and prescription-based hearing devices.

A successful hearing aid fitting relies on several factors, which are important to consider during the selection process as well as during the adjustment period.

1. The unique hearing profile of the patient impacts the degree to which hearing aids may be helpful. Because hearing loss is not “normal” at any age, even patients with mild loss may notice improvements such as reduced listening effort.
2. The level of technology can affect the extent to which the hearing aid is beneficial, particularly in more challenging listening situations such as background noise. More advanced technology is designed to be hands-free and can adapt to your surroundings to optimize speech understanding.
3. The professional who fits and programs the hearing instrument has a direct impact on success and satisfaction. Audiologists are the hearing health care providers with the training and expertise to ensure that hearing aids are fit according to best practice standards. The patient’s relationship with the audiologist also is critical to patient satisfaction as this partnership extends beyond the initial hearing aid fitting.
4. Realistic expectations about the benefits of amplification can impact a patient’s success. Hearing aids are designed to provide accessibility to important sound such as speech and alerting signals. 
   
   They should be worn consistently to ensure optimal performance. UNCG audiologists help our patients understand what to expect from hearing aids and offer services to improve communication beyond what hearing aids can provide. We also help to educate patients and their communication partners about how to better manage hearing loss.

ASSISTIVE LISTENING DEVICES

Many patients can benefit from accessories that enhance how hearing aids work in specific listening situations such as when watching television, talking on the telephone, or listening in noisy places. All manufacturers now offer streaming devices that allow patients to use their smartphone or other accessory to send these important signal straight to the hearing aids. To learn more, ask your audiologist about how an assistive listening device may benefit you. Click here to learn more about how assistive technology such as a a telecoil can help you hear better in public venues.

DR. AMY MYERS DISCUSSES OVER-THE-COUNTER HEARING DEVICES

SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT

For an appointment for a free hearing aid consultation, call 336.334.5939. If you already have had a comprehensive hearing evaluation, please bring it with you. To schedule an evaluation at UNCG Speech and Hearing Center, visit our appointments page for more information.

The Center is conveniently located on the campus of UNCG on the third floor of the Ferguson Building. Free parking in an adjacent lot is provided. We look forward to hearing from you!

MANUFACTURING LINKS

• Oticon
• Phonak
• ReSound
• Signia (Siemens)
• Starkey
• Widex