audiology_first

Beyond the Ears: How Hearing Health Impacts Your Overall Well-being

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 14:57:00 GMT

We’ve all been there…leaning in a little closer at a noisy dinner table, or smiling and nodding when you actually couldn’t hear what was said. It’s easy to think of hearing changes as a simple volume problem that can be managed by just turning up the TV. In reality, our hearing is more integral; it’s part of how we connect, think, and move through our daily lives.

The team at Audiology First has a saying, that hearing care is brain care . Because hearing is part of your whole-person health, it is deeply tied to your confidence, your communication, and your long-term quality of life.

Let’s explore this a little more and show you exactly why that is.

Your Brain Works Harder When Hearing is Harder

When your hearing isn’t quite what it should be, the brain has to work overtime in order to compensate. Instead of easily processing a clear sound, it has to spend a significant amount of effort to decipher something it could just barely make out. It’s like trying to read a book with every third word missing! You’ll figure it out, your brain will fill in the gaps, but it takes a lot more concentration.

Your brain is already the master of energy consumption. In fact, up to 20% of the calories used to maintain your body are used by the brain, despite it being only 2% of your body weight! When you feel exhausted after a long day of socializing, even though you didn’t do much physical activity, this is why!

What does this mean in relation to hearing problems? Well, resources that would’ve otherwise been used on memory, focus, and following the nuances of conversation are going to be used up by this extra strain.

We often blame ourselves for being tired at the end of a day, but we don’t often consider the massive cognitive load that we have to manage throughout it. This becomes even more poignant for someone with hearing troubles.

The Link Between Hearing and Cognition

You may have seen different news items connecting hearing loss to cognitive decline. As audiologists, we want to make sure the wording around this is clear and evidence-based: we don’t say hearing loss causes dementia, but research has shown that untreated hearing loss is associated with an increased risk of dementia.

An interesting study from Johns Hopkins Medicine found that this increased risk exists across mild, moderate, and severe levels of hearing loss. Understanding this connection isn't meant to cause fear; rather, it highlights why being proactive about your hearing is such a vital part of protecting your long-term brain health.

The Mental and Emotional Side of Hearing Health

Hearing isn’t just biological, it’s also emotional. Struggling to communicate or understand the communication of others can often lead to cycles of frustration, stress, and even embarrassment. These are common scenarios people with hearing trouble will find themselves in:

Avoiding their favourite places because the background noise is too overwhelming
“Listening fatigue”, where you feel mentally drained after group interactions
Repeating the word “what?” so much that you eventually stop asking, even if you don’t fully understand

Understanding the above helps us get a clearer picture for how connected our hearing is to the rest of our day-to-day activities.

Social Engagement and the "Hidden" Withdrawal

When communication changes, our social environment changes

And it’s not something that happens overnight.

Social withdrawal, for example, is usually a gradual process where a person starts to behave in a way that excludes them from normal happenings among friends, family, and even their intimate partner.

This is an extremely important topic, because social isolation may be one of the pathways through which hearing difficulties influence broader cognitive outcomes. While the exact link can be hard to pinpoint, what we know for sure is that staying socially active is a meaningful way to support your brain. We’re humans, and we all need connection and interaction.

Why Early Attention Matters

If we can address changes in your hearing early, we’re able to formulate a road map that is both clear and empowering. The longer we wait, the more complicated things tend to be. At Audiology First, we believe hearing care is about more than just devices. Our model focuses on:

Evidence-based diagnostics to understand the why behind your hearing changes
Comprehensive counseling and education for you and your family
Rehabilitation-oriented care that supports you long after your first appointment

We’re a team, and we’re with you for the long-term!

What a Holistic Hearing Assessment Reveals

A comprehensive hearing evaluation is more than just a pass or fail -type screening. We explore the specific causes of your hearing loss, how it is likely to progress, how it impacts you as an individual, and (most importantly) how we can address it to start improving your quality of life today.

What a Holistic Hearing Assessment Can Help You Understand

When we look at hearing health holistically, we see how it supports every part of your well-being:

Cognition: It reduces cognitive load and supports how your brain manages resources.
Mental Well-being: It reduces the frustration, fatigue, and stress associated with “missed” communication.
Communication: It enhances your ability to follow fast-paced or group conversations.
Social Connection: It helps prevent isolation by making social environments enjoyable again.

Caring for your hearing is a fundamental part of caring for the whole person. It supports your connection to others, your confidence in social settings, your cognition, and your overall quality of life.

If you or a loved one have noticed changes in your hearing, conversation effort, or social engagement, we are here to provide clarity and encouragement.

Book a comprehensive hearing assessment with Audiology First today to take a proactive step toward your long-term health well-being!

Auracast™ and the Future of Audio Streaming for Hearing Aids

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 15:39:01 GMT

For many people with hearing loss, navigating through public spaces often means missing out on everyday moments that most of us take for granted.

Imagine this…

You’re standing in a crowded airport, straining to hear a gate change announcement over the roar of the terminal.

Or perhaps, you are at a sports bar, trying to enjoy a game with your friend, but you’re left feeling isolated because you can’t actually hear the commentary coming from the TV.

This can leave a person feeling disempowered, discouraged, and even hopeless. Technology, however, is constantly advancing, and there’s a new piece of equipment that is starting to hit the market and make a real difference in people's lives.

It’s name, is Auracast™.

We’re going to explain what Auracast™ is, how it works, and how it will change the future of audio streaming for hearing aid users. Audiology First has always been a leader for the latest tech in hearing aid investments, and we’re excited to help our patients navigate these new opportunities.

What is Auracast™ Broadcast Audio?

Auracast™ is a new Bluetooth® capability that allows a single transmitter (such as a television, your smartphone, or even a public announcement system) to broadcast high-quality audio to an unlimited number of nearby receivers. This will include compatible hearing aids, earbuds, and headphones.

An easy way to conceptualize this is like your very own personal radio station. In your car, you can tune the radio into a specific frequency carrying a specific channel. Auracast™ allows you to “tune in” in a similar way; specific audio streams available in a public venue, directly to your hearing device.

This technology is built upon the advanced Bluetooth LE Audio standard, which provides better sound quality with significantly lower battery consumption.

How is Auracast™ Different from Current Systems?

Public venues currently use Assistive Listening Systems (ALS). Examples of these include hearing loops (telecoils), FM systems, or infrared systems to help those with hearing loss. They’ve been helpful, but they have their limitations. Some of which Auracast™ has been designed to overcome.

Nick Hunn, a physicist, engineer, and wireless technology specialist is uniquely positioned to address some of these barriers.

As the Chief Technology Officer of WiFore (a wireless technology analysis and design firm), and a key contributor to the technological foundation of Auracast™, he has been a driving force in the development of the Bluetooth® LE Audio standards that are now making this vision of inclusive audio a reality.

“While current assistive listening systems, such as inductive loops, have been providing great benefit to people with hearing loss, they suffer from a number of challenges that have limited their deployment, including poor quality, high cost, and lack of privacy.” —Nick Hunn, CTO of WiFore

One of the most significant shifts is the removal of “equipment stigma”; users will no longer have to borrow bulky, specialized receivers from the public spaces. The introduction of a BYOD (bring your own device) model will help people with hearing loss to maintain autonomy and comfort, without feeling singled out, among the public.

Here is a simple table to outline some of the key differences between traditional systems and Auracast™ broadcast audio:

Unlocking Audio in Airports, Theaters, and Beyond

There are so many potential applications, scenarios, and environments that Auracast™ is slated to revolutionize for people with hearing loss:

Airports: Tune into gate announcements or the audio of a specific news channel playing at your gate.
Theaters & Conferences: Receive crystal-clear audio directly from the presenter’s microphone; you could even choose a dedicated channel for real-time language translation.
Gyms & Waiting Rooms: Listen to the audio from any of the muted TVs on the wall without disrupting others.
Museums: Access guided tour audio directly through your hearing aids without needing a separate headset.

While these are just a few examples, there’s really no limit to its future development, application, and capacity.

When Can I Expect Auracast™?

The future is closer than you think. While widespread adoption may take some time (experts estimate it could be anywhere from 2 to 10 years for global Auracast-compatibility ), some of the latest hearing aids, like Oticon Intent and Zeal models, already come equipped with Auracast™-ready hardware.

Global standards for the technology and its use are projected to be fully-established by late 2027.

What You Can Do Now:

Talk to your audiologist: Our team at Audiology First works hard to stay at the forefront of the industry, and we can help you determine if your current lifestyle would benefit from this exciting new technology.
Consider “Dual-Tech” devices: For people who have significant hearing loss, it’s recommended they look into hearing aids that offer both traditional, telecoil systems, as well as Auracast™. This allows such individuals to access both systems; ready for today, prepared for the technology of tomorrow.

Check your phone: Ask your provider if your current smartphone is compatible with the Bluetooth LE Audio standard required for Auracast™.

Curious if new hearing aid technology like Auracast™ is right for you? The world of hearing technology is advancing quickly, and the expert team at Audiology First is here to help you navigate it.

Contact Audiology First today to book a consultation. We’ll help you understand your options and find the best solution for your unique hearing needs and lifestyle!

The Rise of AI in Hearing Aids: What to Expect in 2026 and Beyond

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 15:52:26 GMT

For decades, hearing aid technology focused primarily on one goal: making sounds louder. While effective art first, this "one-size-fits-all" approach would often struggle in complex environments, such as crowded restaurants or being outside in the wind.

Today’s modern landscape is shifting the paradigm. Hearing aids are no longer just amplifiers; they are sophisticated, wearable computers . Artificial Intelligence (AI) has allowed these devices to move beyond simple volume control and become intelligent, adaptive systems that sync perfectly with your day-to-day life.

What is AI in Hearing Aids?

In simple terms, AI allows a hearing aid to think and learn in ways not-so-unsophisticated!

Rather than relying on a static set of rules, AI-powered devices analyze sound data in real-time to make decisions. There are two primary technologies driving this:

Machine Learning (ML):

This allows the device to learn from your specific preferences. If you consistently turn the volume down in a specific environment, the hearing aid can remember and automate that change for you!

Deep Neural Networks (DNN)

This is the gold standard of AI. DNNs is trained on millions of real-world sound samples (like voices, traffic, music, and background noise). It mimics the way that our human brains process sound. This allows the hearing aid to recognize and prioritize speed, while at the same time suppressing noise that is superfluous, unnecessary, and distractive.

The AI Revolution: Key Features

Here is how AI hearing aids are changing the lives of our patients at Audiology First:

1. Real-Time Sound Personalization

Traditional hearing aids required users to manually toggle through programs (they used to have things like "Restaurant Mode" or "Music Mode"). With AI, the device makes millions of micro-adjustments every second, scanning the environment and adjusting sound levels intuitively.

2. Automatic Environment Adjustments

Using advanced acoustic sensors, AI hearing aids can detect the specific nuances of your surroundings. Whether it’s identifying the hum of an air conditioner or the clattering of dishes, the AI isolates these sounds and separates them from the human voices you want to hear. This mitigates the amount of listening effort , leaving you with more energy and less strain.

3. Health Monitoring & Safety

The hearing aid is no longer a unidimensional device, it is a multi-functional health tool. Two things contribute to this; we wear hearing aids consistently throughout the day, plus they sit close to the brain. This positions them perfectly for overall wellness tracking. Here’s what modern AI hearing devices are offering:

Fitness Tracking: Counting steps and monitoring activity levels.
Fall Detection: Sensors in some hearing aids can detect if a wearer has fallen and automatically send alerts with the user's location to emergency contacts.
Cognitive Health: Some devices even monitor "brain tracking" metrics, showing how much social engagement the user is getting (a key factor in preventing cognitive decline).

Beyond Hearing: The Future of AI

Looking further into 2026 (and beyond), the capabilities of these devices are only going to expand. We are already seeing the beginnings of real-time language translation , where your hearing aids can actually translate a foreign language directly into your ears as someone speaks!

As things get more integrated, our hearing aids will likely “talk” to our entire home; the doorbell, your phone, and even your smart thermostat will have direct communication with each other…via your hearing aids!

The Difference At Audiology First

While the technology inside these devices is incredibly powerful, it is only as effective as its programming. AI is a tool, but the human ear and brain are unique to every individual. This is why having a skilled audiologist as part of your healthcare team is essential…

Audiology First combines the latest cutting-edge AI technology with evidence-based clinical care. As Lethbridge’s local hearing experts, we understand that a proper fitting requires more than just an algorithm; it requires a personalized and professional touch.

Ready to experience the future of sound?

Book your appointment with Audiology First today to schedule a demonstration of the latest AI hearing aid technology and discover how personalized hearing care can transform your health!

Are Your Earbuds Damaging Your Hearing? | What You Need to Know About Safe Listening

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 17:26:49 GMT

Walk through your local downtown, step onto a transit bus, or visit any gym, and you’ll see one thing in common: almost everyone is wearing earbuds. Staying “connected” is the name of the game these days. People have a hard time passing up any opportunity to plug in and tune out.

But there is a hidden cost to this constant connection.

The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that over 1.1 billion young people worldwide are at risk of permanent hearing loss due to unsafe listening practices.

Audiology First has a mission that goes beyond selling hearing aids. We are dedicated to proactive hearing care and brain health. Understanding the impact of your daily habits is the first step in preserving your ability to connect with the world around you.

The Science of Sound: How Loud Is Too Loud?

To understand the risk, we have to look inside the ear.

Your inner ear contains thousands of tiny, delicate sensory cells called hair cell s. These cells convert sound vibrations into electrical signals that your brain interprets as music or speech.

When you blast music through earbuds, these hair cells get overworked or even permanently damaged. Think of it like walking on a patch of grass: a few footsteps won’t hurt, but if a thousand people walk over it every day, the grass eventually flattens and dies.

Unlike grass, these hair cells do not grow back.

Demystifying Decibels (dB)

Sound is measured in decibels (dB). Because the decibel scale is logarithmic, a small increase in number represents a massive increase in physical pressure on your eardrum.

From a practical standpoint:

The louder the sound, the shorter the time it takes to cause damage.
In many Canadian safety models, the safe exposure time halves with every 3 dB increase.

In other words, what feels like a small volume bump can drastically increase your risk.

The Earbud Factor

Earbuds are particularly risky because they sit directly inside the ear canal, much closer to the eardrum than traditional over-ear headphones.

This concentrates sound at damaging levels very quickly. Add background noise (traffic, wind, gym music), and people often turn the volume up even more—sometimes without realizing how loud it has become.

Typical earbuds can reach:

85–110 dBA at high volumes
Some models up to 120 dBA

At these levels, hearing damage can occur in minutes, not hours.

Are You at Risk? The Canadian Context

This isn’t just a global issue.

According to the Government of Canada , approximately 19% of Canadian adults already have some form of hearing loss, and many are unaware of it.

Among younger Canadians, the trend is especially concerning. It’s common to see teens listening at volumes so loud that others can hear their music—levels that are often sufficient to cause long-term damage.

Your Guide to Safe Listening: 5 Actionable Tips

Protecting your hearing doesn’t mean giving up music. It just means listening smarter.

1. Follow the 60/60 Rule

Listen at no more than 60% of maximum volume for 60 minutes at a time.

2. Limit the Level

Most smartphones include safety features. On iPhone:

Settings → Sounds & Haptics → Headphone Safety → Reduce Loud Audio
Set a hard limit around 75–80 dBA.

3. Choose the Right Gear

Noise-cancelling headphones reduce background noise so you don’t need to crank the volume.

4. Give Your Ears a Break

After an hour of listening, take at least 10 minutes of quiet time.

5. Recognize the Warning Signs

Early symptoms include:

Tinnitus: ringing or buzzing
Muffled hearing: feeling like cotton in your ears
High-pitch difficulty: trouble hearing birds or children’s voices

When to Seek Help

Hearing loss is often gradual and painless, which makes it easy to ignore.

Common signs include:

Frequently asking people to repeat themselves
Turning up TV or radio volume too high
Difficulty hearing in noisy environments
Ringing or buzzing in the ears
Avoiding social situations

Untreated hearing loss is linked to increased cognitive load and higher risk of dementia. Hearing care is brain care.

Final Takeaway

Keeping your ears sharp keeps your brain sharp, your relationships strong, and your quality of life intact.

Your hearing is precious—and once it’s gone, it cannot be fully restored. But small, smart changes today can protect it for decades to come.

Don’t guess about your hearing health.

Audiology First is here to be a trusted part of your total healthcare plan.
If you’re concerned, schedule your comprehensive hearing assessment with us today.

How to Choose the Best Hearing Aids for Your Lifestyle and Budget

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 15:35:45 GMT

Hearing health is often overlooked. That is until problems begin to interfere with daily life…

Many people delay seeing an audiologist because they assume hearing loss is a normal part of aging, or they worry that choosing hearing aids will be complicated and expensive. In reality, protecting your hearing and finding the right hearing aids should be a manageable and personalized process.

Choosing the best hearing aids for your lifestyle and budget comes down to understanding your hearing needs, how you live, and how the technology can best support you. Here’s how our approach at Audiology First can make all the difference!

Why Addressing Hearing Loss Early Matters

Hearing loss affects everyone differently and often develops slowly, making it easy to miss early warning signs. Unfortunately, untreated hearing loss can lead to more than difficulty hearing conversations. Research consistently links unmanaged hearing loss to social withdrawal, cognitive decline, increased listening fatigue, and reduced quality of life.

Hearing aids are not a one-size-fits-all solution…they are simply a tool. How that tool is selected, programmed, and supported over time by a qualified audiologist is where the true value lies.

Early detection of hearing loss gives audiologists the opportunity to recommend the right type of hearing aid, monitor any changes over time, and provide other relevant interventions before permanent damage progresses.

Step 1: The Hearing Test – Your Essential Starting Point

A professional hearing assessment performed by a certified audiologist is the foundation of hearing health. This isn’t something that can be accurately replaced by online screenings or self-administered tests. Audiologists, like the ones on our team here at Audiology First, are trained to provide a level of clinical expertise and precision that cannot be replicated at home.

During a comprehensive hearing test, your audiologist will:

Review your hearing health history and lifestyle factors
Perform pure-tone testing to determine the softest sounds you can hear
Assess speech understanding, often in both quiet and noisy environments
Create an audiogram that maps your hearing ability across frequencies

These results establish a baseline that guides your audiologist towards the right hearing aid style for you. Even if your hearing is currently within a normal range, having this benchmark is essential for long-term reference and prevention. Skipping professional testing can mean choosing hearing aids that don’t fully address your real-world listening needs.

Step 2: Lifestyle Factors – How Daily Life Impacts Hearing Health

Your lifestyle plays a major role in your long-term hearing health. The right hearing aids are especially important if your day-to-day environment places extra demands on your ears.

Consider how often you are exposed to:

Noisy workplaces or industrial environments
Social settings like restaurants or crowded events
Music through headphones or live performances
Recreational activities involving engines, tools, or firearms

These things have a big influence on which hearing aids will work best for you. An audiologist can tailor testing recommendations based on these factors. For example, someone working in a loud working environment may benefit from more advanced speech-in-noise features, while someone focused on home conversations may want to prioritize comfort and simplicity.

Asking yourself how and where you listen throughout the day helps ensure your hearing care is aligned with your real-world needs, and is something your audiologist will help you to determine.

Step 3: Understanding Hearing Aid Technology and Features

Many people with early hearing damage report something along these lines: “I can hear sounds, but I can’t understand words in noisy places.” Speech-in-noise testing identifies these challenges early, and helps guide the selection of hearing aid features designed to improve clarity in real-world settings—it’s something we specialize in here at Audiology First!

Based on your results, your audiologist may recommend hearing aids with features such as:

Directional microphones to improve speech understanding
Noise reduction and sound processing strategies
Bluetooth connectivity for phones and other devices
Different technology levels/tiers that balance performance and cost

Rather than overwhelming you with options, our audiologists offer a personalized approach. We recommend features that provide real benefit based on your hearing needs and lifestyle.

Step 4: Cost, Access, and Preventative Value

In Canada, hearing tests performed by private audiology clinics are often affordable and sometimes covered through private insurance, workplace benefits, or veterans’ programs. Provincial programs may also support hearing-related care depending on your eligibility.

Hearing tests are free for everyone, and hearing aid trials are also free. You only commit to purchasing a hearing aid—or using insurance, Workers’ Compensation, Indigenous benefits, or Veterans’ benefits—once you’ve had the opportunity to determine for yourself that a hearing aid is right for you. These trial periods typically last about 30 days.

Your audiologist will help you understand the different hearing aid price ranges, funding options, and long-term value.

Protecting your hearing and choosing hearing aids is not a one-time decision, but instead an ongoing process. Regular hearing care provides the insight needed to adapt to changes over time, refine hearing aid settings, and ensure continued success.

Audiology First is your Southern Alberta partner for all things hearing health. Our expert team is here to help you with all your regular testing, prevention, and hearing aid care. Book your appointment online with us today!

The Role of Regular Hearing Tests in Preventing Long-Term Hearing Damage

Fri, 28 Nov 2025 20:58:34 GMT

Regular hearing tests are essential because they can help prevent irreversible damage and protect long-term hearing health (all before noticeable symptoms even appear). Subtle changes in hearing accumulate slowly, and without routine assessments, these early warning signs can go undetected until permanent damage has already occurred.

Audiology First provides comprehensive evaluations to their patients which include advanced speech-in-noise testing. This helps to identify hidden hearing challenges, support early intervention, and ensure patients maintain the communication ability and quality of life they rely on every day.

What Does a Comprehensive Hearing Evaluation Include?

Modern hearing evaluations are far more advanced than the simple school screenings many people remember. Our team at Audiology First designs each assessment to create a full, accurate picture of hearing health using multiple specialized tests that evaluate different parts of the auditory system.

Unlike brief workplace or school-based hearing checks, a comprehensive hearing evaluation is a clinical diagnostic assessment designed to identify specific types and causes of hearing loss.

Key components include…

Pure Tone Audiometry

This foundational test measures hearing sensitivity across a wide range of frequencies. It provides baseline thresholds that allow audiologists to detect changes over time; critical for early identification of deterioration.

Speech Audiometry

Beyond detecting tones, speech audiometry evaluates how well someone understands spoken words in quiet environments. This helps determine how hearing loss affects real communication, not just sound detection.

Tympanometry

This middle ear assessment measures eardrum movement and middle ear pressure. It can identify issues such as fluid buildup, eustachian tube dysfunction, or early structural problems that may not yet cause noticeable symptoms.

Otoacoustic Emissions (OAEs)

By measuring tiny sound emissions from the inner ear, OAEs identify early sensory cell damage before it appears on traditional tests. This makes them especially valuable for monitoring noise exposure risks and detecting subtle inner ear changes.

With state-of-the-art equipment and thorough diagnostic protocols, Audiology First provides precise assessments and reliable ongoing monitoring. This multi-layered approach offers far more insight than any single screening test ever could, empowering patients with a clear understanding of their hearing health. Learn more about our assessments by clicking here .

Why Is Speech-in-Noise Testing Critical for Real-World Hearing Assessment?

A quiet sound booth doesn’t reflect the real world. Many people “pass” a traditional hearing test yet still struggle to hear conversations in restaurants, meetings, or family gatherings. Speech-in-noise testing fills this gap.

This advanced test measures how well someone understands speech when background noise is present—a far more accurate reflection of everyday communication environments. It can reveal hidden hearing loss, a condition in which patients have normal hearing thresholds but reduced ability to process sound in noisy environments.

Early detection of these subtle processing issues provides opportunities for proactive treatment long before difficulties become disruptive. Speech-in-noise results also guide precise hearing aid programming and individualized treatment strategies, ensuring devices perform optimally in real listening situations—not just in quiet testing environments.

Audiology First uses leading speech-in-noise protocols to deliver functional hearing assessments that capture the full picture of how patients hear in daily life.

How Do Regular Hearing Tests Prevent Long-Term Hearing Damage?

Hearing loss usually progresses slowly, making it easy to overlook until communication problems become significant. Regular hearing tests prevent long-term damage by creating baseline data and tracking changes over time to catch issues early on.

Prevention benefits include:

Early detection of deterioration, allowing for protective measures such as better noise control or medical intervention
Identification of treatable conditions that can cause permanent damage if ignored
Recognition of lifestyle or occupational risk factors before they lead to irreversible hearing loss

In occupational settings, routine monitoring is typically part of an employer’s health and safety program. In clinical settings, audiologists provide in-depth evaluations and follow-up care for those referred or who seek testing due to symptoms.

Audiology First takes a proactive, prevention-focused approach. Through routine monitoring and personalized prevention strategies, patients receive timely guidance on hearing protection, medical referrals (when needed), and appropriate follow-up care. Prevention is always easier, and far more cost-effective, than addressing untreated hearing loss later.

How Often Should You Get Your Hearing Tested?

Testing frequency varies by age and risk factors, but general guidelines are:

Adults 18–50: Baseline test, then every 3–5 years
Adults 50+: Annual exams to monitor age-related changes
High-risk individuals: More frequent testing for those with regular noise exposure, certain medical conditions, or family history of hearing loss
Hearing aid users: Regular follow-ups to monitor changes and fine-tune devices (schedule to be determined with your audiologist)

Age-related hearing loss is gradual, and many people don’t notice changes until communication becomes difficult…making regular testing even more essential. Audiology First creates personalized evaluation schedules to ensure each patient receives the right level of monitoring for their needs.

It’s important to know that hearing issues aren’t only age-related, either. Children, teens, and young adults experiencing symptoms such as difficulty hearing in class, ringing in the ears, or frequent misunderstandings should also be assessed as soon as possible.

What Advanced Technology Is Used in Modern Hearing Testing?

Modern audiology integrates advanced diagnostic tools that provide accuracy far beyond the older manual methods…

Computer-based systems precisely measure thresholds and analyze auditory response patterns
Real-ear measurements verify that hearing aids match each patient’s ear canal acoustics
Tele-audiology options support remote screening and follow-up care

Audiology First invests heavily in cutting-edge diagnostic equipment. Our patients benefit from the most accurate results, targeted treatment planning, and some of the most comprehensive follow-up available in modern audiology care.

What Should You Do After Getting Your Hearing Test Results?

Interpreting hearing test results is the first step toward maintaining communication health. Audiologists explain what each measurement means, how it affects daily life, and what next steps are recommended.

Depending on the findings, treatment may include:

Individually programmed hearing aids
Assistive listening devices
Auditory rehabilitation
Communication strategy training
Lifestyle adjustments and hearing protection recommendations

Regular hearing tests are the cornerstone of preventing long-term hearing damage. With early detection, modern technology, and comprehensive evaluation protocols, Audiology First provides expert audiological care that protects hearing for life.

Proactive hearing healthcare is one of the most valuable investments a person can make. Book an appointment with us today to get started!

Hearing Loss & Social Isolation

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 16:42:26 GMT

Hearing loss doesn’t just affect how we hear, it has far reaching effects in terms of how we connect and live. Across Canada, thousands of adults experience social withdrawal and loneliness as a result of untreated hearing difficulties. When communication becomes a challenge, relationships, work performance, and emotional well-being often suffer.

The team at Audiology First understands that hearing health goes beyond audiograms and devices. It’s about preserving confidence, connection, and community. We focus on both the medical and social aspects of hearing loss, helping Canadians stay engaged and supported through early detection and proven communication strategies.

Understanding the Connection

Canadian research has shown a clear link between hearing loss and social isolation, particularly among adults aged 45 and older. What begins as difficulty following conversations in noisy settings can gradually lead to reduced participation in social activities, and, in turn, greater isolation and loneliness.

Research Findings: Studies from Statistics Canada confirm that adults with hearing difficulties are significantly more likely to experience feelings of isolation and loneliness compared to those with normal hearing.
Age and Gender Factors: Women aged 45+ are especially at risk, often balancing social, professional, and caregiving roles that depend heavily on effective communication.
Cognitive Impact: Social withdrawal caused by hearing loss can accelerate cognitive decline, increasing the risk of dementia and memory loss.
Quality of Life Effects: Beyond communication barriers, untreated hearing loss affects confidence, relationships, and participation in daily life.

Audiology First’s Assessment

Our comprehensive hearing evaluations include social impact assessments to identify and address the personal effects of hearing loss early on.

Recognizing the Warning Signs

Early recognition can make a profound difference. Hearing loss-related isolation often develops gradually, showing up as subtle changes in social behavior and communication patterns.

Social Withdrawal: Declining invitations, avoiding group settings, or withdrawing from once-enjoyed activities.
Communication Struggles: Difficulty following conversations, frequent requests for repetition, or pretending to understand.
Emotional Impact: Frustration, embarrassment, and reduced self-confidence when engaging with others.
Behavioral Changes: Increased dependence on lip reading or avoidance of noisy environments.

Audiology First’s Early Detection

Our screenings and social impact assessments help identify at-risk individuals early and create tailored intervention plans for our patients.

Effective Communication Strategies

Good communication doesn’t stop with hearing aids, it’s a skill that can (and needs to) be learned, practiced, and shared. Audiology First offers communication training to help both individuals and families foster clearer, more confident interactions.

For Individuals with Hearing Loss:

Get the other person’s attention before speaking.
Face the person and maintain eye contact.
Advocate for your communication needs.

For Family and Friends:

Speak clearly (not louder).
Rephrase rather than repeat.
Reduce background noise and ensure good lighting.

Environmental Modifications:
Choose quiet venues, sit in well-lit areas, and minimize distractions to make conversation easier.

Technology Aids:
Assistive devices and smartphone apps can enhance clarity, especially in group or public settings.

Audiology First’s Communication Training

We offer personalized strategies, family sessions, and ongoing education to promote effective everyday communication.

Building Social Confidence

Confidence in social situations takes time and support. Through communication coaching and peer programs, Audiology First helps individuals rebuild assurance in everyday interactions.

Preparation Strategies: Plan ahead for group conversations and set realistic expectations.
Advocacy Skills: Learn how to disclose your hearing loss and request accommodations comfortably.
Group Communication: Practice strategies for meetings, family gatherings, or public events.
Technology Integration: Use hearing aids and smartphone features effectively to stay connected.

Audiology First’s Confidence Building

We provide communication coaching, social skills workshops, and peer support to empower individuals to reconnect with their communities.

Treatment and Intervention Options

Managing hearing loss effectively requires both technology and personalized care. Audiology First offers a full range of hearing treatment services designed to improve communication and quality of life.

Hearing Aid Technology: Advanced devices with noise reduction, directional microphones, and Bluetooth connectivity.
Assistive Listening Devices: FM systems, loop systems, and amplifiers for specific listening environments.
Counseling Support: Guidance for adjusting emotionally and socially to hearing loss.

Audiology First’s Comprehensive Care

Our ongoing support ensures that every patient receives continuous care, right from the initial assessment and fitting, all the way to long-term communication success.

Family and Community Support

Hearing health is a shared experience. Strong family and community support can make an enormous difference in maintaining engagement and emotional well-being.

Family Education: Learn communication strategies and understand the emotional impact of hearing loss.
Community Resources: Access support groups and hearing loss organizations across Canada.
Workplace Accommodations: Use technology and communication tools to stay effective at work.
Social Network Maintenance: Stay active in community activities and social events with the right tools and confidence.

Audiology First’s Support Network

We offer family counseling, community connections, and referrals to ensure no one faces hearing loss alone.

Understanding the link between hearing loss and social isolation is the first step toward meaningful, lasting connection. With early intervention, the right communication strategies, and ongoing support, individuals with hearing loss can thrive — both socially and emotionally.

Audiology First is committed to helping Canadians hear better, communicate confidently, and live fully connected lives. Because better hearing isn’t just about sound, it’s about belonging. Book your initial assessment with us online today!

Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss: A Medical Emergency You Can't Ignore

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 17:19:53 GMT

When it comes to audiology, there’s only one true emergency: sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) .

Unlike gradual hearing loss that develops over years, SSNHL appears abruptly and requires immediate medical attention. Audiology First specializes in rapid emergency hearing care, with diagnostic protocols and treatment pathways designed to act fast when every hour matters.

Quick intervention can mean the difference between full recovery and permanent hearing damage. Let’s learn how to recognize warning signs and understand what a treatment plan would look like.

Understanding Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss

Definition and Criteria

To an Audiologist, sudden sensorineural hearing loss is defined as a 30+ dB hearing loss (which in layman's terms would be a very noticeable change) across three different pitches of hearing within 72 hours. For it to be a true sudden sensorineural loss, it cannot be related to anything else, like wax blockage, fluid buildup or a blockage. It happens without warning and is often mistaken for a minor issue like earwax buildup or fluid in the ear, but the stakes are often much higher.

Prevalence and Demographics

SSNHL affects about 5 to 20 per 100,000 people annually , with thousands of cases reported across Canada. While it can strike at any age, adults in their 40s and 50s are more commonly affected.

Unilateral vs. Bilateral

Most cases are unilateral (one ear), but in rare circumstances, hearing loss can affect both ears. Bilateral cases are especially urgent and may point to underlying systemic or autoimmune conditions.

Associated Symptoms

Patients often experience additional warning signs such as tinnitus (ringing in the ears), dizziness, or a sensation of fullness in the affected ear.

Audiology First’s Emergency Assessment

Our clinic prioritizes same-day evaluations , including audiometric testing and immediate physician referral when needed. By identifying SSNHL quickly, we aim to maximize the window for effective treatment and recovery.

Remember that hearing care centers like Audiology First cannot treat sudden loss, but play a role in identifying it. If you cannot see an audiologist or another trained hearing care professional right away, you should not delay seeking medical help from a physician.

If same day testing is not available, you should continue to seek help as a matter of urgency. We recommend using one or more of the following resources:

Call Alberta Healthlink on 311
Visit an Urgent Care center
Visit your local Emergency Room or
Call a local Ear Nose and Throat specialist’s office

Recognizing the Warning Signs

Immediate Symptoms

The hallmark sign is sudden hearing loss in one ear , which may feel like muffled sounds or difficulty understanding speech.

Secondary Indicators

Other red flags include persistent tinnitus, balance issues, and ear pressure that can accompany the hearing loss.

When to Seek Emergency Care

Time is of the essence. Some research shows that treatment is most effective when started within the first 72 hours . While some people’s hearing may recover spontaneously with or without treatment, delaying medical attention can lead to permanent hearing impairment . In some cases, hearing does not recover, even with prompt treatment.

If you are experiencing dizziness at the same time as a hearing loss, do not drive yourself to seek help, but consider getting someone to drive you to any immediate appointments.

Self-Assessment Techniques

At home, a simple test is to cover one ear at a time when listening to a familiar sound (such as your phone or TV). If one side sounds significantly quieter or distorted, it’s an urgent signal to seek help. If you are a hearing aid user, it is important to check that your hearing aid is not blocked or malfunctioning in some way, giving the appearance of a sudden change in hearing.

Treatment Options and Protocols

Audiologists and Hearing Care Professionals cannot prescribe medications, but these are some of the options offered to people with sudden loss when they visit a medical professional.

Corticosteroid Therapy

The primary treatment for SSNHL is corticosteroids, delivered either orally or through intratympanic injections. These reduce inflammation and improve the likelihood of hearing recovery. Prednisone is often prescribed.

Treatment Timing

Prompt treatment is crucial. Patients who start therapy within 14 days of onset have significantly better outcomes.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

For patients who don’t respond to steroids, hyperbaric oxygen therapy can serve as a salvage treatment, improving oxygen delivery to the inner ear.

Supportive Care

Managing related issues like tinnitus or dizziness may require additional therapies, including hearing aids or vestibular rehabilitation.

Audiology First’s Treatment Approach

We have a great relationship with the local ENT specialists, and coordinate all aspects of care with them to ensure each patient has access to the best possible recovery options.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery Timelines: Recovery can range from a few days to several months, depending on the severity and speed of treatment. Some patients regain full hearing, while others experience only partial improvement.

Hearing Aid Considerations: For those with lasting deficits, modern hearing aids can provide amplification and restore communication confidence.

Tinnitus Management: Persistent ringing in the ears is often a consequence of hearing loss that can be managed through sound therapy, well fitted hearing aids, counseling, and tinnitus retraining techniques.

Follow-up Care: You should return to the clinic for a series of routine follow up tests over the weeks and months following a sudden hearing loss. This allows us to measure whether treatments have been successful, and to treat any residual hearing loss.

Audiology First’s Rehabilitation Services

For those who need it, Our team provides comprehensive recovery support, including custom hearing aid fittings, counseling, and personalized rehabilitation plans.

Prevention and Risk Factors

Known Risk Factors

Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss has been linked to the following:

Viral infections
Autoimmune disorders
Circulatory problems
Certain medications
Age-related vulnerabilities

Protective Measures

Protecting your hearing from loud noise, avoiding ototoxic medications when possible, and treating systemic health issues can lower risk.

Early Detection

Baseline hearing tests and regular audiology check-ups can help detect changes early and establish a benchmark for comparison.

Lifestyle Factors

It is difficult to note which factors may reduce the risk of sudden sensorineural hearing loss, but a healthy lifestyle—including balanced nutrition, exercise, and cardiovascular health—supports long-term hearing preservation.

Audiology First’s Prevention Programs

We provide preventive screenings, personalized risk assessments, and educational resources so patients can take proactive steps toward protecting their hearing health.

Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss is not a typical hearing problem…it’s a medical emergency.

If you or someone you know experiences sudden hearing loss, don’t wait, contact Audiology First immediately during business hours, or contact any other trusted hearing care clinic. If you cannot reach us, please seek immediate medical attention.

Book your hearing evaluation today and take the first proactive step in protecting your long-term hearing health.

Types of Ear Plugs: Disposable vs. Customizable – Which is Right for You?

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 20:56:07 GMT

Noise-induced hearing loss is one of the most preventable yet common health issues in Canada. From noisy workplaces to concerts, even the everyday environments we all live in can damage hearing if not properly protected. The right ear plugs protect your ears and improve comfort in loud settings, begging the question…which ones are the right ones?

Audiology First specializes in helping Canadians choose the right hearing protection based on lifestyle, comfort needs, and budget. For most people, the choice comes down to two types of ear plugs: disposable or custom-molded options. Let’s compare these different ear plug types so you are prepared to make an informed choice.

Understanding Disposable Ear Plugs

Foam Ear Plugs

These are the most common types of ear plugs. Foam plugs expand inside the ear canal to create a snug seal. When inserted correctly (by rolling the foam thin and letting it expand) they offer strong noise reduction, often resulting in a high Noise Reduction Rating (NRR).

Pre-Molded Silicone Plugs

These reusable plugs are pre-shaped for quick insertion. They can be cleaned and reused, making them more durable than foam. The tradeoff, though, is that they may not fit every ear canal as precisely.

Wax and Putty Options

Moldable wax or putty plugs shape directly to the outer ear. They’re comfortable for sleeping or activities like swimming, but usually limited to single or short-term use.

Cost Considerations

Disposables are inexpensive, especially in bulk, but frequent users may find that costs start to add up. For travel, concerts, or occasional noise exposure, they remain practical and affordable options.

Audiology First’s Disposable Selection

While we don’t offer foam or disposable plugs in our clinic, we want you to know they are a perfectly valid option for occasional use. If you choose this route, make sure you’re inserting them properly to get the full benefit.

Custom-Molded Ear Plugs Explained

Professional Fitting Process

Audiology First creates custom hearing protection using Otoscan 3D ear imaging technology, which allows for a precise and comfortable fit without traditional impression material. Custom plugs require an audiologist appointment, after which a lab manufactures plugs tailored to your ear canal. A final fitting ensures both comfort and seal.

Material Options

They can be made from medical-grade silicone, vinyl, or acrylic, chosen based on flexibility and durability, depending on your needs (which an audiologist can help you determine).

Specialized Applications

Custom plugs can be designed for specific uses, such as the following:

Musicians : Volume reduction while preserving sound quality.
Industrial Work : Heavy-duty noise protection.
Swimming : Water-resistant plugs to prevent infections.

Longevity and Maintenance

With proper cleaning and storage, custom plugs can last several years, making them a cost-effective long-term solution.

Audiology First’s Custom Services

We offer custom ear plugs by appointment at our clinic and are happy to guide you through the process from 3D imaging to final fitting.

Comparing Comfort and Effectiveness

Fit and Seal Quality

Custom plugs excel because they’re made for your unique ear canal, while disposables may vary in performance depending on insertion and ear shape.

Noise Reduction Ratings (NRR)

Foam plugs often show high NRRs, but effectiveness depends on technique. Custom plugs deliver consistent protection thanks to their precise fit.

Comfort for Extended Wear

Disposables can cause irritation with long use. Custom plugs, shaped for your ear, remain comfortable for all-day wear.

Sound Quality Preservation

For musicians or those who need clarity, custom plugs with acoustic filters maintain sound quality. Disposables tend to muffle speech and music.

Audiology First’s Fitting Expertise

Our audiologists test for both comfort and performance to ensure maximum effectiveness.

Cost-Benefit Analysis: Types of Ear Plugs

Audiology First’s Value Guidance

Audiologist First has the team, the experience, and the resources to help clients weigh the costs, usage frequency, and comfort of different ear plug types to recommend the best option for long-term hearing health.

Choosing the Right Option for Your Lifestyle

Occasional Use Scenarios

For concerts, flights, or occasional noisy events, disposable ear plugs are practical and budget-friendly.

Regular Use Applications

Workers in noisy industries, musicians, or anyone using plugs daily will benefit most from the durability and comfort of custom-molded options.

Special Considerations

Swimming : Custom water-resistant plugs help prevent infections.
Sleeping : Wax or custom plugs reduce nighttime noise.
Medical Needs : Custom plugs can be fitted to irregular ear canal shapes, for example.

Professional Recommendations

Consulting an audiologist ensures you get protection tailored to your hearing, lifestyle, and budget. Rather than guessing, it’s best to have a qualified practitioner in your corner, and that’s exactly what Audiology First provides.

Audiology First’s Personalized Approach

Audiology First provides lifestyle assessments and hearing evaluations to ensure your ear plugs support your daily needs and long-term hearing health.

The choice between disposable and custom ear plugs will depend on usage requirements, the comfort of the plugs, and your budget. Occasional users may prefer disposable plugs, while daily users could gain more from the comfort and reliability of custom options.

Want custom hearing protection made for your ears? Book a quick appointment with us and experience our Otoscan 3D ear imaging for a perfect, hassle-free fit.

Who to Turn to for Hearing Loss: Roles of Healthcare Providers

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 16:06:09 GMT

Ok—you’ve started to notice some problems with your hearing. Where do you turn? Who do you start with? Maybe your family doctor? An audiologist? ENT? There are so many people who might qualify as hearing loss healthcare providers ; which one do you choose?

The problem with this uncertainty is its proclivity to delay care. We know that early intervention can make such a difference in treatment outcomes when it comes to hearing loss, so it’s important that we know where to turn and when.

Audiology First works closely with a comprehensive network of hearing loss healthcare providers (it’s who we are!). We have close relationships with physicians, ENTs, and other healthcare professionals in and around the Lethbridge area to always offer the highest level of support to our patients.

Let’s explore together where you need to turn and when, and how Audiology First will always be there to support you in your hearing health journey!

When to Start with Your Family Physician

For many people, their family doctor is the first point of contact for any health changes, including their hearing. While the role of experts in hearing testing and calibration is reserved for audiologists, there are several scenarios where seeing a physician first makes sense.

Medical Emergencies

Severe ear pain, sudden hearing loss, or discharge from the ear can all be indications of a serious medical condition (such as an infection or inner ear damage) that requires immediate medical attention. Sudden hearing loss, severe pain, or severe dizziness should prompt an immediate visit to the emergency room. Do not wait to see your family physician or an ENT. The emergency team will contact a specialist for you, if needed.

Underlying Conditions

Hearing health can often be an indicator of a person’s broader health situation. Diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and side effects of medication can all contribute to hearing problems; a physician can help connect those dots. Physicians will almost immediately refer to audiology for any concerns related to hearing, tinnitus, or balance.

Insurance Requirements

Some insurance plans or government programs require a physician’s referral or medical documentation to cover hearing tests or devices.

Basic Screening

Family doctors can review a person’s medical history, conduct basic screening, and be a safe space for people who are hesitant about bringing up new health issues they’re experiencing.

Audiology First maintains current and is always looking to build new partnerships with local family physicians in Lethbridge. Our goal is to always ensure patients get timely referrals and coordinated care.

The Audiologist’s Role in Hearing Healthcare

Audiologists are specialized healthcare providers dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of hearing and balance disorders. With training and tools that go far beyond basic screenings, they’re the hearing loss healthcare provider most fully-equipped to deal with a wide range of hearing issues and conditions.

Audiologists never require a referral to work with patients. This makes them an accessible first step for any ear or hearing concerns (with the exception of medical emergencies).

Comprehensive Evaluation

Audiologists are trained to perform in-depth assessments, including pure-tone audiometry, speech testing, and middle ear evaluations. Hearing tests at Audiology First are free and just as comprehensive as those offered by Alberta Health Services (for which wait times can often be several months).

Specialized Testing

A good audiology clinic will be able to offer more specialized services, such as tinnitus evaluations, balance assessments, and even genetic consultations for hereditary hearing loss.

Treatment Planning

Customized planning that includes hearing aid selection, custom fittings, programming and long-term follow-up care are all customary offerings here at Audiology First.

Advanced Technology

3D ear scanning and video otoscopy give audiologists a far better picture of the patient’s hearing health. This offers a more precise diagnosis and higher level of comfort during fittings.

Audiology First is positioned as the most prominent and capable audiology clinic in Southern Alberta. Our unmatched diagnostic abilities and treatment options make us Lethbridge’s # 1 hearing expert, ready to serve you and cater to your unique hearing profile.

ENT Specialists: When Medical Intervention is Needed

Otolaryngologists (ENTs) are medical doctors who specialize in conditions of the ear, nose, and throat. They're hearing loss healthcare providers that have a special role and necessity in this network of care.

Surgical Candidates

ENTs are who we turn to in the industry when surgery is required; chronic infections, perforated eardrums, or implanted hearing solutions are all within their scope of practice.

Complex Medical Cases

ENTs are really the specialists when it comes to complex conditions, hearing profiles and situations. They handle acoustic neuromas, structural abnormalities, and chronic sinus issues that affect someone’s hearing.

Sudden Hearing Loss

Sudden hearing loss is a major concern, one that requires urgent evaluation and treatment by an ENT specialist.

Audiology First works closely with ENTs to help patients get the medical and surgical care that they need. We always strive for comprehensive, coordinated support, and our ENT partners are an important part of that.

Other Healthcare Team Members

Some other team members you’ll find under the umbrella of hearing loss healthcare providers include the following:

Hearing aid practitioners
Speech-language pathologists (SLPs)
Mental health professionals
Occupational health specialists
Physiotherapists

Making the Right Choice: Decision Framework

Let’s get down to it. With all this context, how do we make the right choice? Determining where to start depends on two things: symptoms and urgency.

Red Flags: See a Physician or ENT Immediately

Sudden hearing loss
Severe pain
Severe dizziness
Discharge from the ear

Concerning Symptoms: Book With an Audiologist

Gradual hearing loss
Tinnitus
Difficulty following conversations in noisy environments

Cautionary Checking: See Your Family Doctor

Changes in your hearing health that become noticeable
Need for a referral for insurance coverage
Persistent ear fullness or recurring infections

Understanding the differences in providers can help save time, and also make a positive difference in the treatment outcomes for a patient.

Ready to take the next step?

Being proactive about your hearing is an important part of a well-rounded healthcare plan. Download our free guide to navigating hearing healthcare in Lethbridge, and contact Audiology First to book your comprehensive hearing evaluation today!

Hearing Aid Maintenance 101: Keeping Your Devices in Top Shape

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 16:44:25 GMT

Modern hearing aids aren’t just devices…they’re the thing that keeps you connected to the world around you. With that in mind, their care should be a top priority. Like any piece of technology, a consistent maintenance routine helps them to work their best. The sensitivity of these devices makes their regular cleaning and care that much more important.

Hearing aids contain several delicate components that are constantly exposed to things like moisture, earwax, and debris. A few simple steps each day makes one’s hearing aid maintenance quick and easy to do, dramatically extending their lifespan.

Let Audiology First show you how.

Why Regular Maintenance Matters

The performance and durability of your hearing aids depends first on their build quality, and second on their maintenance routine—that’s how important it is! Think about it: they’re sitting snug inside your ears where earwax, moisture, dust, and all sorts of unpleasant things like to reside. It’s no wonder your hearing aids are susceptible to buildup and damage as a result.

As soon as the microphone or receiver become blocked, that’s where we start running into problems…

Moisture (sweat, humidity, etc.) can corrode the internal components of your hearing aid. Debris, like dust, dirt, and dander, always finds its way into the tiniest of openings, too. This is why regular cleaning has to be part of your daily hearing aid maintenance in order to ensure clear, high-quality sound every time you use them.

Daily Care Routine

The team here at Audiology First has prepared some simple advice for you to refer to. Consider the following.

Change Your Filters

About 85% of hearing aid issues are caused by blocked wax filters. Replacing the filter is usually a quick fix—and it's free. If you're unsure how, our front staff can show you or do it for you. Instructions are also in your manual and every filter pack!

Cleaning

Before going to bed, wipe your hearing aids with a soft, dry cloth. Then, use a light brush or wax pick (which hearing aids often come with) to gently remove any earwax or debris buildup. Be sure to check all openings and vents. A reminder, always handle your hearing aids over a soft surface (in case you drop them!).

Storage

You’ll want to keep your hearing aids in a cool and dry place overnight. Many hearing aids are rechargeable, and will be dehumidified while charging. They should always be stored in their charging case when not in use. A drying kit or hearing aid dehumidifier is also a smart investment, especially if you live in a humid climate.

Battery Care

Do your hearing aids use disposable batteries? Open the battery cover overnight to allow moisture to escape. Do they have rechargeable batteries? Hearing aids have built-in overcharge protection, and should be stored in the charger, with the charger fully plugged in, when not in use.

What to Avoid

We’ve touched on some things to do, now let’s talk about some things to avoid…

Water Immersion

Hearing aids are water-resistant, but not waterproof! Many hearing aids are rated at IP68, which means they can be fully submerged, and will usually recover from immersion in water. However, it’s not recommended to intentionally wear them in situations where they could be submerged or lost in water.

This means their threshold for dealing with moisture is quite low, and you’ll want to remove them before showering, swimming, or using a sauna. Even high humidity can be harmful, so you always want to be aware of the environments you’re spending time in.

Extreme Temperatures

Hot cars, freezing winter days…hearing aids are sensitive. You don’t want to leave them in or even expose them to these types of extreme environments for too long. Sudden shifts in temperature, too, can damage the internal components (or even warp the casing).

Harsh Chemicals

Alcohol, bleach, household sprays and other cleaning agents are not recommended to go anywhere near your hearing aids. Your audiologist can help recommend hearing aid specific cleaning products. You’ll also want to use a soft, dry cloth for everyday cleaning, as previously mentioned.

When to Seek Professional Help

Professional cleanings are offered for a reason. It’s good to schedule in for one every 4-6 months to handle any tough to reach buildup in the difficult and more delicate parts of your hearing aids. Even the most conscientious hearing aid maintenance routine will miss things from time to time, which is why it’s best to get a professional service done at least twice a year.

If issues start to arise at any time, however, such as no sound, distorted audio, chronic feedback, or physical discomfort, you may have to schedule an appointment sooner. Give our audiologists a call and we’ll give you our recommendation. It’s often worth bringing them in for an inspection and recalibration to make sure everything is in proper working order.

Why Your Input as the Hearing Aid User is Crucial

As the wearer of your hearing aids, you are the one best equipped to provide feedback to your audiologist. Our expertise only goes so far without your input and opinion to ensure your listening experience is top quality and meeting all your needs.

Personalized Settings

Hearing aids are tailored to your unique hearing profile, but that has to be constantly informed by your day-to-day listening experience, which only you can tell us about! This kind of feedback is extremely valuable to us as audiologists, and allows us to fine-tune the settings for the environments and situations you commonly find yourself in.

Comfort & Fit

Who wants to wear an uncomfortable hearing aid? That’s right, nobody! A comfortable hearing aid is more likely to be worn, and that’s what we want as your hearing care team. Your input on comfort helps us as professionals make the necessary adjustments that work just for you.

Real-World Performance

Your observations from the real world help inform the attunement of your hearing aids in the peace and quiet of our clinic. To optimize performance, we often rely on reports from the user. Understanding how the device operates across various situations is something that has to be tested in your everyday life.

Ongoing Adjustments

Hearing needs evolve as time goes on. We age, our lifestyles change, and our health conditions vary. Regular check-ins and open communication with the team here at Audiology First allow us to make sure your hearing aids continue to meet your needs over time.

Audiology First offers a daily 'no appointment needed' hearing aid cleaning service, which is performed by trained staff at the front desk. Booking with an audiologist or hearing care professional is not required to get a cleaning.

Walk-in cleanings are recommended 3-4 times a year. Our audiologists and hearing aid specialists will review any hearing aids that are not functioning properly during the cleaning process. If you are having problems with your hearing aids after the cleaning, a follow-up appointment can then be arranged.

Do you need help with your hearing aids? From hearing aid maintenance to fittings and checkups, Audiology First is here to help. We’re #1 in Southern Alberta for a reason. Schedule a consultation with us today . We can’t wait to hear from you!

Understanding Noise Ratings

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 18:59:15 GMT

We are all bombarded with varying levels of noise in different environments throughout the day. Noise exposure is the term we use to quantify this. In other words, it’s the amount and intensity of sound that you encounter. Whether its power tools, heavy traffic, shrieking teenagers, concerts of sporting events—it all counts. It’s when these noises are suddenly too loud, or just loud enough over an extended period of time, that we start to run into issues.

This is where noise ratings come in. Measurements that help us make smart decisions when it comes to hearing and hearing protection.

Audiology First is here to inform you and help you make these choices intelligently. We can start by educating ourselves of what noise ratings are and how we use them to our patients' advantage.

What Are Noise Ratings?

Noise ratings are standardized measurements used to describe how well a hearing protection device will reduce the amount of sound that reaches your ears. Examples of these devices would be earplugs or earmuffs.

The most common of these measurements is the Noise Reduction Rating . Determined through laboratory testing, this measurement is expressed in decibels (dB), and indicates the potential level of sound reduction if the protection is worn correctly.

Real-world environments differ significantly from a lab, though. To account for this, we use a simple formula to estimate effective protection in the everyday environments we actually live in:

Effective Noise Reduction = (NRR − 7) ÷ 2

So, if a pair of earmuffs, for example, has a noise reduction rating of 30dB, the actual reduction in a typical setting would be around 11.5 dB. It’s an important metric to understand, as it provides a more realistic understanding of the true level of protection being offered.

Why Noise Ratings Matter

Did you know that noise exposure is one of the leading causes of preventable hearing loss worldwide? Continuous exposure to noise above 85 dB (lawnmowers, loud music, and heavy machinery all fall into this category) can permanently damage the tiny hair cells in your inner ear which are responsible for hearing.

Here are some facts to consider:

Prolonged exposure to noise above 85 dB can cause irreversible hearing damage.
The higher the decibel level, the shorter the safe exposure time becomes.
Early signs of noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) include muffled hearing, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), and trouble understanding speech.

These outcomes are preventable. Properly rated hearing protection can preserve your hearing long-term.

Noise Ratings and Hearing Aids

Hearing aids can be a bit deceiving in the sense that many who wear them often think they offer enough protection from loud noises and environments. Unfortunately, they do not offer much of a noise reduction rating on their own, and are not a sufficient substitute for hearing protection.

In noisy environments, such as workplaces or at concerts, there is no need to try and wear hearing protection and hearing aids at the same time, as the hearing aids will likely whistle. The goal is to prevent sound from entering the ear canal, and keep sound levels below 85 dB to prevent further damage from occurring.

To accomplish this, there are different options available; custom-fitted earplugs or active noise-cancelling earmuffs are great choices that maximize both comfort and functionality. When someone has experienced hearing loss, it becomes all the more important to preserve that remaining here as best as we can.

Choosing the Right Hearing Protection

Different forms of hearing protection are available, and each of them has their own unique benefits. Let’s look at some of them now:

Foam Earplugs

Soft and disposable, foam earplugs will expand in your ear canal to form a seal.

Pre-Molded Earplugs

These are reusable and available in different sizes, offering a more consistent fit to the user.

Earmuffs

Cover the entire ear, easy to put on and take off. The most comprehensive form of noise reduction.

Custom-Molded Earplugs

A truly custom fit—designed to sit perfectly in your ear for maximum comfort and protection.

The choice you make will heavily depend on your lifestyle and profession. Working in construction is very different from mowing your grass. A helpful tip: If your earplugs are fitting correctly, your voice should sound slightly muffled or louder to yourself.

Tips for Effective Use

Having the right type of hearing protection is one thing, using it properly is another. It’s easy to completely negate the effectiveness of the former by ignoring the latter. Here’s some tips to help you avoid that.

Ensure a proper fit. Poorly fitted earplugs or earmuffs significantly reduce their effectiveness.
Wear them consistently. Always wear hearing protection when around potentially harmful noise.
Clean and store properly. Reusable earplugs and earmuffs should be cleaned regularly and stored in a clean, dry case.

How to Use Pre-Molded Earplugs

A final instructional guide for you to keep in mind and consider:

Gently pull the top of your ear up and back with your opposite hand to straighten your ear canal.
Use the other hand to firmly grip the stem of the earplug and gently slide the earplug into the ear canal. Use a rocking motion until you have sealed the ear canal.
To remove pre-molded earplugs, slowly rock them back and forth to break the seal with your ear canal, and then gently pull them out of your ear.

Understanding noise ratings (and how to apply them) can make a world of difference in the protection and preservation of your hearing. Whether you're exposed to loud environments occasionally or daily, selecting the right level of protection, with the appropriate noise reduction rating, is key.

The team at Audiology First is committed to helping you protect your hearing with expert guidance and customized hearing protection solutions— book a consultation with us today to find the right hearing protection for your lifestyle and needs.

Why Hearing Aid Outcomes Vary for Everyone

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 15:59:13 GMT

Hearing aids are not a one-size-fits-all solution. It might look simple, after all, you just turn it on, pop it in your ear, and that’s it…right? Not quite. Their effectiveness can vary widely between individuals, and hearing aid outcomes are all but guaranteed. Learn the reasons why, and how Audiology First accounts for them, in the remainder of this article!

Understanding Variability Hearing Aid Outcomes

What people get wrong off the hop is that hearing aids are not just amplifiers —these are sophisticated devices that have evolved significantly over the years to accommodate the unique hearing profile of each individual. Technology that is fitted to a person’s ear anatomy, while at the same time helping them to operate in their work environment and personal life.

Modern hearing aids have advanced features such as noise management algorithms, directional microphones, and frequency compression to enhance listening in different directions. It’s far from being just a miniature speaker in your ear. Today’s hearing aids are companion devices that adapt to the dynamism of the modern day working life.

Despite these capabilities, however, the sound received by a hearing aid still has to travel through a damaged auditory system before reaching the brain. This leaves room for distortion and error prior to perception, and highlights the understanding that hearing loss is not just about the ears—it’s a complex condition, and hearing aid outcomes vary as a result.

Key Factors Influencing Outcomes

Let’s take a look at some of the key factors that might influence hearing aid outcomes…

Types & Severity of Hearing Loss

The nature of a person’s hearing loss can significantly affect the performance of their hearing aid. Sensorineural, conductive, and mixed-types of hearing loss have a say over which device and settings will work best for the patient. If the wrong hearing aid is selected (or the right one with the wrong settings), poor results and discomfort are likely outcomes.

Physical Ear Structure & Ear Health

No two ears are the same! The ear canal is a highly complex physical structure that can differ widely between individuals. Not only that, the presence of earwax, and any other ongoing ear health issues (such as infections or drainage problems) can impact the fitting and function of a hearing aid. Whistling feedback, lack of clarity, and even the potential to damage an in-ear device are all often contributed to by these problems.

Hearing Aid Technology & Environment Needs

Your basic hearing aid might be sufficient for someone who spends most of their time in quiet environments that don’t require much adaptation, but that won’t work for everyone. Busy/noisy settings require more advanced technology to support an individual and accommodate their needs. Background noise suppression and speech enhancement features, for example, can make a huge difference for the person that needs them.

Audiologist Support and Personalization

A skilled audiologist with the appropriate level of experience and a solid reputation in the community could be the biggest differentiator when it comes to hearing aid outcomes. Real-ear measurements and individualized counseling help ensure a hearing aid is functioning properly and tailored to the user’s needs. Without professional assessment and input, even the best devices will fall short of their potential.

Lifestyle & User Commitment

Wearing a hearing aid is a different type of auditory experience. The brain needs time to adjust to this new way of hearing (especially if someone has gone years without any correction to their hearing impairment). The best hearing aid outcomes happen when someone wears their device regularly and follows the recommendations of their audiologist.

Personalized Hearing Assessments and Fittings

Audiology First is the most reputable audiology clinic in Southern Alberta—we understand that no two hearing journeys are the same, which is why every patient begins with a comprehensive hearing assessment. This is followed up with a 1-on-1 consultation to select and fit the right device.

Our personalized fittings go far beyond this initial appointment, however. We offer ongoing support, adjustments, and continuing education to help each patient get the best hearing aid outcome possible.

According to the Alberta College of Speech Language Pathologists and Audiologists, "one size does not fit all in the world of hearing aids" . Individualizing the programming and fitting of hearing aids to a person’s specific hearing profile is essential to optimizing their hearing ability and achieving the best outcome. This is our work—and this is what we do at Audiology First.

Hearing aid outcomes are as unique as the individuals who wear them. To get the best possible result, trust someone with a reputation that makes you feel confident and secure in your decision. Audiology First will give you the expert, independent hearing care that you need. Book your personalized hearing evaluation with us today.

Update on Hearing loss and Dementia

glennh@audiologyfirst.ca (Glenn Hole) — Wed, 09 Apr 2025 18:00:08 GMT

Update on dementia and hearing loss - March 2025

By Glenn Hole, Audiologist and Owner of Audiology First.

Main points in summary

Hearing loss is prevalent, especially among seniors in Southern Alberta, potentially due to noise-heavy industries and an aging population.
It leads to short-term issues like communication difficulties and tinnitus.
Mid-term effects include social isolation, depression, and reduced quality of life.
Long-term hearing loss is being researched for its potential link to cognitive decline and dementia.
Research suggests a correlation between hearing loss and increased risk of dementia, but a direct causal link is not yet definitively proven.
Hearing loss appears to be a modifiable risk factor for dementia.
Hearing aids can mitigate some of the other negative impacts of hearing loss
Some studies indicate that hearing aids may reduce cognitive decline, but more research is needed.
Improving hearing is one of several healthy lifestyle choices that reduce the risk of dementia.
The proper fitting and consistent use of hearing aids is essential to gain the full benefits.
Audiology first is a clinic that focuses on evidence based hearing aid fittings.

Introduction

This blog post represents an update to an original post made in the springtime of 2024 last year on the topic of cognitive decline and hearing loss. This may be an important read for those who may have hearing loss, who may have hearing aids but are not currently using them, and for anyone interested in the topic of hearing loss and cognitive health.

Short term effects of age-related hearing loss.

Age related hearing loss is the most common type of hearing loss, and since it develops very gradually, it can be hard to notice at first. Noise exposure affects the hearing in a similar way to age related change.

Most forms of hearing loss reduce the fine details of sounds, rather than giving someone complete deafness. Because age or noise damage related hearing loss tends to damage the high-pitched hearing ability first, most patients with hearing loss tend to have the most trouble hearing children's voices, women’s voices or certain letter sounds like "s" and "f". Some of the first signs of hearing loss also include increasing difficulty following conversations in restaurants, misunderstanding what people say regularly, especially when multiple people are talking.

One common, everyday sign of hearing loss is turning up the volume on TV, radio, or other devices to hear clearly. Tinnitus is another common sign and symptom of hearing loss, where people experience ringing, buzzing, or hissing sounds in the ears.

Most people with hearing loss tend to underestimate the problem, while others around them have been noticing the problem for years (Kiely et al., 2012). A hearing test is recommended for anyone over the age of 65, whether they have noticed problems yet or not.

Mid term effects of hearing loss

Social withdrawal and loneliness are more common among those with hearing loss (Shukla A et al. 2020). Those with hearing loss also tend to suffer from other psychological and emotional difficulties such as depression, anxiety, lowered self-esteem, frustration, anger, and a sense of loss due to the inability to fully participate in conversations and activities.

Long Term effects of hearing loss

Research now suggests that in addition to the short and mid term effects of hearing loss, there are long terms effects of hearing loss. Social withdrawal, limited interpersonal interactions, relationship breakdowns, and poorer quality of life are all well documented consequences of hearing loss that is unmanaged and untreated (Kaland, Salvatore, 2002).

Managing the hearing problem can provide some defense against some of the short term, mid-term and long term effects of hearing loss. Decades of research confirms a strong association between hearing aid use and increased quality of life (Kitterick & Ferguson, 2018; Aviernos et al., 2024), however only about 30% of those aged 70 and above who could benefit from a hearing aid have ever tried one.

A hidden long term effect of hearing loss could be cognitive decline

Researchers have found additional reasons to consider fixing the hearing problem. Hearing loss appears to increase the risk of cognitive decline and dementia.

Why this is being researched?

As our population ages, the rates of dementia and cognitive decline will increase. The costs of care for those with cognitive dysfunction are already high, and are set to grow. For example, in the USA, the combined medical and caregiving costs associated with the care of all persons in the US with Alzheimer’s dementia were estimated to exceed $500 billion in 2020 and are projected to rise to $1.6 trillion (inflation-adjusted) by 2050 (Aranda et al, 2021).

In Canada, and many other countries around the world, scientists have been searching for ways to understand why dementia occurs, who is most vulnerable, and to maybe find ways to reduce or prevent dementia.

Hearing loss has long thought to be related to cognitive decline and has become one of the biggest areas of dementia and aging related research in recent years. A quick search listed 28,923 studies that have included information directly or indirectly relating to hearing loss on the brain since 1977. In 2024 alone there were 2118 studies!

What is this all this research telling us?

Some of the most important studies to date have shown that:

9% of all existing dementia cases may be associated with hearing loss (Livingstone et al., 2020)
There is evidence for additional brain shrinkage in those with hearing loss compared to those without hearing loss (Wang et al., 2022).
Researchers have found markers for Alzheimer’s disease in people with hearing loss before any diagnosis of Alzheimer's has been made (Wang et al., 2022).
Individuals with mild, moderate, and severe hearing loss had a two-fold, three-fold, and five-fold increased risk of developing dementia, respectively, compared to those with normal hearing of the same age (Lin et al. 2023).
Even mild hearing loss is associated with a 19% increased risk of developing dementia over a 10-year period compared to those of the same age without hearing loss (Wei et al 2017).

Based on the currently available research, correlational relationships between cognitive decline and hearing loss exist; and as rates of hearing loss increase, dementia and cognitive decline also seem to increase – in a predictable way. Then again, correlation isn’t always evidence of causation, and two things can seem related for unrelated reasons. Actual causative factors are difficult to identify for many reasons.

This raises an important question for those involved in hearing care.

Should hearing care providers share this information with out patients?

I feel that as audiologists should we raise awareness of these risks, and ensure we try and future proof or protect those who might be vulnerable to 'hearing-loss-related dementia', should THE causative mechanism linking the two be found and identified. Hearing aids should not be sold as 'dementia cures'. That is a big exaggeration of the reality. Hearing aids are likely to reduce some of the risk posed by the effects of hearing loss - and I think that is the only thing we should infer and share with patients.

Intuitively however, I feel that we already have evidence enough to have a good discussion of the risks of hearing loss related dementia, but that discussion should be provided with a great deal of context. As you can tell, finding the right words and ways to deliver that information is difficult and nuanced that a simple headline or slogan can ever deliver.

Additionally, it should be acknowledged that dementia is not the only potential risk of hearing loss. There may also be other unknown and unique effects of hearing loss on an individual. For example, untreated hearing loss has been associated with worse spatial awareness, and increased risk of falls. Hearing loss may be implicated in people not performing well at work, and not receiving adequate recognition or promotion. Hearing loss may cause people to feel inadequate or restricted in some way in meeting new people, or forming relationships with others. I feel that audiologists have a responsibility to care for patients with hearing loss, and while managing the risk of dementia is not the primary goal of managing hearing loss, I still feel a strong sense of responsibility to be proactive and protective against all of the risks a hearing problem might create.

Dementia & Hearing Loss – A mosaic of risks and possibilities.

Like many health conditions, combinations of different factors indirectly contribute to the chances of us developing a problem. In the case of dementia, it happens that the effects of hearing loss appears to be one of the biggest modifiable risk factors for dementia, but it is far from the only risk factor. Our individual circumstances lead to the formation of a ‘risk mosaic’ – a composite of risk factors that form how much chance there is of us developing a particular health condition.

Experts say that as much as 60% of the risk of dementia does not appear to be related to anything we could control or change, while the remaining 40% of our risk is made up by modifiable health and lifestyle factors. Hearing loss is considered a modifiable risk factor or hearing loss.

Non-modifiable risks are things like aging, our environment, our genetics, and many other things that have not yet been identified by research.

Some good news - Some of our risk can be changed.

Research has shown that acting or modifying certain aspects of our lifestyles, taking care of health problems, such as treating diabetes, avoiding head injuries, treating hearing loss, starting an exercise program, or even changing your diet all seemed to directly reduce the risk of dementia developing .

Some of the items on our ‘risk mosaic’ therefore can be replaced or altered to lower our overall risk of developing dementia. Not only that, but there are major short term and mid term benefits to our health and wellbeing by managing our modifiable risk factors for dementia. Hearing loss is not the only modifiable risk, but it appears to be the biggest contributing risk factor for dementia.

The mechanism - The theories linking Hearing Loss & Dementia

There are several plausible mechanisms explaining the hearing-cognition relationship, divided into causal mechanisms (how hearing loss might cause dementia) and common mechanisms (factors affecting both hearing loss and dementia).

Causal Mechanisms – How hearing loss might cause dementia.

Depletion of Cognitive Reserve: Hearing loss increases cognitive load, potentially exhausting cognitive reserve. Cognitive reserve helps individuals cope with brain pathology. Hearing loss may force the brain to allocate more resources to sound processing, reducing resources for other cognitive functions, leading to earlier dementia symptoms (Tun et al, 2009) .
Social Isolation: Hearing problems can lead to social isolation, increasing dementia risk (Strawbridge et al, 2000, Mick et al 2014). Social isolation impairs communication and reduces social support, which is crucial for healthy aging. Preventing social isolation is important in aural rehabilitation to promote healthy aging and prevent cognitive decline.
Changes in Brain Structure: Studies show older adults with hearing loss have decreased brain volumes, particularly in areas crucial for language processing compared to those with normal hearing (Peelle et al, 2011). This reduction in brain volume is thought to be related to under-use of the hearing areas of the brain. This may affect cognitive processes and increase dementia risk (Chern & Golub, 2019).

Common Mechanisms – Shared that could cause hearing loss AND dementia

Vascular degeneration: Deterioration of blood vessels may contribute to both hearing loss and dementia. Insufficient blood flow to the inner ear and brain can cause and contribute to both hearing loss and cognitive decline. However, some studies found an association between hearing loss and dementia even after adjusting for vascular risk factors.
Other Neuropathologic Processes: A common process might affect both the brain and hearing structures, causing both dementia and hearing loss at the same time. However, no such process has yet been identified.
Additional Considerations: As stated above, the relationship between hearing and dementia may be multifactorial, involving several mechanisms.

Weaknesses in the research

There are some confounding problems when it comes to making the assertion that hearing loss causes dementia, and that hearing aids can fix or prevent dementia. It is important to read carefully around the topic, and not accept all information on face value. Research articles can be difficult to read and may not always provide clear conclusions. Here are some of the main issues with the research.

Hearing difficulties can mimic dementia.

Tests that measure cognitive function, or screening tests for dementia must be carefully designed as to not represent the effects of hearing loss as a sign that a person has dementia. Physicians performing screening tests for dementia must work around existing sensory impairments like hearing loss, so that hearing loss is not mistaken for dementia. Memory problems are common in people with hearing loss, even if they do not have dementia. Memories of conversations may be difficult if they were only partially heard. It is important to have a good understanding of the way data for these studies was collected, and whether existing sensory problems could have contributed to poor scores. The best research appears to have eliminated potentially confounding factors.

Do hearing aids actually help?

Some studies have found it difficult to identify whether treating age related hearing loss with hearing aids can alter dementia. Some studies used existing data to compare two groups of people with hearing loss, those who did and those who did not acquire hearing instruments. Research shows that those who wore hearing instruments had better cognitive function, however we cannot assume that the hearing improvement was the only reason for this. They could have been advantaged with regards to the risk of developing dementia in several ways. For example, people with higher levels of education, and higher levels of income could afford hearing aids more easily. These same people may have had access to a better diet, had less exposure to environments that could put them at risk of dementia. They could have had better sleep throughout their lives. As a result of having a better quality of life in several other areas, unrelated to hearing loss, they could have had fewer mental health related concerns, had more opportunity to exercise, and more opportunity to socialize.

However the consistent use of hearing aids can be much lower than the recommended levels, especially amongst older adults who may already have dementia. This may be especially true for those in long term care facilities where hearing aid uses become dependent on others for consistent use (Cohen-Mansfield J, Taylor JW, 2004).

· Hearing aids require extensive care and maintenance to keep providing the right level of benefit to the patient.

· Those in long term care for dementia often have problems with mismanagement of hearing aids.

· Batteries have often run out for days or weeks on end.

· Hearing aids can be labelled be care workers as ‘expensive personal devices’ and kept in a drawer or cupboard rather than worn to avoid loss of the devices.

These issues can be created by a general lack of education on hearing aids, time or ability to provide hearing aid care for someone else. This can mean that cognitive performance data gathered on hearing aid users and the potentially beneficial effects of hearing aid use may be hindered by low exposure to the sound and high levels of downtime with the hearing aids. Improvements in hearing aid management for those most vulnerable to dementia will provide a clearer view of how hearing aids can help with dementia.

Ethics: How can we find out if hearing loss does cause dementia?

Research is sometimes fraught with real ethical problems. It would not be ethical to create a control group of vulnerable non-hearing aid users, and compare their cognitive outcomes over 10 years against hearing aid users who had the advantage of using hearing aids over time? Such a study would not be allowed by an ethics commission. Withholding beneficial treatment for the purpose of research is wrong, and most researchers, patients, advocacy groups, and policymakers agree that hearing loss is a problem we should be treating in the immediate timeframe.

There is also no need to really study this issue further than we already have, at least in terms of identifying the correlation between hearing loss and dementia. We already have a large control group to study. As mentioned earlier, there are many people who need hearing aids do not actively seek them out, and against our best clinical advice, voluntarily avoid hearing aid use for as long as possible. This is where most of our correlational findings seem to be coming from.

Controlling what we can control.

To state that ‘you will get dementia unless you buy a hearing aid’ is highly unprofessional and untrue. Yet, to state that, ‘research appears to show that hearing loss may contribute to the development of dementia’ is a fair and correct statement.

Taking control of multiple risk factors within our control is the best way to reduce our risk of dementia. The Alzheimer's society in the UK has a great list of lifestyle choices and habits that can be adopted to reduce the risk of dementia.

https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/about-dementia/managing-the-risk-of-dementia/reduce-your-risk-of-dementia

They include:

Getting regular exercise
Reducing alcohol intake
Quitting smoking
Managing mental health problems
Making efforts to be socially involved.
Manage long term health conditions:
Obesity
Cholesterol
High blood pressure
Diabetes
Protect yourself against head injuries
Managing hearing loss
Managing vision problems
Trying to reduce exposure to air pollution.

Hearing Aids & Their Potential to Help

The most common and successful treatment for hearing loss is well-fitted hearing aids. These days, hearing aids are sleek, barely noticeable, ear-level devices with all the automation and convenience a person might need to make things easier. In one large study published in the Lancet in 2023, hearing aid use was associated with a 48% reduction in cognitive decline over three years compared to no hearing aid use at all. When properly and expertly fitted, hearing aids may reduce the risk of hearing loss-related dementia.

Audiology First - True Hearing Care in Lethbridge & Southern Alberta

As Lethbridge's only independent audiology clinic, we are committed to following best practices and providing a level of care recognized province wide. We fit every hearing aid with the brain in mind and apply our own evidenced-based research to continually push the field forward.

There’s a big difference between all-inclusive hearing healthcare and a clinic that is simply selling hearing aids. Audiology First is that difference, and we always strive to provide our patients with the latest technology and treatment approaches.

Evidence-Based Hearing Aid Fittings at Audiology First

If you have hearing aids and are not currently using them, the clinic that provided them may not have followed the most up-to-date and best hearing care practices. Satisfaction with hearing aids can be quite low, likely since only about 30% of hearing aids dispensed are fitted with evidence-based methods.

If you need or wear hearing aids, we will ensure you get the most out of them. We will also retune hearing aids purchased elsewhere—at no charge. Come visit us today at Audiology First to take back your hearing health and find the solution that is right for you.

References

1. Aranda MP, Kremer IN, Hinton L, Zissimopoulos J, Whitmer RA, Hummel CH, Trejo L, Fabius C. Impact of dementia: Health disparities, population trends, care interventions, and economic costs. J Am Geriatr Soc. 2021 Jul;69(7):1774-1783. doi: 10.1111/jgs.17345. PMID: 34245588; PMCID: PMC8608182.

2. Avierinos, R. J., Beukes, E., Manchaiah, V., Oosthuizen, I., le Roux, T., & Swanepoel, D. W. (2024). Meaningful life changes following hearing aid use: a qualitative user perspective. International Journal of Audiology, 1–10. https://doi.org/10.1080/14992027.2024.2376043

3. Chern A, Golub JS. Age-related Hearing Loss and Dementia. Alzheimer Dis Assoc Disord. 2019 Jul-Sep;33(3):285-290. doi: 10.1097/WAD.0000000000000325. PMID: 31335455; PMCID: PMC7749722

4. Cohen-Mansfield J, Taylor JW. Hearing aid use in nursing homes. Part 1: Prevalence rates of hearing impairment and hearing aid use. J Am Med Dir Assoc. 2004 Sep-Oct;5(5):283-8. PMID: 15357885.

5. Gill Livingston, Jonathan Huntley, Andrew Sommerlad, David Ames, Clive Ballard, Sube Banerjee, Carol Brayne, Alistair Burns,Jiska Cohen-Mansfield,Claudia Cooper,Sergi G Costafreda,Amit Dias,Nick Fox,Laura N Gitlin,Robert Howard,Helen C Kales,Mika Kivimäki et al. Dementia prevention, intervention, and care: 2020 report of the Lancet Commission. The Lancet 8–14 August 2020 vol. 396 issue 10248 Licensed Content Pages 34 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7392084/

6. https://publichealth.jhu.edu/2023/new-study-links-hearing-loss-with-dementia-in-older-adults

7. Kiely KM, Gopinath B, Mitchell P, Browning CJ, Anstey KJ. Evaluating a dichotomized measure of self-reported hearing loss against gold standard audiometry: prevalence estimates and age bias in a pooled national data set. J Aging Health. 2012;24(3):439-458. doi: 10.1177/0898264311425088

8. Kitterick PT, Ferguson MA. Hearing Aids and Health-Related Quality of Life in Adults with Hearing Loss. JAMA. 2018;319(21):2225–2226. doi:10.1001/jama.2018.5567

9. Lin FR, Pike JR, Albert MS, Arnold M, Burgard S, Chisolm T, Couper D, Deal JA, Goman AM, Glynn NW, Gmelin T, Gravens-Mueller L, Hayden KM, Huang AR, Knopman D, Mitchell CM, Mosley T, Pankow JS, Reed NS, Sanchez V, Schrack JA, Windham BG, Coresh J; Hearing intervention versus health education control to reduce cognitive decline in older adults with hearing loss in the USA (ACHIEVE): a multicentre, randomised controlled trial. ACHIEVE Collaborative Research Group. Lancet. 2023 Jul 17:S0140-6736(23)01406-X. doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(23)01406-X. Online ahead of print. PMID: 37478886 https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(23)01406-X/abstract

10. Loughrey DG, Kelly ME, Kelley GA, Brennan S, Lawlor BA. Association of age-related hearing loss with cognitive function, cognitive impairment, and dementia: a systematic review and meta-analysis [published online December 7, 2017]. JAMA Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. doi:10.1001/jamaoto.2017.2513 https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaotolaryngology/fullarticle/2665726

11. Marcos-Alonso, S., Almeida-Ayerve, C. N., Monopoli-Roca, C., Coronel-Touma, G. S., Pacheco-López, S., Peña-Navarro, P., Serradilla-López, J. M., Sánchez-Gómez, H., Pardal-Refoyo, J. L., & Batuecas-Caletrío, Á. (2023). Factors Impacting the Use or Rejection of Hearing Aids-A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Journal of clinical medicine, 12(12), 4030. https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm12124030

12. Mary Kaland and Kate Salvatore (2002) The Psychology of Hearing Loss. The ASHA Leader Volume 7, Number 5 Pages 4-15 https://doi.org/10.1044/leader.FTR1.07052002.4

13. Mick P, Kawachi I, Lin FR. The association between hearing loss and social isolation in older adults. Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2014;150(3):378–384.

14. Peelle JE, Troiani V, Grossman M, Wingfield A. Hearing loss in older adults affects neural systems supporting speech comprehension. J Neurosci. 2011;31(35):12638–12643

15. Saunders GH, Lewis MS, Forsline A. Expectations, prefitting counseling, and hearing aid outcome. J Am Acad Audiol. 2009 May;20(5):320-34. doi: 10.3766/jaaa.20.5.6. PMID: 19585963. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19585963/

16. Shukla A, Harper M, Pedersen E, Goman A, Suen JJ, Price C, Applebaum J, Hoyer M, Lin FR, Reed NS. Hearing Loss, Loneliness, and Social Isolation: A Systematic Review. Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2020 May;162(5):622-633. doi: 10.1177/0194599820910377. Epub 2020 Mar 10. PMID: 32151193; PMCID: PMC8292986.

17. Strawbridge WJ, Wallhagen MI, Shema SJ, Kaplan GA. Negative consequences of hearing impairment in old age: a longitudinal analysis. Gerontologist. 2000 Jun;40(3):320-6. doi: 10.1093/geront/40.3.320. PMID: 10853526.

18. Tun PA, McCoy S, Wingfield A. Aging, hearing acuity, and the attentional costs of effortful listening. Psychol Aging. 2009;24(3):761–766.

19. Wang HF, Zhang W, Rolls ET; Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative; Li Y, Wang L, Ma YH, Kang J, Feng J, Yu JT, Cheng W. Hearing impairment is associated with cognitive decline, brain atrophy and tau pathology. EBioMedicine. 2022 Dec;86:104336. doi: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2022.104336. Epub 2022 Nov 7. PMID: 36356475; PMCID: PMC9649369. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36356475/

20. Wei J, Hu Y, Zhang L, Hao Q, Yang R, Lu H, Zhang X, Chandrasekar EK. Hearing Impairment, Mild Cognitive Impairment, and Dementia: A Meta-Analysis of Cohort Studies. Dement Geriatr Cogn Dis Extra. 2017 Dec 21;7(3):440-452. doi: 10.1159/000485178. PMID: 29430246; PMCID: PMC5806170.

Got an Ear Full? Here's Some Advice for Ear Wax Removal

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 14:45:03 GMT

Ear wax (cerumen; its medical term) is a naturally occurring substance with an important job—it protects and cleans your ear canals! ear wax removal is also usually naturally occurring, but doesn’t always happen the way it’s supposed to. This can lead to accumulation, hardening, and blockages (also known as impaction). It’s not uncommon, either. About 5% of adults and over 50% of seniors are dealing with this problem at any given time.

At Audiology First, we are cognisant of this issue in the general population, and would like to help educate the public on how they can be proactive when it comes to ear wax removal, both at-home and in-clinic. This is useful information for everybody to learn; let’s explore how to safely remove ear wax at home and understand when you should see a professional.

Safe At-Home Removal Methods

In many cases of mild ear wax buildup, there are safe, gentle, easy-to-follow methods that you can try at home! However, if you have severe ear pain, signs of infection, symptoms of eardrum rupture, or if you’ve had ear surgery, home removal should be avoided (these cases require professional care).

Here are some step-by-step ear wax removal tips you can start using today:

Soften the Wax

Take a few drops of baby oil, mineral oil, or a 50/50 mix of hydrogen peroxide and water into the affected ear. By using about two warm drops (twice a day for up to five days) it can help loosen up hardened wax. You want to make sure the liquid is at body temperature, as cold liquid can cause discomfort and/or dizziness.

Gently Rinse the Ear

After softening the wax, use warm (not hot) water to help flush it out. To do this simply at home, let warm water flow into your ear while you’re showering, then just tilt your head to drain it out. This kind of gentle flushing can help remove any wax that you’ve loosened up.

Dry the Ear

After rinsing, you’re going to want to pat the outer ear dry with a soft towel. There can be an urge to dig into the ear while drying, but this is something you want to avoid. Keep things gentle and on the outside.

Use a Wax Softener if Needed

If the wax is being stubborn, you can try an over-the-counter ear wax softening drop, which is available at most pharmacies. After 1-2 days, you can use a rubber bulb ear syringe with lukewarm water to help gentle flush out the ear.

Repeat Gently if Necessary

Some scenarios may require you to repeat these steps another time. Always place an emphasis on being gentle and patient; the ear is a delicate structure that you need to be careful with. If you feel like you’re forcing it in any way, it’s better to seek professional help than to risk injury. Most minor wax buildup cases can be safely managed with the above methods.

When to See a Professional

There are several cases where ear wax removal needs to be handled by a professional. If you experience any of the following, it’s time to reach out to the expert team we have waiting for you here at Audiology First:

Severe Symptoms

Sudden significant hearing loss, fluid discharge (pus or blood), and/or intense ear pain are all telltale signs that you need to see a professional. These things could indicate an infection, eardrum injury, or other situation that requires medical attention.

Persistent Blockage or Hearing Issues

If your ears remain full, blocked, or you experience ringing (tinnitus), even after trying the above at-home treatments for a week, it’s time to book in for an appointment.

Recurring or Heavy Buildup

If ear wax buildup is a recurrent issue for you, and you often require cleanings or the use of our earlier outlined at-home steps, a professional can help assess the underlying causes. This can lead to a longer-term solution that requires less maintenance down the road.

Existing Ear Health Conditions

A history of ear surgery, perforated eardrum, ear tubes, and other such conditions mean that you should always consult a healthcare professional when it comes to ear wax removal.

Audiologists use specialized tools like suction devices, curettes, and otoscopes to remove wax safely under their direct supervision. Professional ear cleanings are quick, effective, and (in cases like we just described) sometimes the only truly safe solution.

Risk of Unsafe Removal Methods

Some of the popular ear wax removal “hacks” you see online can actually cause more harm than good—avoid the following:

Cotton Swabs (Q-tips) or Other Objects

Swabs, keys, bobby pins…don’t put them in your ears. They can actually push wax deeper, and worsen blockages to the point of even causing eardrum damage.

Ear Candling

Health Canada warns against this practice due to its serious risks. Burns, hot wax dripping into the ear, and even puncturing your eardrum are possible outcomes that can and should be avoided. It has no proven benefits, and is actually illegal to sell as a health product in Canada.

High-Pressure Irrigation Devices

Tools that exert a lot of pressure (like dental water-piks, for example) are too forceful for the delicate structures of the ear, and can easily lead to damage. Gentle rinses or professional irrigation are the only recommended ways of flushing out your ear.

Overuse of Ear Drops

Frequent drops in the ear can actually irritate the ear canal; you want to make sure you follow the recommended guidelines, and seek medical advice if you find you’re having to frequently resort to drops for ear wax removal.

ear wax is a natural, protective substance that usually takes care of itself. But when it doesn’t, it can cause problems. Safe home removal techniques can help in mild cases, but if you experience persistent symptoms, severe pain, or recurrent buildup, seeking professional help is the best choice.

Not sure if your ears are in the clear? Let our experts at Audiology First take a look! Our team can safely remove excessive ear wax and get you back to comfortable, clear hearing. Book an appointment online with us today!

Incorporating New Accessories into Modern Hearing Aid Technology

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 15:15:50 GMT

What began as clunky pieces of technology has transformed into the sleek, tech-packed hearing aid devices we see on the market today; capable of syncing with phones and other smart devices with ease. This kind of trend is ever-growing in the industry as our lives become more and more connected.

How have these advancements in technology changed the way we deal with hearing loss? That’s exactly what we’re going to explore together in this article!

Audiology First has always been at the forefront of hearing health and wellness—and we’re here to help you understand what’s available to you + how these devices can help improve overall quality of life!

The Evolution of Hearing Aids

Historical Perspective

Early hearing aids were awkward. Big hunks of metal or horn-shaped ear trumpets that looked more like movie props than actual life-serving tools. They had one goal (and they achieved it): amplify sound. Which sound? Every sound. This didn’t exactly go over well for early users…but these early devices laid the groundwork for what was to come…

Vacuum tubes and transistors came along to change the game in the 1920s and ‘50s, respectively. Suddenly, hearing devices were starting to gain respect from the general public, and actually make a noticeable difference in people’s lives.

Current Trends

Has the trend continued in the hearing aid space? Most definitely. Today’s hearing aids are tiny, discreet, and packed with modern technology. Bluetooth connectivity, smartphone syncing/compatibility, and even AI is being used to help people figure out what they would want to hear in different environments.

Accessories now play a vital role in this evolution, offering users a more holistic hearing solution tailored to their unique needs and environments…

Modern Accessories Enhancing Hearing Aids

You might be asking, “What are hearing aid accessories?” Basically, these are add-ons designed to boost functionality and comfort for the user. Remote controls, streaming devices, additional microphones, and custom ear molds all fall under this category. Each is crafted to make the hearing aid more versatile and user-friendly.

A More Detailed Look…

Remote Control & Apps

Remote controls and smartphone apps eliminate the need to try and tinker with tiny buttons on your hearing aids. It’s far more convenient, allows for better tuning, and helps to avoid drawing attention to the ears during everyday interactions.

External Microphones & Streaming Devices

Noisy environments make hearing supplementation tricky. External microphones help a person zero in on a speaker’s voice by delivering clearer audio straight to the hearing aid. Streaming devices take this a step further, allowing users to enjoy show or music wirelessly!

Additional Customization

Custom ear molds can increase sound quality by providing a better fit, tailor-made to the shape of a person’s ear. This becomes especially noticeable when working with the hearing aid across a range of different environments; from windy parks to quiet office spaces.

Integration With Smartphones & Bluetooth

The Role of Smartphones

App-based controls make adjusting one’s hearing aid settings as easy as checking a text message. This has significantly improved the user-interface of hearing aids, allowing people to make real-time tweaks and even create personalized sound profiles. Even troubleshooting has received an upgrade—problems can often be solved remotely through software updates and modifications.

Bluetooth Connectivity

Bluetooth technology is really the framework behind these innovative connections, allowing hearing aids to connect seamlessly to your phone, tablet, or even TV. The benefits stretch as far as you can imagine; stream phone calls, podcasts or ambient sounds straight into the ears without any extra gadgets.

Practical Applications

From wading through office chatter in a business meeting to adjusting for wind on a long hike in the mountains, modern hearing aid accessories and technology help people to be fully integrated with the world around them. Clarity and comfort are no longer optional nice-to-haves—they are available for everyone, and getting more affordable every year.

User Benefits & Future Trends

Real-world practicality is the only real metric someone using modern hearing aids will care about. We’re lucky to live in a time where there have never been more options available to patients when it comes to improving their hearing.

Sharper audio quality
Easier control
Syncing w/smart devices
Greater independence
Hands-free control

Having a hearing aid no longer has to interrupt your work, leisure time, or personal life. These modern advancements translate to real-world wins that will help you live life to your fullest each and every day!

Future Innovations

What’s next in the world of hearing aids? AI is definitely going to be making a bigger impact in the near future. Smarter adjustments, optimized noise reduction, and faster syncing with your devices is sure to continue pushing modern hearing aid technology towards a better experience at an even cheaper price point!

From their humble beginnings to today’s high-tech products, hearing aids have undergone a remarkable transformation. Modern accessories and Bluetooth-smartphone integration are at the heart of this shift, delivering unmatched performance and convenience to patients across Canada and the world.

Ready to hear the difference? Explore more at Audiology First —Southern Alberta’s #1 audiology clinic. Schedule an appointment with us today!

Understanding the Degrees of Hearing Loss

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 21:15:40 GMT

It’s easy to take hearing for granted. As soon as you experience symptoms of hearing loss, however, you realize what a vital and integrated sense your hearing actually is. This is the case for millions of people across the world, and it often comes on gradually, making changes in hearing hard to perceive. Understanding the degrees of hearing loss is the first step in making change—that’s what we’re going to explore today.

Audiology First in Lethbridge can help you regain clarity and confidence in your hearing. Let’s learn about the four degrees of hearing loss, their causes, and how our clinic can help mitigate issues, find solutions, and improve your quality of life.

What Are the Degrees of Hearing Loss?

There is not a one-size-fits-all definition for hearing loss. In audiology, we start by categorizing it into one of four degrees of hearing loss: mild, moderate, severe, or profound. We’ll now talk about what each of these feels like, and the impact it can have on someone experiencing it.

Mild Hearing Loss

Individuals with mild hearing loss might struggle to hear soft sounds or understand speech in noisy environments. They often have difficulty following conversations when multiple people are speaking or when the speaker's voice is faint.

What it feels like: You may struggle to hear faint sounds or soft conversations, especially in noisy environments.
Impact: While you can follow most conversations, background noise makes it harder to understand others clearly.

Moderate Hearing Loss

This degree of hearing loss makes it challenging to hear normal conversations, even in quieter settings. People with moderate hearing loss often need hearing aids to understand speech clearly or to avoid constantly asking others to repeat themselves.

What it feels like: Conversations in quiet settings become more challenging, and you may often ask people to repeat what they just said.
Impact: You may find yourself avoiding noisy social settings, which can lead to frustration or isolation.

Severe Hearing Loss

Severe hearing loss significantly impairs the ability to hear most sounds, including normal speech, without amplification. People with this level of hearing loss typically rely heavily on hearing aids, assistive devices, or lip reading to communicate effectively.

What it feels like: Without the help of amplification, normal conversations are nearly impossible to follow.
Impact: Communication heavily relies on lip-reading, visual cues, or assistive devices.

Profound Hearing Loss

With profound hearing loss, individuals cannot hear most sounds, even very loud ones. Communication often requires cochlear implants, sign language, or other specialized forms of support, as hearing aids may offer limited assistance.

What it feels like: Sounds are difficult or impossible to hear, even with amplification.
Impact: Daily communication often requires sign language or advanced assistive technology.

What Causes Hearing Loss?

Hearing loss can result from a variety of factors, ranging from lifestyle choices to underlying medical conditions. Understanding the causes can help in preventing or managing hearing difficulties. Some of the most common causes include:

Age-related hearing loss ( Presbycusis ): A gradual decline in hearing ability as you age.
Noise exposure: Damage caused by repeated exposure to loud sounds, whether from work environments or personal activities (like listening to music). For example, those in the construction industry working around loud machinery and equipment are at higher risk.
Medical conditions: Infections, certain medications, or illnesses that impact the auditory system.
Genetic factors: Hereditary predispositions to hearing impairment.

Regular hearing assessments are important for early detection of these underlying causes. The quicker we can identify the root cause, the quicker we can start to implement a personal treatment plan tailored to the unique needs of the individual.

The Impact of Hearing Loss on Daily Life

What many people don’t realize is how far-reaching the effects of hearing loss can have on a person’s life. Consider the following…

Hearing loss can be the source of misunderstandings and other difficulties in group settings. Social interactions of any kind, as a result, can start to become intimidating, frustrating, and undesirable. A person with hearing loss may begin to feel like a burden around others, and start to withdraw from more and more social situations as time goes on.

This behaviour can start to snowball in various ways; feelings of isolation and loneliness are all-too-common accompaniments, which can have severe effects on a person’s emotional health , for example. This can trickly into one’s professional life , disrupting workflow and coworker relationships.

The good news is that properly addressing hearing loss can significantly improve these aspects of life. Let us help you do it.

How Audiology First Can Help

The team here at Audiology First is dedicated to helping you hear better. There’s a reason we’re known as the most trusted and reputable audiology clinic in Southern Alberta. Our services include:

Comprehensive Hearing Assessments

Composed of at least seven different tests, our team takes the most thorough approach possible to get a clear understanding of your unique hearing health profile using the latest technology in the industry. We also offer ‘baseline tests’ often requested for jobs that use loud equipment or individuals working in the armed forces.

Tailored Hearing Solutions

If hearing aids or other assistive devices are necessary, our team has the experience to help you determine what technology will provide the best sound while being the least intrusive in your everyday routines. Custom fittings, quality control, and thorough examinations of every product we recommend.

Ongoing Support & Care

Audiology First is an integral part of your healthcare team. We proudly provide ongoing support, guidance, and rehabilitation beyond the initial treatment for hearing loss. Our goal is to ensure the long term comfort, satisfaction, and success of our patients. Your life changes, and we’ll make sure your treatment plan changes with it.

With a commitment to quality care, Audiology First in Lethbridge is here to help you reconnect with the world of sound. Don’t let hearing loss hold you back—take the first step toward better hearing today. Give us a call or book an appointment online .

Ways to Overcome Reduced Family Involvement Due to Hearing Loss

Mon, 23 Dec 2024 17:50:09 GMT

Did you know that entire families can be affected by hearing loss? It’s not just the individual who is having trouble hearing—it’s the effects of that strain which can reverberate through relationships and cause lasting ripples in communication and understanding.

Affecting approximately 20% of people between the ages of 19 and 79, hearing loss has the likelihood of touching your life in one way or another. The less talked about impacts being the strain it can put on relationships, and the feelings of isolation and distance created as a result.

Understanding the different sides of this issue allows us as audiologists to implement practical strategies for individuals and families alike; real work that helps to (re)build, maintain, and improve the livelihoods of those we serve. Let’s explore a few of them now.

The Emotional Impact of Hearing Loss on Families

Hearing loss can disrupt normal family dynamics in a number of ways.

Difficulty understanding conversations can lead to feelings of exclusion and frustration; social activities that once brought joy may begin to feel overwhelming and cause some to withdraw. This can quickly become a vicious spiral, where an individual retreats further and further into their own recesses, all without feeling understood by those around them.

Speaking of those around them—hurdles for relatives, friends, and colleagues have their own unique set of challenges. Feelings of helplessness and resentment can begin to build over time as hearing loss wedges itself further between the one(s) affected and all the people they interact with on a daily basis.

These types of issues can weaken social and familial bonds over time, as the tensive nature tends to have a corrosive component.

Communication Strategies for Families

Making a difference in the relationships with those experiencing hearing loss doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, there are some simple things you start doing today to begin making a difference.

Key Techniques for Effective Communication

Speak slowly and clearly without shouting. Speaking louder isn’t always the answer—it can actually distort the sound, making comprehension harder. Carefully articulate your words with proper enunciation before raising the volume.
Make sure your face is visible. We take for granted how many cues we pick up from lip-reading and facial expressions. For people with hearing loss, these cues are particularly helpful in understanding what another person is saying.
Avoid talking over one another. For someone with hearing loss, multiple voices speaking at once can be extremely difficult to discern. Clear, concise communication is key. Give them the space to talk, and try your best to avoid interruption.
Ask for feedback to confirm understanding. It’s important to make sure the two of you stay aligned throughout the interaction. Asking questions like, “Does that make sense?” or repeating back what they said in your own words are great places to start.

Active Listening Techniques

Two other powerful techniques can make a major difference in your conversations with someone who is experiencing hearing loss; eye contact and patience .

Maintaining eye contact signals attentiveness and helps the speaker to feel supported and listened to throughout the conversation. This in itself can break down barriers of hesitation and distrust that the speaker may have built up over time, especially if they haven’t received that kind of attention from other people in their life.

Being patient also has its place here. People with hearing loss may need a bit more time than others to understand what you’re saying. While it may feel like you want to speed up the conversation, it’s actually likely that you’ll save time (and stress) by not having to repeat yourself. Take a calm and understanding approach to see your conversations improve immediately.

Adjusting the Environment

There are things you can do beyond your speech and behaviour to improve communication, some of which involve manipulating the environment around you.

Reduce Background Noise: Turn off the TV, music, phone, and any other distractions during discussions to increase the likelihood of optimal hearing.
Ensure Good Lighting: Better visibility means better perception and understanding; we have to see what makes up the bulk of our communication, which is non-verbal (body language, lip movements, etc.).

Using Technology to Bridge Communication Gaps

Modern technology offers numerous tools to enhance communication for families dealing with hearing loss:

Assistive Devices

Hearing aids, captioned telephones, and personal amplifiers can help people with hearing loss hear more clearly.

Smartphone Apps

Apps offering real-time captions and voice amplification are becoming increasingly accessible and user-friendly.

Regular Hearing Check-Ups

Getting regular hearing check-ups can help detect changes in your hearing, as well as mitigate the development of minor issues into serious conditions.

Encouraging Empathy and Effort from Family Members

Small behavioral changes can make a significant impact on someone with hearing loss. Families should prioritize open conversations about the challenges they face and explore solutions together. Encourage empathy by putting yourself in their shoes—imagine the difficulty of following conversations in a noisy room or missing out on a family joke. A little patience and understanding go a long way in creating an inclusive environment for all.

Overcoming the challenges of hearing loss requires shared effort, empathy, and consistent communication strategies. With the help of assistive technology, active listening, and a supportive family environment, it’s possible to build stronger relationships and reduce the emotional toll of hearing loss.

For personalized advice and solutions, schedule a consultation with Audiology First.

Together, we can take control of your hearing health and build a plan that’s right for you.

Selecting the Right Hearing Care Professional: Why Qualifications and Best Practices Matter

Mon, 23 Dec 2024 17:42:33 GMT

Hearing loss, despite its widespread prevalence across the globe, often goes untreated or, at the very least, improperly managed. Seeking professional care is an important part of improving your hearing health and quality of life, which makes choosing a qualified hearing care professional not just important, but essential.

Knowing just a little about the qualifications and best practices of audiologists can help you make an informed choice about your hearing health and healthcare provider. We want to help you make that choice, and ensure that you receive the best possible care for your needs.

Audiology First is widely regarded as the premier audiology clinic in Southern Alberta—here’s why.

Understanding Hearing Care Professionals

First, a look at the difference in hearing care professional qualifications…

Audiologists

Audiologists are highly trained professionals who specialize in diagnosing and managing hearing and balance disorders. They undergo extensive education, and are equipped to handle the complex and unique needs of patients. Audiologists also collaborate with other healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive care, as hearing health can be indicative of other health problems, and/or otherwise have far-reaching effects on a person’s quality of life. The expertise of an audiologist makes them ideal for addressing intricate conditions such as tinnitus, auditory processing disorders, and severe hearing loss.

Hearing Aid Practitioners

Hearing aid practitioners focus on hearing assessments and the fitting of hearing aids. While their training is less extensive compared to audiologists, they play a critical role in helping individuals select and adjust a hearing apparatus that suits their needs. They are excellent resources for those primarily seeking assistance with hearing aid selection and maintenance, but will refer more complex cases to (and work in concert with) an audiologist.

Importance of Best Practices

Adherence to best practices in hearing care significantly enhances patient outcomes. These include comprehensive hearing evaluations, personalized treatment plans, and ongoing patient education. By prioritizing thorough assessments and individualized care, hearing professionals ensure patients receive the most effective solutions for their unique hearing needs. Clinics like Audiology First exemplify these standards, providing industry-leading care that improves a patient’s hearing and quality of life.

Meet the Audiology First Team

Let us introduce you to our exceptional team.

Glenn Hole, Clinic Director and Owner

Glenn Hole leads Audiology First with an impressive educational background:

Bachelor of Science in Audiology from Bristol University
Master of Science in Clinical Audiology from Salus University
Currently pursuing his Doctor of Audiology (AuD) degree (expected in 2025)

Glenn’s dedication to lifelong learning fuels his commitment to delivering top-tier care. His research interests and patient-focused philosophy make him an industry leader in audiology.

Joseph Tomlinson, Registered Hearing Aid Practitioner

With over a decade of experience, Joseph Tomlinson brings invaluable expertise to Audiology First. Holding a Bachelor of Science in Hearing Sciences from Anglia Ruskin University, Joseph has mentored aspiring audiologists for over 10 years. He always seeks to provide the highest level of empathetic care, informed by his personal experience as a parent of a child with profound hearing loss. His deep understanding of patient needs ensures that every individual receives the compassionate and effective attention they deserve.

Shibna Kunhimon, Audiologist

Trained as an audiologist in India, Shibna Kunhimon adds a wealth of clinical expertise and patient perspective to the team. Her experience in a busy specialist clinic allows her to address a wide range of hearing concerns with both precision and care. Shibna’s diverse skill set enriches Audiology First’s ability to serve patients with varied needs and backgrounds.

You can learn more about the team at Audiology First here .

Audiology First's Commitment to Best Practices

Audiology First is dedicated to prioritizing patient needs above all else—we work extremely hard to foster a culture of care that emphasizes quality over sales. The clinic’s adherence to best practices, such as providing accurate hearing assessments and offering referrals where necessary, ensures patients receive the highest standard of care.

The ability of a clinic to support their clinicians, and create an environment where these standards are upheld, leads to better patient satisfaction and treatment outcomes. These are the exact conditions we strive for each and every day here at Audiology First.

Learn more about why Audiology First is the preferred choice for hearing care here.

Understanding the qualifications of hearing care professionals is essential for effectively addressing your hearing loss or the hearing loss of those you love. Choosing a clinic with a well-trained and diversely qualified staff is important for receiving the levels of care you need, want, and deserve.

Opt for a professional and personalized experience like the one we provide here at Audiology First—schedule a consultation with our expert team today!

The Benefits of Choosing an Audiologist Over Non-Prescription Hearing Devices in Lethbridge

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 16:38:01 GMT

Hearing loss affects millions of people worldwide, and almost 40% of Canadians. As awareness grows, so does the availability of solutions in the market. Over-the-counter (OTC), non-prescription, mail order, and other unregulated hearing devices might seem like a convenient and inexpensive option, but if you’re looking for optimal hearing health, consulting a trusted audiologist offers unparalleled benefits.

The team here at Audiology First is ready to provide you with the highest level of healthcare in Southern Alberta—something that self-managed solutions just can’t compare to.

It is possible to purchase unregulated hearing devices online in Canada, but they aren't the same as OTC hearing aids or prescription hearing aids. Let’s take a look at the difference.

What Are OTC Hearing Aids?

In the USA, hearing aids are regulated by the FDA, with over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids being approved for sale two years ago. However, despite this approval, OTC hearing aids have not been popular with consumers. A 2023 survey by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) found that only 2% of hearing aids purchased in the USA were OTC products. Furthermore, approximately one-third of those who purchased OTC hearing aids returned them for a full refund—between twice to three times the return rate of prescription hearing aids

With this in mind, let’s now learn about the different types of hearing loss, and why it’s important to see an audiologist regardless.

Understanding Hearing Loss

When people think of hearing loss, they typically just think that the volume needs to be turned up—but that’s far from the whole story. Did you know there are different types of hearing loss that audiologists are trained to identify? Let’s learn about them.

Types of Hearing Loss

Sensory Hearing Loss results from damage to the inner ear only, rather than the auditory nerve or brain. Sensory hearing loss often occurs due to aging, noise exposure, genetic factors, or even certain medications. Some people are born with forms of sensory hearing loss, while most people develop the problem over time. This type of hearing loss is typically permanent and is the most common form of hearing loss.

In our own extensive experience of testing self-fitted hearing devices in our own clinic, they routinely under-serve the person’s sensory hearing loss. In some rare cases, they can be far too loud – even to the point where they could damage an individual’s hearing. An audiologist is trained to precisely fit the hearing aid to every patient, based on experience and skill.

Neurological Hearing Loss (also known as retrocochlear hearing loss) is quite rare compared to other types of hearing loss, but to audiologists, cases of neurological hearing loss are a major medical concern.

Neurological hearing loss occurs when the auditory nerve is damaged or affected, making it difficult to transmit sound from the inner ear to the brain. Neurological forms of hearing loss can stem from life-altering medical conditions. Some causes of neurological hearing loss include brain or inner ear infections, brain damage from head injuries, vascular and metabolic condition, certain medications, aging, demyelinating diseases like multiple sclerosis, auditory neuropathy, or tumours compressing the auditory nerve, or the brainstem.

Misdiagnosis of neurological loss as a sensory loss is on the list of 'worst—case-scenarios' for audiologists. This is of major concern when it comes to an individual choosing to self-diagnose and self-fit hearing devices, because that individual may not receive the medical diagnosis and treatment they require.

Conductive Hearing Loss occurs when sound cannot efficiently pass through the outer or middle ear. Common causes include ear infections, fluid buildup, or blockages like earwax. This type of hearing loss can resolve on its own but is also the most likely type of hearing loss to require medical attention. Some forms of conductive loss can be treated with surgery, such as otosclerosis. Non-prescription – self fitted hearing aids cannot tell the difference between a hearing loss because of a middle ear tumour, an ear needing surgery, or an earwax buildup.

Mixed Hearing Loss is a combination of conductive and sensory or neural hearing loss, indicating issues in both the outer/middle and inner ear; causes can vary in combination.

As you can imagine, the treatment for each type of hearing loss can (and should) be well understood, and the treatment should be specific. Your audiologist can help prescribe the most appropriate treatment plan to prioritize your overall health.

As you can imagine, the treatment for each type of hearing loss can (and should) be different. Your audiologist can help prescribe the most appropriate treatment plan to prioritize your health.

The Role of an Audiologist

Audiologists don’t just sell hearing aids. Audiologists are diagnosticians—they find the root cause of the hearing problem, rather than just treating the symptoms. Not identifying the cause of the hearing problem could lead to complications that are less treatable. Misdiagnosis or inadequate self treatment can exacerbate your current hearing loss. In short, avoiding the audiologist may not be worth the risk.

Audiology First is the #1 audiology clinic in Southern Alberta, here are some of the services we offer our patients to provide them with the utmost level of care and attention:

Hearing assessments
Personalized treatment plans
Advanced technology (including Otoscan; digital 3D imaging)
Ongoing support

Apart from hearing loss, audiologists also address related issues like tinnitus (ringing in the ears), balance disorders, and hyperacusis (increased sensitivity to environmental sounds). This level of attention helps protect against long-term health interruptions by rounding out your healthcare with a dedicated specialist who knows and cares about you.

Limitations of Non-Prescription Hearing Devices

If you think you’re getting a deal by going with unregulated hearing aids…think again! While they’re often marketed as a quick-fix that won’t break the bank, they come with significant drawbacks that can potentially stagnate or worsen your health.

Inadequate Amplification

Without professional calibration and programming, non-prescription hearing devices are prone to amplifying sounds unevenly, which can make it difficult to understand people’s speech in noisy environments. This can also be disorienting and stressful for someone already experiencing hearing loss or other hearing-related conditions.

Improper Fit & Lack of Guidance

Non-prescription hearing devices try to offer a one-size-fits-all solution, but are you a one-size-fits-all person? Of course not. You have unique needs that deserve attention, and these devices just don’t meet the standard. No professional fitting. No guidance on care and proper use. Any costs saved upfront will most definitely be collected in the near-future.

Missed Medical Issues

Perhaps the most notable disadvantage to non-prescription hearing devices is that they can be the cause of missed medical issues that could’ve been caught with a regular checkup. Without a thorough evaluation from an audiologist, underlying medical conditions that are contributing to your hearing loss might go unnoticed.

Benefits of Choosing an Audiologist

Seeing one of our incredible audiologists for your hearing care delivers numerous advantages over non-prescription hearing devices.

Personalized Care, Treatment & Attention

Our audiologists strive to deliver the utmost in quality care to every patient that walks through our doors. Nobody is the same, and we treat everyone the way they should be treated—like an individual.

Quality Assessment & Advanced Technology

Based on a thorough selection of assessments, we will provide hearing aids and/or other treatment options that have been calibrated for the best fit, performance, and cost-savings. We have the latest technology in audiology, including Otoscan, the latest tool in 3D imaging.

Holistic Approach + Ongoing Support

Our team is highly-trained and ready to assist you with different hearing-related issues, such as tinnitus or vestibular disorders. Comprehensive care means addressing additional concerns and caring about who you are, not just putting band aids on symptoms. We’re here for you every step of the way, from first appointment to follow-ups to ongoing care.

Real Stories from Our Patients

Take a look at what one of our recent patients had to say about their experience here at Audiology First:

“Great service! Very knowledgeable and professional about hearing loss and hearing aids. State of the art equipment to help detect the levels of hearing loss. Highly Recommended! I recommend them to all my family and friends.” —Kay R.

When it comes to your hearing health, there is no substitute for qualified and professional care. Non-prescription hearing devices make a lot of promises, but fall short on almost all of them. Trust the professionals with your health.

Book in with one of our audiologists here at Audiology First, Southern Alberta’s #1 audiology clinic. Give us a call today: 403-394-9903

Why Choose Audiology First: Comprehensive Hearing Assessments

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 22:28:15 GMT

Audiology First is a premier provider of hearing assessments in Lethbridge—we’re dedicated to delivering the best individualized care to every patient we see. In today’s world (and historically), hearing health is (and has been) overlooked, and that’s something we want to change. Every person has unique hearing needs, and our expert team is here to cater to them.

Tailored hearing assessments are an important part of every health plan. They’re essential to help identify specific issues and improve quality of life at any age. Our commitment to personalized care gives every patient the attention they deserve, and the opportunity for a better life.

Comprehensive Hearing Assessments

Personalized Approach

At Audiology First, our comprehensive assessments are tailored to each individual's unique hearing profile—and no two patients are alike. To ensure a precise diagnosis and effective treatment plan, we assess each person’s distinct hearing profile and take into account things like lifestyle, health history, and specific hearing needs. This personalized approach not only leads to more accurate diagnoses, but also helps to build trust and confidence between you, your audiologist, and the care that is being provided.

Advanced Technology

As a state-of-the-art audiology clinic, we use the latest technology to enhance our assessment process and optimize patient comfort. Our facility features advanced tools such as 3D imaging and full frequency audiometry, which allow for detailed ear assessments and accurate diagnoses of varying conditions. Being able to visualize the ear structures and measure hearing sensitivity across different frequencies allow us to get to the root cause of your challenges and provide more effective treatment long-term.

Diverse & Specialized Services

Our clinic offerings are designed to address various hearing concerns and with the highest standard of care. We believe that ongoing support and education are important parts of ensuring the long-term benefits of treatment. We provide patients with the resources they need to make informed decisions about what we talk about in-clinic and what they can do to continue that care at home and in their daily life.

Some of our standard tests and services include:

Hearing tests
Hearing aids and fittings
Hearing aid care
Hearing loss prevention
Earwax removal
Full frequency audiometry
Speech-in-noise testing

Plus, we also offer more specialized diagnostics and solutions:

Otoscan 3D imaging
Tinnitus specialists
DPOAE testing (evaluates inner ear hair cell function)
Acoustic reflex testing (assesses brainstem function)
TEN testing (identifies damaged areas in the cochlea)
Auditory processing assessments
Balance screenings
Sensory Acuity Level testing (establishes type of hearing loss)
Aided hearing tests (assesses hearing aid effectiveness)
Complex and custom hearing aid fittings

These additional tests give us the ability to be more informed on the type of hearing loss present, whether there are any other medical issues happening, who to refer to, and where to start with rehabilitation.

Personalized Treatment Plans

All of this culminates in a treatment plan designed for you . Our approach is anything but cookie-cutter, and we put the time in to craft a care package that is comprehensive and successful. Your needs, preferences, and lifestyle are all to be considered when you come in for an appointment at Audiology First, and we’re dedicated to being by your side and helping where we can along your hearing journey.

Choosing Audiology First is a choice for optimal hearing health, tailored attention and care. We are a team that strives for the utmost in professionalism, expertise, and customer service for every patient that walks through the door—it’s why we’re the #1 audiology clinic in Southern Alberta.

Your hearing health is our priority. Schedule a hearing assessment with us today and explore the comprehensive services available at Audiology First.

Meet Audiologist Shibna Kunhimon // Patient Journey

access@staynimble.co (Nimble Marketing) — Thu, 31 Oct 2024 22:51:31 GMT

But First... A Little About Me

Originally from India, I joined Audiology First in July 2023 as a Supervisee Audiologist. I hold a four-year Bachelor of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology from Kerala University of Health Sciences, Kerala, India. I have the experience of working as a clinical audiologist in an ENT clinic in Kerala for three years, before I migrated to Canada, as a permanent resident in 2019 with my family. After completing the supervised practice required by the Alberta College of Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists (ACSLPA) under the supervision of Glenn Hole, I am now a registered member of ACSLPA. I joined the team as a permanent full-time clinician in November 2023.

Working At Audiology First

My experience at Audiology First has been so enriching and fulfilling as I pride in the fact that the clinic strives hard to provide its patients with the best possible and evidence-based intervention strategies. Be it obtaining a detailed case history or comprehensive hearing assessments, hearing aid fittings and follow-up appointments or cerumen management (that’s wax removal!) we make sure that the patients leave feeling more confident, listened to and with more knowledge about their hearing loss or hearing aids.

How I Think About Hearing Care

I believe that effective communication is essential for a fulfilling life, and I strive to empower my patients by providing personalized care and support.

In my area of practice, I focus on understanding each patient’s unique needs and lifestyle. Whether it’s fitting hearing aids, offering rehabilitation strategies, or providing education on hearing health, my goal is to ensure that every patient can engage fully with the world around them.

I’m excited to work with you and help you achieve the best possible hearing outcomes!

Follow Up Visits Are Essential

Hearing aids are just the first step – Not the last.

Getting good outcomes with that hearing aid depends on careful planning, follow up and collaboration between myself and you as my patient. Here’s how we get those best outcomes together at Audiology First.

Here at Audiology First, we provide two initial follow-up appointments during your trial period with a new hearing aid. Here’s what to expect:

After your first follow up, you are then usually sent from the clinic to continue developing your skills and adapting to the hearing aid for another two weeks or so. Everyone adapts at different rates, so even if it takes a little longer in your specific case, that is fine.

Long Term Care - Our Way!

Hearing aids require maintainence and expert servicing to keep them running. Here are my tips on keeping you hearing aids in the best condition, and as sharp as the day you got them!

Perform general maintenance and cleaning of the hearing aids . Cleaning can help in the following areas:
Dust, skin cells, debris, and wax can block the tiny microphones and speakers in your hearing aids, impairing their performance. Regular cleaning can prevent these issues, ensuring optimal sound quality and longevity of your device.
Reveal hidden issues like wax build-up, debris, or foreign objects in the ear canal, which can cause irritation and reduce the effectiveness of your hearing aid use.
Monitor the battery health of rechargeable hearing aids : Over time, lithium-ion batteries lose their ability to hold a full charge, which could result in sub-optimal power throughout the day. By monitoring the battery condition, we can address any issues proactively. Bring them in to us if you feel they are running out too soon.
Monitor your hearing sensitivity: Our hearing ability can decline over time due to age and environmental factors. During routine appointments, your audiologist will assess any changes in your hearing and adjust the hearing aid settings accordingly. They can update any necessary prescriptions based on changes in hearing.

In conclusion

I hope this was informative, and I look forward to helping you or your family members hear better!

See you soon!

Shibna Kunhimon

Registered Audiologist

Shibnak@Audiologyfirst.ca

Holistic Hearing Care: A Comprehensive Approach to Wellness

Fri, 27 Sep 2024 17:34:23 GMT

The field of audiology (and the role of audiologists) has evolved significantly, even in the last decade alone. Gone are the days of simplified hearing tests and one-size-fits-all hearing aid prescriptions. At Audiology First in Lethbridge, we look at you as an individual, and take a holistic approach to your hearing care and hearing health.

It begs the question, what do we mean by holistic hearing care ?

The concept of holistic hearing care is gaining traction with patients and practitioners alike, as it emphasizes the interconnectedness of hearing, mental health, and overall well-being. Audiologists are now being recognized as integral to not just auditory health, but also mental wellness and overall quality of life. This is what we strive for with every patient here at Audiology First.

Understanding Holistic Hearing Wellness

Holistic is a word that refers to looking at the whole of what is, in this case: a human being. Not just the condition of the ear, its parts, any one particular insult or inconsistency—everything together. We recognize and understand that hearing health impacts all aspects of a person’s life, including their mental, emotional, physical, and social well-being.

Hearing loss can lead to feelings of isolation, anxiety, and even depression. What starts as a personal issue quickly becomes a social issue as a result. Untreated hearing loss can have more detrimental long-term effects in the form of cognitive decline and otherwise reduced quality of life.

By adopting a holistic approach, our audiologists aim to enhance not only hearing but life satisfaction as a whole.

Role of Audiologists in Counseling

When you visit the team here at Audiology First , we don’t simply just test your hearing (though, we will do that too!). Our clinic provides emotional support and offers practical lifestyle advice that is both easy to understand and start implementing right away. By addressing concerns like tinnitus, isolation, and stress, we help individuals manage the broader effects of hearing loss.

Holistic Approaches in Practice

To put holistic hearing care into practice, we start with creating a personalized care plan for each patient. A personalized care plan might include (but is not limited to) the following:

Hearing assessment & diagnosis
Emotional support & counseling
Stress management tips
New communication strategies
Hearing aid recommendations (if needed)
Daily hearing care guidance
Follow-up appointments

By blending traditional approaches with modern technology and perspectives, we’re able to provide a robust framework that the patient can then take, work from, and expand on in their own day-to-day life. This kind of person-centered health promotion, which places one’s well-being at the forefront, has been shown to improve patient outcomes and satisfaction.

Benefits of a Holistic Approach

By offering comprehensive care that addresses more than just auditory health, audiologists help patients achieve a higher quality of life. Whether through counseling, stress management, or the integration of technology, the goal is to enhance both hearing and emotional well-being. This all leads to a higher level of patient satisfaction .

This approach can also lead to the early detection of other health issues; hearing loss is often associated with conditions like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cognitive decline, making regular visits to an audiologist an important part of overall healthcare.

Conclusion

In today’s healthcare landscape, audiologists play a role that extends far beyond hearing tests. The work we provide to our patients through holistic hearing care touches on mental wellness, emotional health, and overall well-being. If you’re dealing with hearing issues, it’s essential to recognize how interconnected your hearing health is with your general health—and we’re here to help.

Book in with us today by scheduling a consultation at Audiology First. Experience a personalized, holistic approach to hearing wellness, and start feeling better today.

Unlock Better Hearing: Audiology First's Tech Showcase

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 15:09:39 GMT

Hearing health is an important part of our overall well-being. As one of our primary senses, it influences how we interact with the world in a profound way. Hearing loss can affect individuals at all ages, often creeping in silently and going unnoticed. This is why early detection is essential for the maintenance of a high quality of life and the prevention of more serious complications.

Audiology First is a leader for hearing care in Southern Alberta. We offer a wide selection of advanced hearing technology and hearing care services to our patients. Let’s explore some of these together and learn how we can help you and your loved ones hear better.

The Importance of Regular Hearing Tests

Hearing loss is easy to overlook; it often develops slowly, making it hard to detect until noticeable symptoms become present. Untreated hearing loss is linked to various risks, including cognitive decline (conditions like dementia , for example) and social isolation. Elderly people and individuals more frequently exposed to loud environments are at a higher risk for hearing loss than others.

Regular hearing tests are an important part of early detection and interventions, especially for those in the high-risk categories mentioned above. Scheduling these tests helps ensure that your hearing health remains intact, and allows for any timely treatment (if necessary).

What to Expect During a Hearing Test at Audiology First

Audiology First provides a number of hearing tests that extend beyond basic audiograms. When you arrive, we try to thoroughly understand the purpose of your visit, while at the same time gathering a brief medical history. This will include questions about any previous testing you’ve had done, ear injuries you’ve sustained, symptoms you’re experiencing, medications you’re on, and other factors that may be affecting your hearing.

Two of the main types of testing we administer are Baseline Tests and Complete Hearing Assessments .

Baseline Tests

Baseline tests are often used for people with jobs that have loud equipment (such as construction and military service), as well as initial screenings. These basic tests take around 15 minutes, and give us a general overview of your hearing health. They help rule out significant hearing loss and get us pointed in the right direction for more detailed and individualized testing.

Complete Hearing Assessments

Complete hearing assessments typically include 7 different tests, collectively taking around 90 minutes to complete. We cross-check the different findings and coagulate results to get an accurate, in-depth picture of your hearing health and better determine the best solutions for you moving forward.

Advanced Hearing Technology and Techniques

Our clinic uses the latest, state-of-the-art hearing technology to deliver the most precise results and accurate diagnoses to our patients. Our equipment includes the Otoscan 3D imaging system , which allows us to provide accurate ear mold impressions for a perfect fit of hearing aids. It’s tools like this that help us to provide the right diagnosis and prescription for each patient, leading to a more personalized and effective hearing health treatment plan.

Who Should Get Tested and When?

Hearing tests are recommended at different intervals depending on age, lifestyle factors, and medical conditions. They’re especially critical for those who work in loud occupational environments or have pre-existing medical conditions, as these individuals might need more frequent evaluations.

Anyone over the age of 65 should have a routine hearing test every two years. People with tinnitus are also advised to get tested every two years. Additionally, those undergoing certain types of chemotherapy or receiving treatment from an ear specialist may need more regular exams to monitor their hearing during treatment.

Even if you currently have no noticeable hearing issues, a baseline hearing test can provide valuable insight into your overall hearing health.

Audiology First's Commitment to Comprehensive Hearing Care

Audiology First is dedicated to providing you with the best quality personalized hearing care. We offer walk-in support for hearing aid care and ear clearing, and are here for any other ongoing assistance beyond your initial testing and appointment. Our experienced team is skilled in recognizing the early signs of hearing loss, and offer custom hearing protection and hearing technology to help accurately diagnose and treat you effectively.

Regular hearing tests, early detection, and the right hearing technology are all vital parts of preserving your hearing health. Don’t wait until hearing loss significantly impacts your life—contact Audiology First today to book an appointment and take the first step towards better hearing.

Audiology First

403-394-9903

#20 4051 4th Ave S, Lethbridge AB T1J 4B5

Mon - Fri: 8:30 - 16:30

Sat - Sun: Closed

Ease Strained Hearing: The Power of Modern Hearing Aids

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 16:01:53 GMT

The World Health Organization (WHO) currently estimates that more than 1.5 billion people are living with hearing loss, 430 million of which have disabling hearing loss (which warrants intervention). Shrinking this down to a local level, it means many people in our own community are struggling with the challenges of hearing strain. Audiology First is a leading audiology expert in the Lethbridge and surrounding Southern Alberta area, and we’re here to help solve this problem.

Understanding Hearing Strain

Hearing strain occurs when the auditory system becomes overworked . This can result in the following symptoms:

Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
Fatigue
Headaches

Some of the causes of hearing strain include:

Exposure to loud noises (concerts, for example)
Loud working environments
Other everyday environments with high noise levels

The impacts of hearing staring and hearing loss are far-reaching. While physical discomfort is definitely of concern, there is also a disturbing social and psychological element. When hearing becomes difficult, the affected person may withdraw from conversations and public settings, which can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression.

Reduced confidence in your ability to communicate and social isolation are not trivial outcomes by any means. It’s important that we effectively begin treatment for hearing strain when the symptoms of it start to arise.

The Technology Behind Modern Hearing Aids

We are no longer living in an age of bulky, unorthodox-looking, and uncomfortable hearing aids. Today’s modern hearing aids are compact, comfortable, high-tech, and hardly noticeable, at all.

Advancements in Hearing Aids

Small, often virtually invisible
Deliver clear, natural sound
Powerful processors
Rechargeable batteries
Health tracking

Features of Modern Hearing Aids

Some of the features of modern hearing aids which help them to relieve hearing strain include:

Noise reduction to mitigate background noise so you can focus on the sounds you want to hear.
Directional microphones to amplify sounds coming from the direction that you’re facing as opposed to the periphery.
Connectivity via technologies like bluetooth to help you connect to your phone, a smart TV, and/or other devices.

Collectively, these features combine to create an experience that is more natural and intuitive to what users would receive in the past. It’s no longer just sound amplification, but a seamless integration with your normal, day-to-day environments.

Real-Life Benefits of Using Hearing Aids

Using hearing aids for hearing strain relief has benefits that can reach into every part of your life. Understandably, it can be nerve-wracking and intimidating to start exploring the world of hearing aids and hearing health, in general. What we strive to do here at Audiology First is make the experience comfortable, easy to understand, and immediately impactful for our patients.

Testimonial

Take, for example, our patient, Audrey. We are so thankful for what we get to provide for patients like her and so many others. Look at what she had to say about her experience here:

—

“I was so afraid that I wouldn't be able to use hearing aid technology. Nobody explained things the way Joseph did - very patient and willing to let me learn how to hear again at my own pace. I wouldn't go anywhere else in town after my experience at Audiology First.” -Audrey P.

—

Being in the position to make this kind of difference in our patients' lives is the whole reason we’re here; to open up the world of hearing solutions, and help people regain control over their health and livelihood.

Quality of Life Improvements

Users of modern hearing aids often notice enhanced clarity in everyday sounds, making activities like watching TV, talking on the phone, or attending social gatherings more enjoyable and less tiring. This improved auditory experience translates to greater engagement in daily life and a more active lifestyle.

Long-Term Health Benefits

Beyond the immediate improvements, hearing aids also offer long-term health benefits. Consistent use of hearing aids, for example, can help prevent cognitive decline and the development of memory-related conditions (like dementia ) associated with untreated hearing loss.

Choosing the Right Hearing Aid

Choosing the right hearing aid should be done under the care of a professionally trained audiologist. Selecting the right one for your unique personal needs is important for maximizing its benefits in your everyday living. Here are some things to consider.

Consultation Importance

A thorough consultation needs to be performed by a trained and highly-skilled audiologist. Audiologists at Audiology First are educated in the understanding and practice of administering a comprehensive assessment that factors in your hearing needs and lifestyle requirements. This helps them to find the most suitable hearing aid that checks all the boxes for who you are and what you require.

Customization

There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to hearing aids. They can (and should) be customized to fit your unique auditory profile. Whether you need devices for active outdoor use or quiet indoor settings, customization ensures that you receive the best in both performance and comfort.

Maintenance Tips

We always educate our patients on the proper maintenance of their hearing aids. Here are some basic ones to keep in mind:

Clean them daily
Avoid exposure to moisture
Have them serviced periodically by your audiologist
Keep software up to date
Store in a cool, dry place when not in use

In order to reduce hearing strain and mitigate the effects of hearing loss, you need the right professionals to prescribe the right technology and care…

Audiology First is Southern Alberta’s most trusted hearing clinic and hearing aid provider. If you’re experiencing hearing strain of any kind, reach out to Audiology First for a personalized hearing assessment. We look forward to helping you explore the best options to improve your hearing health and quality of life.

Audiology First: The Link Between Hearing Loss & Dementia

Mon, 24 Jun 2024 19:00:21 GMT

It has been an honour for me to represent audiologists and hearing health here in Southern Alberta. On Thursday, May 9th, 2024, I had the opportunity to present to an enthusiastic crowd at an event organized by the Southern Alberta Council on Public Affairs. The topic was, “The Link Between Hearing Loss and Dementia”.

It took place at the Lethbridge Seniors Community Organization (LSCO), and was featured in The Lethbridge Herald. Around 100 people took the time to come and listen to me speak. If you or someone you love suffers from hearing loss, this information could be very valuable to you—here’s what we discussed.

Hearing Health in Southern Alberta

Hearing loss is a common problem among seniors, and it’s something that tends to worsen with age. Southern Alberta potentially has more noise-induced hearing loss cases than other areas throughout the province and across the country, mostly due to farming practices and other heavy, noise-polluted industries.

Through our research and daily practice here at Audiology First, we estimate that more than 28,000 people in the South Health Zone could benefit significantly from hearing aid use. However, only about 30% of those aged 70 and above have tried one.

If you are one of the many people in our area who has trouble hearing (approximately 40% of us will experience significant hearing loss in our later years), your brain is at additional risk of dementia and other memory-related problems. People with hearing loss are much more likely to have impaired memory function, and other symptoms indicative of cognitive decline.

As an audiologist, it is my responsibility to ensure people with hearing problems are taken care of and looked after. I can help reduce your risk of memory loss, cognitive decline, and dementia—here’s how.

Dementia & Hearing Loss

Dementia can be a consequence of untreated hearing loss. The research on this is clear; here’s a summary of the literature for reference:

9% of all existing dementia cases may be associated with hearing loss.
There is evidence for additional brain shrinkage in those with hearing loss compared to those without.
Researchers have found markers for Alzheimer’s disease in people with hearing loss before any diagnosis of Alzheimer's has been made.
Individuals with mild, moderate, and severe hearing loss had a two-fold , three-fold , and five-fold increased risk of developing dementia, respectively, compared to those with normal hearing of the same age.
Even mild hearing loss is associated with a 19% increased risk of developing dementia over a 10-year period compared to those of the same age without hearing loss.

Field-Wide Consensus

Experts in dementia agree that hearing loss is one of the risk factors for dementia .

Experts have also said that some of our individual risk of dementia is difficult to pin down and a large percentage (some 60%) of our risk of developing dementia is not modifiable though lifestyle changes or by trying to make improvements to our health.

On the other hand, some of our lifestyle choices may affect our risk level for developing cognitive decline and dementia. This could be related to educational opportunities we received, how much exercise we get, our cardiovascular health, diabetes, alcohol intake, depression, and even obesity. Hearing loss is one of those risks that we can choose to treat or not. Hearing loss is described as a modifiable risk factor for dementia in the scientific literature, because there are treatments for hearing loss.

The theories linking Hearing Loss & Dementia

Deprivation from sound

Some scientists think that good communication, and high quality social interactions provides high levels of activity and processing through several areas of the brain, maintaining the complexity of the pathways involved in thinking our way through a conversation. Deprivation from sound suggests there is a cause and effect relationship between hearing loss and dementia; less interpersonal interaction may lead to fewer memory-forming interactions, less emotional engagement, and less brain exercise. Research shows that most people with hearing loss experience some level of social withdrawal and isolation, both of which are well-known risk factors of dementia. The brain loses what it does not use, decreasing the levels white matter in the brain that was previously being used to process sounds. A degree of dormancy in one area of the brain may influence the function of other brain areas. Fundamental changes to the brain structure itself may not influence whether dementia occurs, but it is thought that lack of use is what increases the risk of cognitive decline and dementia in some people. Not all people with hearing loss are at risk of total deprivation from sound, but some of the research seems to suggest that greater levels of hearing loss lead to worse rates of dementia.

Reduced 'Cognitive Reserve'

Some researchers have noted that hearing loss

Common cause theory

Other researchers feel that hearing loss and dementia happen simultaneously, from the same common cause.

Hearing Aids & Their Potential to Help

In one large study published in the Lancet in 2023, hearing aid use was associated with a 48% reduction in cognitive decline over three years compared to no hearing aid use at all. The evidence is, at this point, almost undeniable. We need to take action, and be preventative in the early stages of hearing loss to avoid these residual and highly disruptive issues.

Evidence-Based Hearing Aid Fittings

If you have hearing aids and are not currently using them, the clinic that provided them may not have followed the most up-to-date and best hearing care practices. Satisfaction with hearing aids can be quite low, likely due to the fact that only about 30% of hearing aids dispensed are fitted with evidence-based methods.

At Audiology First in Lethbridge, we will retune patients' hearing aids that were fitted elsewhere to help them hear better. We’re confident that we can make your hearing aid experience as seamless and natural as possible.

Audiology First: Hearing Care in Lethbridge & Southern Alberta

As Lethbridge's only independent audiology clinic, we are committed to following best practices and providing a level of care recognized province-wide. We fit every hearing aid with the brain in mind, and apply our own evidenced-based research to continually push the field forward.

References

Loughrey DG, Kelly ME, Kelley GA, Brennan S, Lawlor BA. Association of age-related hearing loss with cognitive function, cognitive impairment, and dementia: a systematic review and meta-analysis [published online December 7, 2017]. JAMA Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. doi:10.1001/jamaoto.2017.2513 https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaotolaryngology/fullarticle/2665726

Dementia prevention, intervention, and care: 2020 report of the Lancet Commission

Gill Livingston, Jonathan Huntley, Andrew Sommerlad, David Ames, Clive Ballard, Sube Banerjee, Carol Brayne, Alistair Burns,Jiska Cohen-Mansfield,Claudia Cooper,Sergi G Costafreda,Amit Dias,Nick Fox,Laura N Gitlin,Robert Howard,Helen C Kales,Mika Kivimäki et al. The Lancet 8–14 August 2020 vol. 396 issue 10248 Licensed Content Pages 34 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7392084/

Marcos-Alonso, S., Almeida-Ayerve, C. N., Monopoli-Roca, C., Coronel-Touma, G. S., Pacheco-López, S., Peña-Navarro, P., Serradilla-López, J. M., Sánchez-Gómez, H., Pardal-Refoyo, J. L., & Batuecas-Caletrío, Á. (2023). Factors Impacting the Use or Rejection of Hearing Aids-A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Journal of clinical medicine, 12(12), 4030. https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm12124030

Saunders GH, Lewis MS, Forsline A. Expectations, prefitting counseling, and hearing aid outcome. J Am Acad Audiol. 2009 May;20(5):320-34. doi: 10.3766/jaaa.20.5.6. PMID: 19585963. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19585963/

Hearing intervention versus health education control to reduce cognitive decline in older adults with hearing loss in the USA (ACHIEVE): a multicentre, randomised controlled trial. Lin FR, Pike JR, Albert MS, Arnold M, Burgard S, Chisolm T, Couper D, Deal JA, Goman AM, Glynn NW, Gmelin T, Gravens-Mueller L, Hayden KM, Huang AR, Knopman D, Mitchell CM, Mosley T, Pankow JS, Reed NS, Sanchez V, Schrack JA, Windham BG, Coresh J; ACHIEVE Collaborative Research Group. Lancet. 2023 Jul 17:S0140-6736(23)01406-X. doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(23)01406-X. Online ahead of print. PMID: 37478886 https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(23)01406-X/abstract

Wang HF, Zhang W, Rolls ET; Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative; Li Y, Wang L, Ma YH, Kang J, Feng J, Yu JT, Cheng W. Hearing impairment is associated with cognitive decline, brain atrophy and tau pathology. EBioMedicine. 2022 Dec;86:104336. doi: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2022.104336. Epub 2022 Nov 7. PMID: 36356475; PMCID: PMC9649369. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36356475/

https://publichealth.jhu.edu/2023/new-study-links-hearing-loss-with-dementia-in-older-adults

Separating the Hype from Reality – What Truly Matters in Hearing Solutions

Fri, 24 May 2024 14:55:41 GMT

Hearing aid technology has advanced far beyond what it was in the past. The days of ear trumpets and vacuum tube transistors are all but gone (and thank goodness for that). We are in a new age of auditory care, but it’s not without its own set of problems and misconceptions.

Hearing is integral to our lives, so it’s important we get the facts straight, and find the best ways for the market to serve our individual needs. Let’s dig into what truly matters when it comes to hearing aid technology, and separate the wheat from the chaff to ensure you get the best possible value.

Understanding Hearing Loss

Hearing loss is not a one-size-fits-all diagnosis; it’s a condition that can vary widely and for a multitude of different reasons. Personalized, comprehensive hearing assessments conducted by qualified audiologists help determine the following:

The degree to which one’s hearing is compromised
The cause(s)
What solutions might best serve the patient and their specific needs

Selecting the right kind of hearing aid technology rests on the quality of this professional evaluation. As the old saying goes, “If you’re not assessing, you’re guessing.”

Key Features of Modern Hearing Aids

Hearing aid technology has pushed auditory care out of the dark ages and into the light. What was once a market permeated with uncertainty and archaic mechanical trinkets—while at the same time being deemed unnecessary and/or plagued with stigma by many—has transformed itself into a field of accepted holistic care and integration with one’s natural environment.

Some of the key features that have made modern-day hearing aids more practical, accessible, and effective include:

Wireless Connectivity: Allows for integration with smartphones and other devices for audio streaming directly through a person’s hearing aids, making the device more versatile and adaptable to different needs.
Rechargeable Batteries: Frequent battery replacements used to be commonplace with hearing aids; this has been mitigated to a large degree through the advent of rechargeable batteries.
Customizable Settings: The experience with hearing aids is no longer generalized, but can be tailored based on each patient’s degree of hearing loss and everyday listening environments.

Other advanced features like directional microphones (which can help focus on sounds coming from a specific direction), telecoils (which improve hearing in public places), and digital noise reduction (which minimizes background noise) have all been beneficial in the advancement of hearing aid technology.

Debunking Common Myths

You want to set realistic expectations when beginning to explore what hearing aids can do for your quality of life. There are several misconceptions out there that can lead to wishful thinking and eventual disappointment; let’s be upfront about two of the most common myths around hearing aid technology:

1. “Hearing aids restore hearing to normal.”

While hearing aids can significantly improve a person’s hearing, they do not restore it to normal. The hearing aid technology is designed to amplify sound and enhance clarity for the person using them, but they don’t replace the natural ability (and astounding wonder) that is the human ear.

2. “More expensive always means better.”

The best hearing aid for someone is not necessarily the most expensive. In fact, an experienced audiologist can often help patients save money by directing them towards a more cost-effective option that better suits their needs. New models from different manufacturers are always hitting the market to make it more competitive and personalized.

Choosing the Right Hearing Aid

Selecting the right hearing aid is dependent on a number of factors that need to be considered. These include a person’s lifestyle, the severity of hearing loss, budget, appearance of the hearing aid, fit, and overall personal preference. An experienced audiologist will help a person consider these things in concert with the options that are presently available.

A professional fitting, trial period, and ongoing support are essential parts of anyone offering hearing aid technology to patients. The audiologist should help fine-tune the hearing aid settings, provide maintenance tips, and offer advice on how to adapt to the device going forward.

The ultimate goal with hearing aid technology is the improvement of a person’s quality of life—anything less just isn’t worth the investment.

The Future of Hearing Aid Technology

Hearing aid technology is showing no signs of slowing down. Especially with the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into more and more parts of daily life, the capabilities of hearing aids is expected to further diversify, becoming more sophisticated and further attuned to the needs of their wearers.

For example, new technology, such as what is seen in the Oticon Intent™ hearing aids, uses the brain’s natural processing patterns to help people hear better in ways that are more intuitive. They use a combination of input from your movements, the surrounding conversation and environmental ambiance to determine what you need to hear and want to listen to.

Anything that makes hearing aid technology more cost-effective, efficient, and user-friendly is to the benefit of those who need them most. It’s a field that will continue to evolve and rapidly change.

Conclusion

Choosing to invest in hearing aid technology can be a life-changing decision. It’s important to understand the features currently available in modern hearing aids and how they might complement your current and/or desired lifestyle. Working with a professional audiologist like the ones at Audiology First can help you do so. Book your appointment with us today: 403-394-9903

The True Cost of Ignoring Hearing Health

Thu, 18 Apr 2024 20:26:28 GMT

A keen sense of hearing is one of the most important ways in which we interact with the world. As we age (and for many other reasons), our hearing health tends to get ignored if we can just get by and hear good enough . The truth is that hearing decline can have a significant impact on our lives and the lives of those around us; even society as a whole.

Communication breakdowns, declines in workplace productivity, increases in mental health problems, and rising healthcare costs are all associated with one’s hearing health. Let’s explore the impacts of delayed auditory care, and how you can be proactive in protecting your hearing ability long-term

The Personal Cost

The loss of any one sense can be devastating to our personal lives; physically, mentally, and socially. Being able to hear what’s going on is what integrates you into the surrounding environment. When the ability to do this starts to decline, we face a cascade of struggles that bring to light just how important hearing really is.

Physical Health

Research out of John Hopkins University has shown inextricable links between hearing loss and dementia. They found that moderate to severe hearing loss was associated with a higher prevalence of dementia compared to those with normal hearing. Resultantly, it was concluded that hearing may be the single biggest modifiable factor when it comes to dementia prevention.

Mental Well-Being

Hearing loss has also been found to be associated with greater psychological distress and utilization of mental health services. Depression, anxiety, and social isolation can all be byproducts of not being able to hear, and, therefore, listen and communicate effectively with those around you. This can lead to withdrawal, and general hesitancy around social situations.

The Social Cost

We are all threads in a social fabric. Our ability to cooperate, resonate, and correspond with one another is what makes the wheel go round on every level of social interaction. From the conversations you have with loved ones to the work you have to do professionally, hearing health is an important part of everything that we do.

Relationships & Communication

The strain placed on yourself and others when it comes to not being able to hear properly can be an eroding factor in many relationships. Frustration, impatience, and misinterpretation are all sidekicks to hearing health that is on the decline. When ties with people you care about start to deteriorate, you’re more at risk to some of the mental health issues aforementioned above.

Workplace Productivity

Even if you feel like your hearing is okay, what others feel may be purposely veiled for the sake of nicety and not wanting to offend you, especially in a professional setting. Productivity tends to decline and the risk of not performing well in general is heightened when hearing is impaired. Resources have to be triaged more disparagingly when details get misheard or missed altogether.

The Economic Cost

Optimal hearing health is something our society just cannot afford to live without. The economic implications are critical to our healthcare system and the economy as a whole. When we all get together and talk about improving the economy, seldom do we place an onus on the metrics that each one of us can look after and change for the better. One of those is hearing health.

Healthcare Expenses

Almost 1 in 4 Canadians experience some level of hearing loss, and the likelihood of you being one of them grows with age. When hearing starts to decline, the dominos begin to fall in terms of health-related issues. We already deal with an overwhelmed healthcare system for so many reasons, but hearing health is something we can be proactive about to help mitigate the burden.

Societal Impact

If we have a quarter of the population experiencing some of the struggles we’ve detailed so far, how do you think that affects the society as a whole? The importance of hearing health is not something we often talk about—and that needs to change. For us to form a country that is both productive and prosperous, we need a population that can both listen to and hear one another.

The Importance of Early Detection & Intervention

It is often such a gradual decline that many of us fail to notice when our hearing health is not what it should be. The importance of regular hearing tests and discussions with your audiologist are key to early detection of issues and intervention. Audiology First is Lethbridge’s leader in hearing assessments, technology, and hearing care. Take a look at what our clinic can do for you.

Benefits of Early Care

Regular appointments at Audiology First can help improve your hearing and reduce healthcare costs down the road. Our team of experts is dedicated to providing you with accessible care that makes a difference from your very first appointment. Enjoy better relationships, work performance, and quality of life by staying on top of your hearing health.

Technology & Solutions

As a Southern Alberta leader in audiology care, we provide our patients with the most up to date technology and effective solutions for their hearing health. Advancements in the field, such as rechargeable hearing aids that have wind-detection, smartphone integration, and tinnitus masking are just some of the incredible treatment options that we can offer to our patients.

How Audiology First Can Help

Audiology First has a goal—to make a positive difference in your hearing health. We start with a comprehensive hearing test that helps us provide a unique and tailored treatment plan designed just for you. There’s no cookie-cutter approach. We’ll find treatment options based on your needs, and provide ongoing support as your hearing changes over time.

Some of the services we provide include

Hearing test
Hearing aids
Earwax removal
Hearing aid care
Ostocan (3D imaging technology)

Ignoring your hearing health comes at an incalculable cost. The effects it has on interpersonal relationships, mental well-being, work performance, and healthcare costs can be mitigated to a large degree by being proactive. Explore your hearing health solutions by contacting the expert team at Audiology First. Book your appointment with us today: 403-394-9903

Customized Hearing Tests for Individual Challenges

Sat, 30 Mar 2024 16:00:00 GMT

Hearing loss is not a one-size-fits-all condition; each person's experience with hearing impairment is as unique as a fingerprint. Recognizing this, we delve into the critical importance of customized hearing tests and how they directly impact the effectiveness of hearing loss solutions.

Understanding the Spectrum of Hearing Loss

Hearing loss manifests in various degrees and forms. From the mild, high-frequency losses that make understanding speech in noisy environments a challenge to the profound losses where even the loudest sounds go unheard, customized hearing tests are designed to map the profile of everyone’s hearing ability.

The Custom Hearing Test Process

A customized hearing test begins with a comprehensive evaluation of your hearing health . Audiologists use a battery of tests to measure different aspects of hearing in adult patients, including:

Pure-tone testing
Speech testing
Middle ear testing
Otoacoustic emissions (OAEs)
Speech understanding in noise.

As experts, we may also use several other tests to measure the health and function of the hearing system from several different perspectives – a process of cross-checking results. Audiologists use their training and expertise to adapt standard tests to help define and confirm a certain disorder.

You may find that our testing may take longer than you may be used to at other clinics, but you will receive better explanations of results that offer further insight and understanding, leading you to make clearer decisions on your care.

Why One Size Doesn't Fit All

Each test contributes to a detailed understanding of your hearing health. Most hearing tests show routine or common hearing loss. Still, some results may mean that another specialist or physician, such as an Ear-Nose-Throat specialist or speech-language pathologist, should be consulted.

From Test Results to Custom Solutions

Once your hearing profile has been established, the audiologist can recommend hearing aids, assistive listening devices, or strategies for managing your hearing issues in daily life. The goal is to ensure that the solution fits your hearing needs in terms of how loud the hearing aids need to be and the lifestyle you prefer to lead.

Technological Advancements in Hearing Tests

Technology has significantly advanced the precision of hearing tests, allowing for more accurate

assessments and better-fitting hearing aids. Adapting to hearing aids is made smoother as the devices are tailored to address the specific frequencies and types of sounds you struggle with.

Hearing test results undergo a translation process into a hearing aid prescription. Still, without key measurements being taken and understood by the clinician, even the most sophisticated hearing aid technology may provide less than adequate results. Unfortunately, this pattern of results is far too common in patients who have purchased hearing aids from dispensers or clinics that do not take an evidence-based approach. According to research, around one-third of hearing aids are not fitted to evidence-based standards – while at Audiology First, we make it our top priority in every case possible.

The Future of Hearing Care

Audiology First uses the most precise testing and fitting equipment possible. Automated test techniques are also offered at our clinic and are appropriate for use with certain patients.

With ongoing research and development, the future of hearing care is bright, promising even more personalized and effective treatments for those with hearing loss. Innovations in digital technology and machine learning are already here. The hearing aids we provide adapt in real time to the user's environment, providing an even more customized listening experience. Some hearing aids are even getting better at understanding what we, as human listeners, desire to hear from a social environment and are programmed to reduce sounds that do not matter as much.

Embracing Individualized Care

The power of customized hearing tests cannot be overstated. By embracing the individual nature of hearing loss, we can offer solutions that allow people to live fully without being defined by their hearing challenges. The journey towards better hearing begins with the understanding that everyone's experience is unique. From the initial assessment to the selection of hearing aids, every step should be tailored to meet the specific needs of the individual.

The Importance of Continuous Care

To ensure that effective hearing solutions do not end with the fitting of hearing aids or other assistive devices, we made a commitment long ago to offer continuous care and follow-up appointments. We use this time to adjust and refine the hearing aids as the user's needs evolve. Regular check-ups allow audiologists to reassess hearing health, make necessary device adjustments, and provide ongoing support to the users.

The Role of the Individual in Hearing Care

While audiologists and hearing care professionals play a crucial role in diagnosing and treating hearing loss, the individual's active participation is equally important. Being open about your experiences, challenges, and preferences helps create a more effective hearing care plan. We want to hear about any challenges you are having. Additionally, embracing hearing aids and committing to regular maintenance and care can significantly enhance the hearing experience.

Community Support and Resources

Navigating hearing loss can be challenging, but it's important to remember that you're not alone. Many resources and support groups are available to help individuals and their families understand hearing loss better and connect with others who are going through similar experiences. Sharing stories and tips can provide valuable insights and encouragement.

Customized hearing tests are more than just a procedure; they are a crucial step towards a life where hearing loss does not limit one's potential. By focusing on the individual's specific needs and leveraging the latest advancements in technology, we can create hearing solutions that not only improve hearing but also enhance the quality of life. Let's continue to embrace and advocate for individualized care in hearing health, ensuring that each person's journey towards better hearing is as unique and fulfilling as they are.

Building Confidence Through Better Hearing: The Role of Audiologists in Restoring Self-Assurance

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 18:33:24 GMT

In today's world, where communication is paramount, hearing loss can significantly impact an individual's confidence and ability to engage effectively in social and professional environments. Audiologists play a vital role in this context, not just as healthcare professionals but as catalysts for positive change in people's lives. At Audiology First, we understand the profound impact that improved hearing can have on one's self-esteem and overall quality of life.

Understanding Hearing Loss and Its Impact

Hearing loss is a prevalent issue that affects millions worldwide. Its onset can be so gradual that many might not notice their hearing abilities waning. This can lead to difficulties in communication, resulting in frustration, social isolation, and a decline in self-assurance. Recognizing the signs of hearing loss and seeking professional help is the first step towards regaining control over your life and restoring your confidence.

The Role of Audiologists

Audiologists are at the forefront of diagnosing and managing hearing loss. Their expertise goes beyond just prescribing hearing aids; they provide a comprehensive care approach that includes assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing support. Audiologists are equipped with the tools and knowledge to tailor solutions specifically designed to meet individual needs, ensuring that each person can achieve the best possible outcome for their hearing health.

The Process of Restoring Confidence

Personalized Hearing Assessments

Every journey to better hearing begins with a detailed evaluation . This process helps identify the specific nature and extent of hearing loss, serving as the foundation for all subsequent treatment and management strategies.

Hearing Aid Fittings and Adjustments

With a variety of hearing aids available, audiologists play a crucial role in selecting and fitting the most appropriate device for each individual. Modern hearing aids are discreet, technologically advanced, and can be customized to suit various lifestyles and preferences.

Rehabilitation and Education

Adapting to life with hearing aids involves more than just wearing them. Audiologists provide essential training on how to use and care for these devices, as well as strategies to improve communication in different settings.

Ongoing Support and Care

The journey doesn't end with the fitting of hearing aids. Regular follow-ups with an audiologist ensure that hearing aids continue to meet the user's needs, adjusting to any changes in their hearing condition over time.

Building Confidence Beyond Hearing

The benefits of improved hearing extend far beyond the auditory. Being able to communicate more effectively and engage with others without fear of misunderstanding leads to a significant boost in self-esteem. It empowers individuals to participate more fully in their personal and professional lives, fostering a sense of belonging and competence.

At Audiology First, we're not just focused on improving your hearing; we're committed to enhancing your confidence and overall quality of life through personalized care and support. If you're experiencing hearing challenges, take the first step towards a more confident and fulfilling life by visiting us . Let us show you how better hearing can transform your world.

Independent and Locally Owned: The Advantages of Choosing Audiology First for Your Hearing Care Needs

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 20:57:37 GMT

Hearing health is crucial to maintaining overall well-being and an active lifestyle, and finding the right clinic for your needs can make all the difference. Audiology First is your local choice for expert hearing care, offering invaluable advantages as an independent and locally-owned practice. In this blog post, we explore the many reasons why choosing Audiology First for your hearing care needs is the right decision. So let's dive in and discover the world of clear, vibrant hearing!

The Personal Touch: Individualized Care

Audiology First is dedicated to providing personalized care, with an emphasis on individual needs. As an independent and local hearing clinic, we can:

Offer one-on-one consultations with our experienced audiologists
Tailor care plans to suit your lifestyle and preferences
Spend the time necessary to fully understand your concerns and address them

Access to The Best Hearing Aid Brands and Technology

Being an independent clinic comes with the advantage of offering a variety of hearing aid brands and advanced technologies . That means you can:

Select from a wide range of hearing aid styles and features
Be confident in your choice, knowing you're receiving the best available technology
Stay connected to your environment by utilizing smartphone-compatible hearing aids and accessories

Continued Support and Maintenance for Your Hearing Aids

Our relationship doesn't end when you walk out of our clinic with your new hearing aids. At Audiology First, we provide:

Comprehensive maintenance, including free walk-in cleanings and regular checkups by appointment, ensuring the long-term effectiveness of your hearing aids.
Expert fine-tuning services to consistently deliver optimal device performance.
Access to educational resources for staying informed about the latest advancements in hearing health and technology.
Lifetime support for your hearing aids, encompassing both scheduled and on-demand checkups for sustained quality assurance.

A Community-Oriented Approach

Being locally owned enables us to understand and connect with the unique needs of our community. By choosing Audiology First, you will benefit from:

A dedicated team of professionals who are passionate about improving the lives of our neighbors.
Support for local businesses, fostering economic growth within our community.
The feeling of belonging in a warm and welcoming environment, where your hearing health is our priority.

Real-Life Testimonials: Hear from Our Happy Patients

Still not convinced? Allow us to share a couple of real-life stories from our satisfied patients:

Audrey. "Glenn and his team have gone above and beyond while helping me with my hearing and tinnitus. My tinnitus sounded like constant pouring water or a rushing noise, which bothered me most of the time. While wearing the aids tinnitus is virtually non-existent! It has been a phenomenal change to my quality of life. I find that I am less tired, and more relaxed, and don't have to find other ways to combat the noise. The hearing aids have been wonderful."

Jared . "All staff were extremely friendly and helpful. My Audiologist was very knowledgeable and made everything very simple. I can not recommend this clinic enough!"

Book Your Appointment Today to Experience the Audiology First Advantage

Don't let your hearing concerns go untreated. Schedule your appointment with our expert audiologists and begin your journey toward clear, vibrant hearing. We look forward to providing you with the personalized, locally-focused care you deserve. Book your appointment now at Audiology First – Your Local Choice for Expert Hearing Care.

Audiology talk: What are Real Ear Measurements in Hearing Aid Fittings?

Thu, 02 Mar 2023 22:01:52 GMT

5 Reasons Why You Should Never Use Q-Tips For Earwax Removal and Cleaning

Fri, 27 Jan 2023 17:38:18 GMT

The Connection Between Hearing Loss and Mental Health

glennh@audiologyfirst.ca (Glenn Hole) — Fri, 04 Feb 2022 19:12:03 GMT

Considering our hearing system involves both the brain and ears, it makes sense that hearing loss is connected with mental health.

The link between the two is complex. Hearing loss can contribute to mental health issues (including fatigue, anxiety and depression), but it isn’t the only and definite cause of these issues.

Unlike many factors that contribute to mental health, hearing loss is a tangible challenge that can often be managed through technology and therapy. It is one aspect that you can control to improve your mental well-being.

Mental health effects of hearing loss

For many people, the effects of hearing loss are noticeable. They may struggle to understand what other people are saying in a group conversation. Or they always have to turn up the volume of the television.

For others, the effects of hearing loss may not be perceivable. A gradual onset of hearing loss can make it challenging to notice the changes. It is not uncommon for family members or friends to notice hearing loss in a loved one before they acknowledge it.

The mental health effects of hearing loss are often invisible.

Cognitive decline

While not yet fully understood, some researchers are seeing a link between hearing loss and mild forms of cognitive decline. There are a few theories as to why cognitive decline may be associated with hearing loss. Hearing loss often interferes with interpersonal communication, either directly or by causing people to avoid social interactions that would stimulate the brain further.

Other researchers have investigated how hearing loss causes the brain to work harder to comprehend sound signals that are weaker or incomplete. Research is still ongoing in this area.

Anxiety and depression

Hearing loss can contribute to anxiety and depression due to how it impacts our day-to-day lives and relationships.

Those with hearing loss may miss out on conversations with loved ones or prefer to avoid social events. They may have trouble working, be unable to perform sports that require instruction and even have trouble watching movies with friends and family. Some who experience hearing loss feel a sense of shame and avoid situations that are uncomfortable.

Hearing loss is often just one compounding factor of many when it comes to anxiety and depression. Even if hearing loss is unperceivable, it can contribute to unnecessary stress.

Isolation and loneliness

Isolation and loneliness are common effects of hearing loss. For many people, it is easier to stay at home and avoid situations where hearing is challenging.

Fatigue

Fatigue is associated with hearing loss because the brain has to work harder to hear and comprehend speech. This can lead to physical and cognitive exhaustion.

How hearing aids contribute to mental well-being

The connection between hearing loss and mental health is explained by the relationship between the brain and ears . When hearing loss is present, the brain receives incomplete or weaker sound signals from the ears. The brain has to work harder to comprehend these signals and fill in any gaps.

This additional cognitive effort and strain can contribute to exhaustion and fatigue. Recurring exhaustion can compound with the effects of hearing loss to contribute to social isolation, anxiety and depression.

Fortunately, brains are incredibly adaptable. Hearing aids can improve the quality and clarity of sound signals, so the brain doesn’t need to work as hard to process the sound signals. Hearing aids can minimize the cognitive load, which can reduce or remove some factors that lead to exhaustion, fatigue, social isolation, anxiety and depression.

Treating hearing loss as early as possible can help to improve mental well-being. Just as the brain adapts to hearing loss, it also has to adapt to hearing aids. The earlier you start wearing hearing aids, the sooner your brain can learn to leverage the improved quality of sound signals.

Hearing health is in your control

Many factors that are associated with mental health are out of your control, but you can

manage your hearing loss.

Book a hearing test with us today to understand the state of your hearing system. If you notice a loved one or friend with hearing challenges, encourage them to get a hearing test. They may not even notice their hearing loss and the effects it has on their daily life, so the results of a hearing test can provide clarity and comfort.

Tips for Adapting to New Hearing Aids

glennh@audiologyfirst.ca (Glenn Hole) — Thu, 27 Jan 2022 16:16:48 GMT

Here is what to expect when you start wearing new hearing aids

When you start wearing new hearing aids, your brain receives new or different sound signals than it is used to. Over time, your brain will adapt to optimize the signals it is receiving, but that process may not be immediate.

It is expected that you will need days to months to get used to new hearing aids. We understand this process may be unwelcome or frustrating, but there is also some good news: your brain’s ability to adapt to new sounds means it can continue adapting and learning – even after you are comfortable with your hearing aids.

To help you get the most out of the process of adapting to new hearing aids, we have collected the tips that we share during appointments at Audiology First. Our goal is to help you adapt as quickly as possible so you can get the most benefits out of your new hearing aids.

Adapting to New Sounds

When you walk into a bakery, the smell of freshly baked bread and pastries is hard to ignore. But the smell quickly fades and soon will be unnoticed.

Our brains have the incredible ability to process and prioritize senses to let us know what has changed in our environment. New sensory inputs can be alarming and overpowering, but over time we get used to them and adapt to the conditions.

The sense of hearing is the same.

The role of our brains

Our brains do an incredible job at analyzing the sounds it receives – even if hearing loss inhibits this process. The role of the brain in hearing is to translate the sensory signals into comprehensible sounds and speech, all while filtering unwanted sounds and focusing on the people or things you want to hear.

Progressive hearing loss is often difficult to perceive because the brain adapts over time to do the best it can with missing or incomplete sound signals.

How the brain adapts

When you get new hearing aids, your brain is immediately introduced to signals it is no longer used to. Without the right approach, new hearing aid users can find the change overwhelming. Patients often report:

- Being more aware of ambient noise

- Difficulty focusing on specific sounds, such as speech

- Finding some sounds too loud at first

- Exhaustion or tiredness while using the hearing aids for a few hours

This is because the brain of a new hearing aid user is used to processing less complex sound - with some areas of the hearing system of the brain becoming more and more dormant over time.

When a hearing aid reactivates the ear, those dormant areas begin to fire once more. Researchers have observed with MRI as the auditory parts of the brain increase in density and complexity after being fitted with a hearing aid. While at first a hearing aid can sound strange, tinny or new, the brain rewires itself to become able to process sounds more efficiently and meaningfully.

Adaptation is not without limits, but with time we can help you reach your potential.

How to Adapt to Hearing Aids

When you get hearing aids from Audiology First, our team will be astute and flexible to your progress over the first few weeks. Our post-fitting plan includes multiple formal, and informal follow-up appointments to help you adapt at a pace that works for you.

Here are the top recommendations to help you adapt to new hearing aids.

Expect the process to take time
Get your hearing aids professionally fitted
Share your concerns and issues
Wear the hearing aids as much as possible
Slowly introduce new sound situations

1. Expect the process to take time

Your brain needs time to get used to the different sound signals it is receiving. For some people, they quickly get used to new hearing aids. For others, it can take months.

We understand the process can be frustrating, especially if it takes longer than you expect. Our goal is to provide as much information and support that you need to streamline the process and avoid any major hurdles.

You should not expect pain or unreasonable discomfort. If you are struggling to wear your hearing aids, book an appointment with a clinician at Audiology First. We are able to quickly identify the issue, and provide a different solution or sound quality if needed.

2. Get your hearing aids professionally fitted

Hearing aid fitting is the process to ensure your devices fit your ears – in terms of physical fit and your hearing loss. We will use the results from your hearing test to program the devices according to the sounds you can hear well and the ones you struggle with. Then we will verify the programming produces the sounds that will provide the most help.

Without professional hearing aid fitting, your devices may not be optimized for your ears and hearing loss. At Audiology First, we recognise the importance of individual sound tolerance, the range in which a hearing aid should operate, and what we might predict as a benefit level to expect from it.

It takes years of experience to recognise the individual needs of a patient with hearing loss, and maybe just as importantly, when to stop attempting to fix elements of the hearing that cannot be managed or treated further.

3. Share your concerns and issues

Most issues that you may experience with your new hearing aids can be resolved – but your audiologist needs to know there is a concern. You can start a daily journal to track the successes and challenges of your hearing aids, or you can write notes whenever you experience something that was not expected.

Your audiologist will make adjustments to your hearing aids or recommend strategies to mitigate the challenges you are experiencing.

4. Wear the hearing aids as much as possible

To adapt to new hearing aids, your brain needs to experience the different sound signals.

Try wearing your new hearing aids as much as possible. If you have discomfort or exhaustion after a long period of the devices in your ears, then take a break and note how you are feeling. And always let us know if you experience discomfort either from loud sounds, or the fit of the hearing aids.

5. Slowly introduce new sound situations

To help you get started with your hearing aids, our clinicians will often provide a training mode for the first few weeks - where the hearing aids are a set a little quieter than you may actually need, to help you gradually get used to them.

If you are struggling to get used to your hearing aids, you can also help your brain get used to new sounds by starting off in simple situations and environments, such as watching the television or talking to someone one-on-one. Reading a book aloud can help you get used to the way a hearing aid changes the sound of your own voice. Over time, you can introduce more complex situations and work up to wearing your hearing aids in daily life.

Benefits of Proper Hearing Aid Fitting

glennh@audiologyfirst.ca (Glenn Hole) — Mon, 06 Dec 2021 21:56:01 GMT

Professional hearing aid fitting ensures the devices match the wearers and their hearing challenges

Proper hearing aid fittings are essential to the success of new devices. Through precise adjustments and verification, we ensure the hearing aids match your ears and – more importantly – the hearing challenges you experience.

At Audiology First, we strive to go beyond the norm in everything we do. Our hearing tests go deeper to collect as much information as we can about the state of your hearing. And our hearing aid fittings use advanced measurements and evidence based methods to confirm the devices are working as expected.

Why Hearing Aid Fitting is Essential

Hearing aid fitting is the process of matching the devices to the wearer. This includes both the physical fit and the programming of the hearing aids. The closer the devices match the individual hearing needs of the wearer, the better the hearing aids will perform.

Ensure hearing aids are properly programmed

When your hearing aids arrive at our Lethbridge hearing clinic, they are unprogrammed and set to factory defaults. We take the time to rigorously test each pair of hearing aids for quality control before programming even takes place. We will then pre-program the hearing aids from your hearing test.

Optimize any advanced features

Hearing aids have advanced features to seamlessly adapt to different scenarios and environments. Many of these features are automated and leverage the innovative processing power of modern hearing aids, but your audiologist can adjust various thresholds and settings to match the features to the situations where you appreciate better support with your hearing.

What to Expect From a Hearing Aid Fitting Appointment

The goal of your hearing aid fitting appointment is to match new hearing aids with your hearing loss prescription. We use the results from your hearing test and then perform various verification assessments to confirm the settings match the desired output.

When you arrive for your appointment, your hearing aids will be programmed according to your hearing profile. Your clinician will check the hearing aids for their physical fit and comfort, and then we will ask you to wear your devices as we complete various tests and adjustments.

Throughout your appointment, we will explain what we are adjusting and what it means for your daily life with hearing aids. Of course, we are available to answer any of your questions about wearing and maintaining your hearing aids.

Test your hearing aids while you wear them

During your hearing aid fitting appointment, we will complete a series of tests called "real-ear measurements." These tests will evaluate their performance while you are wearing them.

Everyone's ears are unique. Differences in ear canal size and shape impact how people hear sounds, so real ear measurements provide accurate data from a realistic setting.

To perform the measurements, a miniature microphone will be placed in your ear between the hearing aid and eardrum. We can use the microphone to measure the output of the hearing aids when they are in your ear.

Some of the benefits of real-ear measurements include:

Better match between your hearing prescription and hearing aids
Improved comfort
Immediate adjustments based on real sound.
Improved hearing aid performance

Real ear measurements are an extra step that doesn't happen at every hearing centre. It's often assumed that the initial programming is correct if it matches the results from a hearing test. But in reality, the output may not be accurate when it is operating within an ear, and it may not be comfortable for the wearer.

Make Sure Your Hearing Aids Are Properly Fitted

All new hearing aids at Audiology First are professionally fitted using advanced testing and careful attention from your audiologist. It is one of the top success factors in hearing aids, so it is well worth the additional step.

If you have hearing aids but have never heard of real-ear measurements, book an appointment with us today . We can review the programming of your devices through advanced testing like real ear measurements.

If you don't have hearing aids, see what to expect from a hearing test . At Audiology First, we always go a step further to improve the success of your hearing aids.

How the Brain Hears

glennh@audiologyfirst.ca (Glenn Hole) — Wed, 06 Oct 2021 21:47:34 GMT

The brain's role in hearing can help explain the invisible effects of hearing loss

All sounds are just vibrations. While the ear helps capture airborne vibrations, the brain helps us make sense of them. Together the brain and the ear turn vibrations into what we recognize as sounds. Speech, music and other sounds become meaningful.

By understanding how the brain contributes to hearing, we can better explain the causes and some of the overlooked and often invisible effects of hearing loss.

The ears' role in hearing

The ears are responsible for collecting sound waves and transforming them into signals that your brain can process.

Your outer ear (the part that you can see) is responsible for collecting sounds. When sound waves enter your ear canal, they are turned into mechanical vibrations that travel through a combination of bones and fluid before reaching the inner part of the ear.

The inner ear transforms mechanical vibrations into electrical signals, which are then passed via the auditory nerve to the brain.

The brain's role in hearing

It may seem like a no-brainer to say that the brain plays a crucial role in how we hear. The brain regulates and comprehends all our senses based on the information it receives. In the case of hearing, the information is the sound signals it receives from the ears.

The brain has the incredible ability to make sense of sound signals. Over the years, it has been trained to recognize and focus on the sounds that are important to communication, safety and understanding of the world around it.

When it receives signals, the brain seamlessly:

Comprehends speech
Filters unwanted sounds
Focuses on desirable sounds
Interprets new or unfamiliar sounds

What happens when hearing loss is present

Most commonly, hearing loss happens because of changes to the tiny cells of the ear itself. Sometimes there are problems with the mechanical parts of the ear (such as the eardrum, or the tiny bones inside the ear) that inhibit sounds from reaching the cells of the inner ear.

In some rare cases, the problem lies with the bundle of nerves that carry the sound signal from the ear to the brain. Even more rarely, the parts of the brain that help us recognize sounds can be damaged.

There are cases where a combination of factors related to both the ears and the brain contribute to hearing challenges.

If hearing loss is present, the electrical signals that the brain receives may be incomplete or weak. But the brain can adapt and fill in the gaps based on its years of experience processing signals.

It's similar to reading a newspaper that is damaged. With context, you're likely to figure out what the stories are about and grasp the main points. But with more damage, comprehending the stories gets more difficult.

As far as your brain is concerned, it's the same concept. If it only has weak signals to work with, it has to work harder to fill in the gaps.

How hearing aids help the brain

The capability of your brain to understand sound depends on the quality of sound signals it receives. Hearing aids contribute to more balanced and complete sounds, so it is easier for your brain to process the signals.

There are many brain benefits of hearing aids. For example, hearing aids can:

Provide more consistent sounds in a wider range of environments, meaning the sound signals your brain receives are more consistent.
Boost the sounds you have difficulty hearing to provide stronger signals to the brain.
Remove some of the unwanted background sounds.
Help you hear from one direction at a time to eliminate unwanted interference from ambient sound.
Restore imbalances in hearing.
Restore some of the ability to tell where sounds came from and enhance our ability to focus.
Reduce the effort necessary to hear.

Why it's important to understand the brain's role

The ears are often the focus of healthy hearing. This is in large part because the brain's role in hearing is often invisible.

We don't want to diminish the importance of your ears – they are crucial to hearing. But brain research helps us understand the other factors that contribute to a healthy listening ability.

It helps to explain some of the effects of hearing loss. For many people, these are the effects that are less visible but just as impactful to their relationships, health and wellbeing.

Exhaustion

Even though the brain has the ability to fill-in-the-gaps when it receives weaker sound signals, this is not an easy task. It takes brainpower to process this information that the ears are sending, which can lead to mental exhaustion and frustration.

Just as it is more tiring and difficult to read a damaged newspaper, it is more tiring and difficult to process weaker sound signals.

Social isolation

Some people with hearing loss become overwhelmed, embarrassed, or exhausted in social situations, whether they are at home or in public. If it is tiring trying to follow conversations, it can be easier just to avoid seeing people in those challenging environments.

Anxiety and depression

Hearing loss can also contribute to anxiety and depression. When brainpower is exhausted by trying to process weak sound signals, it can contribute to mental stress and feelings of depression.

Dementia

Research into the link between hearing loss and dementia is ongoing, but studies show that people who have hearing loss may be at higher risk for dementia. This is thought to be the result of brain exhaustion or social isolation.

The brain needs time to adapt

Over time, the brain can adapt to changing sound signals. If sound signals weaken, the brain can attempt to fill in the gaps. If sound signals improve, the brain can adjust and improve your comprehension and interpretation of sounds while spending less mental energy in the process.

The brain's role in hearing is an opportunity: you can adapt to hearing aids, therapy and other solutions to improve your hearing health and well-being.

Finding the perfect match

glennh@audiologyfirst.ca (Glenn Hole) — Wed, 06 Oct 2021 21:47:33 GMT

There isn't a single style or type of hearing aid that is the best fit for everyone with hearing challenges.

For Keri Boudreau, the expertise and dedication of her audiologist at Audiology First was central to finding the technology that was the best match.

"I have sort of a different type of hearing loss – called conductive hearing loss," she explains. "I've had it since I was born."

Conductive hearing loss occurs when damage to the outer or middle ear prevents sound waves from travelling to the inner ear.

Treatment for conductive hearing loss varies depending on the characteristics of each case.

The most viable option for Keri was hearing aids. She was previously fitted with a surgically implanted hearing aid but was interested in trying a more conventional style.

Keri began researching audiology clinics in Lethbridge and came across a Facebook post from Audiology First. The review explained the features and benefits of the new technology and she decided to make an appointment.

A short time later she had an appointment with Dr. Femi Nyatepe-Coo.

"I had a bone-anchored hearing aid, and to my surprise Dr. Coo had actually worked with those before," says Keri. "He understood my struggles with it and why I wanted to move to something different."

After completing a comprehensive hearing evaluation, Dr. Coo went over all the available options for hearing aids, and what the costs and benefits were for each model.

"It felt more like a knowledge session," describes Keri. "I didn't feel pressured at all to choose a certain level of hearing aids. He explained every option and left it up to me to decide."

This was a welcome change to experiences Keri has had with other audiology clinics where few options for hearing aids were provided and little care was given to her needs.

"The previous clinics didn't seem like they wanted to help me hear better. There was no follow-up service and no real desire to improve my life," she says. "At Audiology First, they really care about me and they want me to have the best experience."

Keri selected her hearing aids and was given a 30-day trial to test them out.

Like any new devices, there was an adjustment period with the new hearing aids. She had previously worn a hearing aid in only one ear, and now she wore one in each ear. That partnered with the advancements made in hearing technology since her last device, she found the sounds to be overwhelming the first few days.

But Audiology First was there to help her at every step. They followed up with Keri to ensure the devices were working as expected and adjusted the earpieces to enhance the fit and comfort.

"They are completely life-changing. They improved my life significantly, and I can hear so much better."

It's not just the knowledge and expertise of the team at Audiology First that has led Keri to recommend the clinic to her family and friends – it's also the unparalleled service she experienced there from the start.

The only regret was waiting to get a hearing aid

glennh@audiologyfirst.ca (Glenn Hole) — Fri, 24 Sep 2021 17:42:43 GMT

When Justin VanDyk noticed a decline in hearing in one of his ears, he initially ignored it.

This is a common reaction to a newly perceived hearing loss. Most Canadian adults wait an average of seven years to seek help when they notice their hearing is diminishing.

“I was able to adapt and adjust,” says Justin, a chartered professional accountant with Capstone LLP . “It became a new normal for me.”

Justin’s hearing continued to worsen over time until it began to affect his daily life and his family – including his young kids – noticed the challenges. Hearing loss doesn’t just affect one person; it impacts the entire family.

“A lot of people – especially my family – were saying it was getting worse and I should get it looked at.”

Justin’s family doctor referred him to Audiology First for a comprehensive hearing test . Dr. Femi Nyatepe-Coo determined there was damage inside one ear but the cause of the damage was not known.

There was a chance the ear could be repaired surgically, but the procedure came with significant risks. The alternative was to be fitted for a hearing aid.

Justin decided he could manage with his diminished hearing and opted to leave things alone.

“I didn't want to wear a hearing aid,” he explains. “There's stigma tied to hearing aids, and I didn't want to be seen wearing a hearing aid.”

As an accountant with a young family, Justin didn’t match the profile of people that typically have hearing challenges.

“I was nervous because I figured most people they fit with hearing aids are older, but I was shocked at how many younger people Audiology First works with.”

In October 2020, Justin suddenly lost hearing in his good ear. His hearing was limited so he made an appointment to see Dr. Coo again. Fortunately, the issue with his good ear was temporary and was another opportunity to reassess the damaged ear.

After discussing the options for treatment with Dr. Coo, Justin decided to try a hearing aid.

“I didn’t feel pressured to choose a certain hearing aid model,” Justin says. “Dr. Coo went through all the options in different price ranges and listed the pros and cons of each model.”

Audiology First provides a risk-free trial period on new hearing aids to confirm the devices are as helpful as expected. Justin tried a different hearing aid before settling on the device that was the best match for him.

“It didn't take me long to adjust to the new hearing aid,” Justin describes. “In the beginning, it was loud and there was some discomfort. But within two weeks I couldn't even notice I was wearing it.”

The patience and care shown by Dr. Coo helped him overcome hesitation to wear a hearing aid.

“I have nothing but good things to say about Audiology First,” he says. “They are always tailoring their treatment and their care to help me achieve my goals.”

Justin’s daily life has improved since wearing the hearing aid. He no longer needs to strain to understand conversations in meetings and he can relax and enjoy the time he spends with his family.

“Now I just think: ‘You should've gotten a hearing aid five years ago.’”

How Hearing is Measured

glennh@audiologyfirst.ca (Glenn Hole) — Fri, 24 Sep 2021 17:38:15 GMT

Measuring hearing is not as straightforward as determining a percentage of hearing loss.

When we are asked to explain the state of someone’s hearing, it is inaccurate to provide a simple answer.

Describing hearing simply as “good” or “poor” doesn’t capture the complexities of hearing loss. The volume or intensity of sounds tends to vary at different pitches, and your individual hearing profile – how well you can hear certain sounds – results in an entirely unique experience.

When we measure hearing loss, our goal is to map out the profile of your hearing. No matter the hearing challenges you face, this information will help us recommend options that have the best potential for your hearing.

At Audiology First, we go beyond describing hearing as good or poor. Using more measurements and information, we can customize any treatment and technology according to the ways that you experience hearing.

Challenges with measuring hearing

Hearing loss tends to vary at different pitches. For example, some people may have trouble with high pitches while others struggle to hear low frequencies. There are patterns depending on the type or causes of hearing loss, but these trends are far from uniform.

This means that people experience the effects of hearing loss in different ways. Certain situations or environments that are more difficult for you may not be as challenging for someone else with the same extent of hearing loss.

It is essential to understand the specific pitches that are impacted. There is a range of pitches that contribute to hearing sounds related to speech, so a hearing loss in this range can make it difficult to comprehend others. Even a mild loss in this range can have notable effects on understanding speech.

It is more accurate to quantify hearing loss in terms of a “degree of loss.” These degrees range from normal hearing to mild, moderate, severe or profound, and an individual’s degree of hearing loss will often vary across different pitches and types of sounds.

Better ways to measure hearing loss

Always start with a hearing test

A comprehensive hearing test is vital to both a diagnosis of your hearing loss and a treatment plan.

During your hearing test, your audiologist will discuss your medical history and lifestyle, which helps us understand how you hear sounds in different situations.

We will then conduct a range of non-invasive hearing tests. This can include a physical examination of your ears, a review of your neurological functioning and measurement of your ability to understand speech.

Hearing loss can be challenging to understand, but a hearing test is a primary tool used to obtain data and gain insight into how you experience sounds and what is happening in your ears and brain.

Visualize your hearing in an audiogram

Using the information from a hearing evaluation, your audiologist will summarize the results in the form of an audiogram.

An audiogram is a graph that shows the quietest sounds you are able to hear at different frequencies, and it indicates the degree of loss across different types of sounds. The nearer the marks on your audiogram are to the top of the graph, the softer the sounds are that you can hear at that frequency.

Everyone’s audiogram is unique, and your individual graph can help you to understand the impacts of your hearing loss on your daily life. It will show which pitches are more difficult to hear and how each ear performs.

Speech intelligibility index

The speech intelligibility index is a measure ranging from 0 and 1 that represents the amount of speech that is both audible and comprehensible in a variety of listening conditions.

It can be generated from the data depicted on your audiogram, and it is highly correlated with speech understanding. As the speech intelligibility index increases, speech understanding generally increases.

Individuals experiencing hearing loss will often find it difficult to understand speech – particularly in noisy settings.

The speech intelligibility index enables audiologists to quantify the impact of hearing loss on the audibility of speech in both quiet and noisy environments. Noise masking, filtering and reverberation conditions can be simulated to predict your speech intelligibility in difficult hearing environments based on the proportion of speech cues that are audible to you.

A speech intelligibility index of 0 would mean that none of the speech in a given setting is audible or comprehensible, and an index of 1 would mean all of the speech was available to the listener.

The speech intelligibility index is a useful tool to understand and describe how your hearing loss impacts the way you comprehend speech. It is relatively easy to interpret and can help explain to your family and friends why your hearing loss not only impacts how well you hear sounds but also how well you understand speech.

Go beyond measuring your hearing

At Audiology First, we go beyond measuring hearing. Our evaluations seek to understand the reasons for your hearing loss, and we will examine where within the ear system there might be a problem.

We will visualize your hearing in an audiogram and determine the speech intelligibility index. Most importantly, we will connect the type and degree of loss you experience with the hearing challenges you face in your daily life. And then use this information to recommend the best next steps in your hearing care.

Hearing care with a personal connection

glennh@audiologyfirst.ca (Glenn Hole) — Fri, 24 Sep 2021 17:32:56 GMT

Fred Bosma experienced tremendous changes with his hearing aids over the years. Just with the batteries alone – his devices have gone from requiring new batteries every day to reliable rechargeable devices.

For decades now, Mr. Bosma relied on Dr. Thomas Copps and the team at Audiology First for testing, hearing aid technology and ongoing support. The technology has improved immensely over the years, but the service and care he received remained the same.

“You don’t realize what you lose in the world around you when you lose hearing,” describes Mr. Bosma. His hearing aids from Audiology First have reopened opportunities to hear a broader range of sounds that were once taken for granted.

“Smallest little birds can chirp so beautifully. When you get your hearing aids set properly, the whole world is full of beautiful music. It is life-changing.”

The advancements in technology have been profound. He recently replaced his older hearing aids with a newer model, which are 20 times more efficient than his previous devices.

“I recently went back to Audiology First and got the new system, and it is amazing,” says Mr. Bosma. After receiving the new devices, he returned to the clinic a few times for a friendly conversation with the Audiologist to ensure the hearing aids are comfortable and working as expected.

His family’s connection with Dr. Thomas Copps extends to the 1980s. When an advisor from the Workers’ Compensation Board recommended getting his hearing tested, Dr. Copps was the first choice.

“The service has been – to say the least – incredible. I would recommend him to anyone without reservation.”

Mr. Bosma considers his experience in noisy workplaces as a contributing factor to his hearing loss. In addition to a career as a teacher, he repaired oil tanker railcars and later helped manufacture truck bodies. He worked inside oil tankers with a rivet gun and listened to fellow workers cut aluminum with a saw.

“Can you imagine the noise!”

Over the years, Mr. Bosma followed Dr. Copps through different clinic locations and changes in the team. Audiology First has maintained the tradition of friendly service and professional audiological care – all while hearing technology has drastically improved.

“Dr. Copps looks you right in the eye and talks to you at your level,” says Mr. Bosma.

“With some professionals, it is like taking your car in. They fix the problem and then case closed. With Dr. Copps, you have a personal connection.”

This balance between expertise and sincerity continues to be the core reason that Mr. Bosma returns to Audiology First.

“I am thankful for medicine – for its contributions to a pleasant life and enjoying what’s around you,” Mr. Bosma adds.

“And audiologists are right at the top.”

What to Expect From a Hearing Test

glennh@audiologyfirst.ca (Glenn Hole) — Wed, 07 Apr 2021 19:11:13 GMT

Audiology First dives deeper into any unknowns to learn more about your hearing and provide better answers.

All hearing tests aim to answer the question: how well do you hear?

At Audiology First, we take it a step further and try to understand more about your hearing to answer these questions:

Why do you experience sounds the way you do?
Where in the ears and hearing system are there any issues or concerns?
What factors or experiences might have contributed to any hearing difficulties?
And most importantly – what are the options that can make the most significant difference to your hearing health?

Hearing challenges can be complex and challenging to understand, but the only way to find any answers is to get information. A hearing test is our primary tool to obtain data and insights into how you experience sounds and what is happening in your ears and brain.

If you’re new to hearing care, a hearing test helps you understand the current state of your hearing and if technology and treatment can improve your health and well-being.

If you already wear hearing aids, a hearing test from Audiology First will dive deeper into any unknowns. This will confirm what you already know and highlight any opportunities to leverage your hearing aids.

How Audiology First is Different

Testing is the foundation of both a diagnosis and a treatment plan. It helps us understand what is currently happening and what to expect from hearing care.

Many hearing clinics only perform basic hearing tests. These include hearing screening, simple speech and clarity tests, and a visual examination of the ears.

Audiology First is different. We take a science-based approach to hearing health care that includes detailed and thorough examinations with the latest diagnostic technology. After we understand how well you can hear, we immediately try to determine the why.

We are the most advanced hearing clinic in Southern Alberta because of our comprehensive approach to testing. Our audiologists go deeper to understand your hearing better – because outcomes are improved when everyone has more information to make a better decision.

What Happens During a Hearing Test

When you book a hearing test at Audiology First, you will meet one-on-one with an audiologist to go through the assessments and discuss your results. Our goal is to seek as many answers as possible during your test and then share them with you right away.

The typical steps to a hearing test at Audiology First are:

Your audiologist will ask questions to explore your medical history and lifestyle. This conversation will contribute to a diagnosis and help your audiologist understand how you experience sounds in various environments.
We will complete a range of hearing tests best suited to the hearing challenges that you are experiencing. This includes examining your ear organ, a review of your neurological functioning and measurement of your understanding of speech.
Whenever necessary, our team will complete advanced tests that can offer further insights. We are always happy to share the intent of every test and what we are hoping to learn from it.

The tests are painless and non-invasive. Our advanced diagnostic equipment makes the process more comfortable while delivering accurate and reliable results. The clinic also has multiple sound booths, so our audiologists never have to rush through appointments.

Sometimes the tests can feel repetitive or similar to the last one, but we rely on a range of assessments to pinpoint where there might be a problem. We don’t want to waste your time – instead, we want to get as much information as possible to save time, money and uncertainty in the future.

Tips for Your Hearing Test

Before your hearing test, reflect on how your hearing challenges impact your daily life. We will also ask questions to explore the impacts you may not even be aware of. This information can be just as helpful as the hard data we receive from hearing tests.
Feel free to bring a close friend or family member to your appointment. You will feel more comfortable, and it can be beneficial to have someone there to remember extra details or write down information. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, appointments may be limited to just you and your clinician. Please review the clinic’s COVID-19 guidelines or call us before bringing another person to your appointment.

What Happens After a Hearing Test

When the examination is complete, your audiologist will discuss your results in detail.

This conversation is equally important as the tests themselves. We want you to find the information as helpful as we do, so we will take the time to explain what we learned from the tests and review any outstanding questions we may have.

If the root cause of your challenges is known, we will walk you through the details of your hearing condition. If we still have more questions about your hearing health, we will work with you to schedule a follow-up appointment or refer you to a specialist.

We will also take the time to go through all of your treatment and technology options. If hearing aids are an option, we will discuss what you can expect from using hearing aids regularly in your daily life.

But you don’t need to commit to anything right away. Our goal is to ensure you have all of the information you need, so you can take the next step when you are ready.

Meet our audiologists

glennh@audiologyfirst.ca (Glenn Hole) — Mon, 08 Mar 2021 22:08:43 GMT

Our Lethbridge audiologists connect you with the science of hearing

The Audiology First team is a reflection of our approach to hearing care.

We have three full-time audiologists, which is unique for a Lethbridge hearing clinic and even uncommon in clinics in bigger cities. Our focus is deeply rooted in the study of hearing health and what can be done to improve hearing.

As the leading audiology clinic in Southern Alberta, we are respected by medical professionals and hearing experts in Lethbridge and beyond. We have a keen interest in the science but remain grounded in the daily challenges and opportunities of hearing care. For you, this means:

The science of hearing guides every step of your care
Your questions will be answered using the information from comprehensive testing
Learn from a team that is always studying and contributing to emerging research
Get recommendations for the most suitable technology or treatment for your challenges

Meet the Audiology First team or visit our Lethbridge hearing clinic to chat about your hearing health.

Roles of hearing care professionals

Our team collaborates to understand your hearing health and find the best technologies, treatments and strategies to live a better life. When you visit Audiology First, you will meet with one of our audiologists.

Audiologists

Our team includes three audiologists: Tom Copps, Glenn Hole and Femi Coo.

Tom is the co-owner of Audiology First and has been practicing audiology since 1988. To clarify the role of an audiologist, he uses the example of eye care. An ophthalmologist, optometrist and optician all contribute to various aspects of eye care. In hearing care, an ear, nose and throat doctor, audiologist or hearing aid practitioner may be involved depending on your needs.

Audiologists have extensive education and specialized training in the hearing system. They are not medical doctors, but audiologists are experts in assessing and managing hearing and balance disorders.

"Our role is to evaluate all aspects of hearing to determine if and where a problem might exist and if we can help provide solutions," says Tom. He received his Masters of Audiology in 1988 and his Doctorate in Audiology in 2007.

Even though audiologists are focused on hearing and ear-related conditions, they collaborate with a wider community of professionals.

"We make referrals to other healthcare providers such as speech-language pathologists, psychologists, educational professionals, and physicians," adds Glenn, who received his Master of Science in Clinical Audiology in 2020.

Hearing Aid Practitioners

Hearing aid practitioners are dedicated to hearing technology, including selecting, fitting, and maintaining hearing aids. Donna Copps is the co-owner of Audiology First and a hearing aid practitioner – along with also overseeing the clinic's technology.

Connecting you with the latest technology

Hearing care is at the forefront of wearable technology that makes a tangible difference in the wearers' lives. These incredible benefits are an inspiration to choose a career in audiology.

Glenn started his career as a clinical audiologist in England before moving to Canada in 2011.

"I wanted to get into a profession where technology was being used to benefit medical problems," he says. "This was the perfect crossover for me."

The pace of new technology expands the capability of hearing for a wider range of hearing challenges.

"This explosion in technology is slowly – but steadily – breaking down the stigma of hearing aids, resulting in more people being comfortable wearing hearing aids," says Femi, a doctor in audiology since 2015.

There will hopefully be even better technology and treatments to assist with hearing loss and disorders in the future. Until then, hearing aids will continue to improve and provide incredible results for people of all ages.

"I expect hearing devices will become more integrated with other devices and will lead to better life interactions," explains Tom.

"We will not be able to fix hearing damage for some time, so audiologists will continue to assess and care for individuals with hearing loss until a 'cure' is available."

Advancing the field of audiology

Tom, Femi and Glenn continue to keep up with any advancements in hearing care and also contribute to new research. They collaborate with neuroscientists in Alberta, and their research is an opportunity to improve the care of the people they see at Audiology First.

"The science and technology in the field is ever-changing, and it constantly provides new options for assessment and care," says Tom.

Research at Audiology First

When you visit Audiology First, you're not a guinea pig for new experiments. Instead, our audiologists will leverage the latest in audiological research to improve your hearing and well-being.

Tinnitus

"Currently, we are assisting with tinnitus (ringing in the ears) research," says Tom.

"This area requires study from many different directions. We have had the great fortune to be able to collaborate in research with neuroscientists at the University of Lethbridge."

Helping individuals with various hearing conditions keeps our team grounded in the day-to-day realities of hearing challenges. We help connect emerging science with the real-life experiences of people living with tinnitus.

"Our current research project is investigating the relationships between tinnitus, hyperacusis (finding ordinary sounds too loud), anxiety, depression and insomnia," says Glenn.

"While this can be a more physiological issue in some, I am highly motivated to pinpoint where the patient's psychological makeup and lifestyle is preventing them from adapting to tinnitus."

Hearing loss prevention

"In audiology, we often emphasize what to do after you get a hearing loss but not so much on how to prevent hearing loss," says Femi.

"I am very interested in hearing conservation in the work setting and recreational settings, such as concerts."

This research is an opportunity to go deeper into our patients' background, lifestyle, employment, and hobbies. The more our team understands about your hearing, the better we can recommend your next steps.

The research is a win-win for everyone.

"Audiology First published a research paper where we investigated some of the effects of occupational noise exposure on the auditory system," adds Femi. Noise Damage Accelerates Auditory Aging and Tinnitus: A Canadian Population-Based Study was published in Otology & Neurotology in December 2020.

"The information we learned has proven invaluable when discussing hearing conservation."

Meet our Lethbridge audiologists

Our team is passionate about hearing care, and we appreciate every opportunity to share our education and experience with anyone that visits our Lethbridge hearing clinic.

"As a doctor of audiology, I get to use great technology to improve the lives of the remarkable patients I see every day," explains Femi. "I'm living my passion."

Book an appointment to chat with a Lethbridge audiologist at Audiology First.

Ear Protection

glennh@audiologyfirst.ca (Glenn Hole) — Sat, 30 Nov 2019 22:23:40 GMT

Ear Protection

Protecting your hearing is incredibly important, no matter your age. Consistently listening to loud music, being around noisy machinery, using firearms or being rough with your ears will lead to damaged hearing. So, how do you protect your ears against this?

When Listening to Music

Whether you are listening to music with your headphones, in your car, or at a concert, it is so important to protect your ears. Keep the volume to a comfortably low level. If you are at a concert, bring protective hearing devices such as earplugs or ear muffs.

Why is it that we protect our children’s ears when we go to a movie or a concert, but we don’t regard our own? Everyone’s hearing is important. If you are proactive about avoiding hearing damage, then you may not need to worry about using hearing aids in the future.

Working Around Loud Machinery

If you are in a workplace surrounded by loud machinery, we’re sure you have heard the safety regulations: wear protective ear plugs or ear muffs. It is also important to remember to protect your hearing at home if you are working on construction projects or with machinery. No matter where you are, protect your ears!

How to Protect Your Ears

There are a few things you may use to protect your ears:

Ear Plugs: these can be generic foam or plastic ear plugs you buy from any hardware store. Make sure you follow the instructions and insert them correctly into your ears.

Custom-fit Ear Plugs: this is a more expensive option, but having custom-fit ear plugs shaped to the exact fit of your ear will do a fantastic job at protecting your hearing. If you are constantly around loud noises, we strongly suggest this option.

Noise Cancelling Ear Muffs: while these are more bulky than normal ear plugs, they do the trick! Make sure you test them and that they are approved for the noise source, before using them around damaging noises. Ensure you follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Musician Earmolds: Custom musician earmolds are used when musicians practice and perform in a variety of different settings and they are exposed to high levels of sound for long periods of time. Custom musician earmolds can also be used by fans to protect their hearing while enjoying concerts.

Be proactive when it comes to your hearing. Protect your ears!

Preparing for Your Appointment at Audiology First

glennh@audiologyfirst.ca (Glenn Hole) — Sat, 30 Nov 2019 22:21:35 GMT

First Time

If you are new to visiting a hearing care professional, there are a few things you may like to know before your appointment. Upon arrival, your hearing care professional will discuss your hearing history to better understand your needs and what factors have influenced your hearing. Following the get-to-know-you questions, you will be given a hearing exam, which may also include a listening experience with a hearing device for practice and to gauge the levels of your hearing loss.

Your hearing aid professional will take some time to examine your results and will then explain them to you in thorough and helpful detail. Depending on how your hearing is, your ear care professional may recommend hearing aids, and spend some time with you going over your options.

If this is your first visit, many people prefer to bring along a family member or friend to their appointment. This may help you feel more comfortable sharing your hearing experience.

Preparing

It’s helpful to know a bit about your hearing before arriving at your hearing assessment. So, how does hearing work exactly? It’s actually your brain that does the hearing. Our ears and brain work together. Your ears funnel information into the hearing system and your brain processes the information into meaningful sound.

Why it’s Good to Check Your Hearing

Now that you know a bit about how your hearing works, you should also know why it’s important to get it checked. When you have hearing loss, your ears lose their abilities to pick up certain sounds. This in turn forces your brain to work harder to “fill in the gaps” of what is being said. This requires a ton of mental resources that can leave you feeling exhausted and can even result in increased risk of dementia. (this will link to our other blog post)

Questions to Ask Yourself

Before you come in for your visit to Audiology First, think about what how much noise you may have been exposed to during your lifetime (loud concerts, working in construction, always wearing protective ear covering, etc.) so you can share that information with us.

We may also wish to know about previous hearing tests you may have had, ear infections, surgeries on the ears, head injuries, medications, your family history of hearing problems, dizziness and balance problems, ringing in the ears and a whole range of other questions relating to your hearing.

Also consider how your hearing seems on a day-to-day basis. Is your brain working harder than it should?

Here is a list of some of the things you should consider:

Do I have difficulties hearing the television?
Do I find that people mumble a lot?
I find it difficult to hear speech in places such as restaurants and parties.
It is difficult to determine where sounds are coming from.
It is hard to concentrate when more than one person is speaking to me.
I believe a hearing aid can change my quality of life.

Please contact us if you have any further questions before your hearing assessment. It is important to us that you get the best possible results moving forward!

Moisture in Hearing Aids

glennh@audiologyfirst.ca (Glenn Hole) — Sat, 30 Nov 2019 22:16:54 GMT

What Do I Do If My Hearing Aid Gets Wet?

Don’t Panic!

While water damage used to be a huge problem for hearing aids, most modern hearing aids sold by Audiology First have some degree of moisture protection. For example, the new Opn series from Oticon have the highest protection status available; the IP68 classification. This means that the hearing aids are completely protected from long term water immersion up to a specified pressure (they are tested for 30 minutes at a depth of 1.5 meters). That means that hearing aids are usually able to fully recover if they end up getting drenched in a rain shower, splashed with water or accidentally worn swimming!

If your hearing aids get wet, remove the battery and leave the battery drawer wide open. Place the hearing aids on a paper towel or other absorbent material in a dry, warm location. Within about 30 minutes the hearing aid will be dry enough to put a new battery in and should operate normally.

Making the Hearing Aids Last

Not all hearing aids have as high a protection classification against moisture. For some older hearing aids, it is important to remove excess daily moisture buildup to keep the components, sound quality and overall functioning of the device at top condition. Everyday moisture buildup can be caused by sweat, or water condensation due to hot or cold temperatures. If you do not remove the moisture from some hearing aids, this can eventually lead to corrosion and malfunction. For best results, it is recommended you dry your hearing aid nightly. For some, this is just as simple as leaving the battery drawer open each night and letting the air circulate through the hearing aid system. However, it can be good practice to use a dedicated drying system with your hearing aids in order to maintain them for longer, regardless of IP rating.

There are several viable options you may use to remove the moisture, and some of these also include a sanitizing function that will eliminate bacteria and keep your hearing aid hygienic and clean. Audiology First, your hearing aids clinic in Lethbridge, offers a few different options for your drying and/or sanitizing needs.

PerfectDry Lux Universal Sanitizer Dryer

This hearing aid dryer is perfect for any hearing aid, including all plastics and ear molds, and contains a UV light that has the approximate lifespan of 10,000 hours (estimated to be over a year and a half with daily use) before you need to change the bulb.

The UV light removes microorganisms such as viruses, bacteria, yeasts, fungi and mildew. The lamp is a short wave, low pressure mercury vapour tube that produces Ultra Violet wavelengths that are lethal to bacteria. The light runs for 8 minutes and shuts off automatically when finished.

Hal-Hen Super Dri-Aid

The Hal-Hen Dri-Aid is a jar of absorbent white and blue beads. The beads are used to pull moisture out of your hearing aid. You simply place the hearing aid into the jar every night and tightly close the lid. Eventually, over a long period of use, the blue beads turn white, indicating that the jar cannot absorb any more moisture. Once they have changed colour, simply follow the instructions on the package to recharge the drying kit (the jar is placed in the oven to dry the beads out again). While this is a much cheaper option than the PerfectDry Lux, it simply removes moisture without sanitizing the hearing aid.

Options

The PerfectDry Lux Universal Sanitizer and Dryer and the Hal-Hen Super Dri-Aid are two options for removing moisture from your hearing aid, which should be done regularly. Visit Audiology First in Lethbridge and find out what option best suits your needs. It is so important to take care of your hearing aid to ensure you get the best use out of it!

Feedback Noise Issues from Your Hearing Aid

glennh@audiologyfirst.ca (Glenn Hole) — Sat, 30 Nov 2019 22:13:47 GMT

Automatic Feedback Suppression

Most advanced hearing aids are equipped with automatic feedback suppression, so when issues occur it may be a sign of a larger problem. There are three main classifications for hearing aid feedback: mechanical, electronic and acoustical.

Mechanical Feedback

When physical vibrations develop from the hearing aid speaker being in contact with the casing, this is called mechanical feedback. The vibrations are transferred through the casing and into the microphone. If this is the issue, get it looked at by a hearing aid technician.

Electronic Feedback

A malfunction in the circuitry of the device will cause electronic feedback and will need a service technician to repair. Do not try pulling apart the device yourself, as further damage could be caused.

Acoustical Feedback

This is caused by a loop in the hearing aid, where amplified sound from the hearing aid speaker is recycled through the microphone, causing the pitch to continuously rise. This is the easiest of the three feedback issues to repair:

Check for ear wax. Ear wax could be the cause of the sound wave bouncing through the hearing aid and being amplified by the microphone.
Check the fit. If the hearing aid is loose, it can cause feedback noise, so try pushing the device further into your ear canal. If that does not fix the issue, it is also possible that your speaker is directed into the wall of your ear canal, and you can test this by pulling your ear lobes back. If the feedback ceases while your ear lobes are back, then your hearing aid needs to be refitted.
Check for damage. Your hearing aid’s sound tube may have been damaged from aggressive cleaning, your microphone being pushed in, or a crack in the casing. If there is damage, we recommend you meet with a technician as soon as possible to get it repaired.

Fix the Feedback

If you do have issues with feedback on your hearing aid, make sure you get it taken care of as soon as possible. That whistling, screeching sound is not only unpleasant, but unhealthy. If you have tried these at-home solutions and are still having issues, book an appointment with us to get it fixed. We’re happy to help!

The Link Between Hearing Loss and Dementia

glennh@audiologyfirst.ca (Glenn Hole) — Sat, 30 Nov 2019 22:11:09 GMT

Decline Leads to Decline

Recent research shows that aging members of the community who experience hearing loss may also begin to experience a decline in memory and cognitive abilities. That is why hearing loss cannot go untreated. In fact, studies suggest that hearing loss may have a similar effect on younger adults suffering with hearing loss. Though there has been no conclusive evidence as to why this is happening, research proves that there is a correlation between the decrease of mental skills and the loss of hearing, and there are several theories as to why.

The Theories

One theory to go along with this research suggests the possibility that the same mechanism in the brain that causes hearing impairment, may also be responsible for memory decline.

A second theory suggests that with a decline in hearing, a person’s brain must work harder to hear muffled sounds and make sense of them. This strain may re-route effort in the brain to focus harder on this one particular region, while ignoring other, equally important functions, including memory and the ability to discern language.

Lastly, the isolation caused by deafness or near-deafness may inhibit the brain because of reduced stimuli and, by extension, decreased social interaction.

The Good News

Many of us assume that hearing loss and dementia are just some of the results of aging. The good news is that the more effort we put into seriously maintaining our hearing health (by getting checked regularly and using hearing aids where required), we could be greatly reducing the changes of cognitive decline.

Cited Sources:

http://blog.aarp.org/2013/01/23/hearing-loss-may-speed-up-dementia/

https://www.aarp.org/health/brain-health/info-07-2013/hearing-loss-linked-to-dementia.html

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4075051/

How To Change Your Hearing Aid’s Filter

glennh@audiologyfirst.ca (Glenn Hole) — Sat, 30 Nov 2019 22:09:28 GMT

DID YOU KNOW that a blocked wax filter is almost as common as a dead battery?

Regular cleaning & maintenance of your hearing aid is an excellent way to ensure that you’re always giving yourself the best hearing experience possible.

Follow along with our guide below for a look at how you can change out your Hearing Aid’s Wax Filter.

1. Prepare Your Tool

The tool itself has two pins. The first one is empty and intended to be used for wax filter removal, the other pin will have a new wax filter.

2. Remove Wax w/Tool

Push the empty pin into the wax filter in the speaker and pull it out.

3. Insert New Wax Filter

Insert the new wax filter (found on the other pin), then you may remove the tool and dispose of it.

4. Final Step

The speaker should look clean and unobstructed, as seen in the final image, when you have finished replacing the wax filter.

How to Change your Hearing Aid Batteries

Sat, 30 Nov 2019 20:00:08 GMT

When you are not using your hearing aid, turn it off to preserve battery power by opening the battery drawer. You will know it’s time to change your battery when you hear two consecutive beeps. If you hear four beeps, that is your final warning before the hearing aid turns off.

Note: if your battery has any sort of moisture on its surface, wipe it off before using it.

To change your hearing aid battery, you must first determine which type of hearing aid you are wearing:

Behind the Ear
In the Ear

Once a new or freshly charged rechargeable battery is placed in your hearing aid, it will start up with a ‘jingle’, and is ready for use.

Rechargeable Hearing Aids are Here!

Sat, 30 Nov 2019 20:00:08 GMT

Let’s face it. Changing batteries can be a chore…

Hearing aids have always needed power in the form of a battery, and while hearing aids have become more sophisticated over time, battery technology has stayed relatively simple and predictable; disposable batteries drain gradually over a few days before needing to be replaced.

The average hearing aid user will use about one battery per week per hearing aid, so that’s over a 100 batteries per year! That’s a lot of waste, and while Zinc-air batteries are less toxic than the older Mercury based ones, they still need to be disposed of safely and in a way that doesn’t harm the environment.

Introducing the ZPower Rechargeable Battery System

We’re excited to introduce the new rechargeable system from ZPower for Oticon Opn hearing aids. Because of its high energy efficiency and environmentally-friendly approach, the ZPower battery system holds more charge capacity than most rechargeable batteries; it is long lasting, non-flammable and non-toxic, and it is fully recyclable. You don’t have to remove batteries from your hearing aid every week anymore!

The Oticon Opn miniRITE is now rechargeable!

Oticon offers the rechargeable kit with the Opn miniRITE models with a 312 battery. To make the change to rechargeable, we simply retrofit each of your existing Opn hearing aids with a new battery drawer that works with the ZPower charger. You may notice a slightly different appearance of the battery drawer, but apart from that, the hearing aid looks exactly the same. The batteries have the appearance of gold, rather than silver.

How to Use the System

Just use your hearing aids as normal.

When the hearing aids run out of power, just place them in the charger overnight. You will know your hearing aid is charging when the green light is blinking on the charging dock. Once removing your hearing aid from the charger, it will automatically turn on and connect to your devices! Simple!

Once fully charged, your rechargeable Oticon Opn hearing aids will normally last between 15 to 19 hours, even with up to 4 hours of TV or phone streaming! Be aware that more streaming will deplete the batteries more quickly.

Once they are fully drained, it will take approximately 7 hours to return the hearing aids to a full charge, so we recommend that you charge the battery at night-time while you are asleep.

If you forget to bring your charger with you on a trip or vacation, you can still use regular disposable 312 zinc-air batteries – just keep the rechargeable ones safe until you get back to the charger! It’s a good idea to keep a package of disposables nearby just in case you need them.

Lifetime and Tips

ZPower rechargeable batteries last for approximately one year, and their life can be extended in a few ways:

Charge the hearing aids before wearing them
Charge the hearing aids in a temperature between 10 and 40 degrees C
Only plug in the hearing aids if the charger is plugged in
Remove the rechargeable batteries when you are not using your hearing aid for extended periods
You should contact us if you feel that your ZPower batteries are starting to run out too quickly.

At Audiology First, we are very excited about what rechargeable hearing aids can do for you. So, say goodbye to changing batteries, and HELLO to charging them! Call us for a quote on upgrading your hearing aids to the new ZPower rechargeable kit!

Ear Care

Sat, 30 Nov 2019 20:00:07 GMT

Why Care?

Your hearing is important to you, right? There are two types of ear care you should consider, and no matter your age, these tips are for everyone. The better we take care of our ears, the less time we need to spend trying to deal with the damage. Poor ear care or trauma can lead to the need for hearing aids. These tips may help you to prevent further damage, or avoid it altogether.

Clean Ears

The human ear is designed to take care of itself for the most part. While it’s important to wash the outside of your ears, you should never place any objects or fluid in your ears (unless a health physician deems necessary otherwise). As you have probably heard, you should never insert anything in your ear that is smaller than your elbow! Doing so may push your earwax deeper into your ear canal, which may affect your hearing or damage your eardrum.

Causes of ear pain could be due to a build-up of wax, or an infection. When it comes to your ears, don’t self-diagnose. If you’re in pain, or are experiencing hearing loss, consult a doctor. Your ears are a very important organ, and should not be ignored.

Protected Ears

If you are prone to getting water in your ears, we suggest you wear ear plugs. Dirty water entering your ear can cause infection and pain, and if untreated, could cause irreparable damage.

Ear plugs are also essential when in a loud space, such as working with heavy machinery, attending an indoor concert, or even watching a loud movie. Our ears are sensitive, and ear protectors may help save your hearing.

Listening to your music with headphones at maximum volume will continuously and further damage your hearing. You should never have a noise that is loud enough to be unbearable. The instinct you have to cover your ears is a good one. It means it’s too loud.

These Things Happen

Finally, we know that things happen, and we can’t always prevent them. Trauma to an eardrum happens. We subject ourselves to loud noises. We get ear infections, and loss of hearing is sometimes unavoidable. That’s why it’s essential for you to get your ears examined on a regular basis. Stay on top of your ear health, and take the preventive measures to keep your ears in pristine condition! If you have further questions about the health of your hearing, take a hearing test today.