Treating Hearing Loss with Hearing Aids The Primary Non-Medical/Non-Surgical Way to Treat Hearing Loss Hearing aids allow those with hearing loss the ability to hear sounds and more easily communicate with others. For hearing loss that cannot be medically or surgically treated, hearing aids are the primary means of treatment. Audiologists are trained to diagnose hearing and balance disorders, as well as consult in the selection of hearing aids, fittingand adjusting. Standard or Custom Aids--Let Us Help You Decide what Will Best Meet your Hearing Needs Hearing aids come in several styles or types, classified as standard or custom aids. Standard aids have a component of the hearing aid that sits behind the ear and a wire or tube connected to the earpiece. Custom aids require a custom-molded shell and the hearing aid fits as one piece in the ear. Choosing between these styles is based on an individual's needs, as well as medical and audiologic history. Advancements in Technology Improve the Hearing Aid Experience Advancements in hearing aid technology have improved hearing aid comfort, sound quality and fit. Options such as directional microphones to enhance conversation in noise, feedback cancellation to prevent the hearing aid from whistling, noise management to make loud environments more comfortable and wireless connectivity for phones or television are now improving the hearing aid experience. Professional Programming and Fitting Services Once hearing aids are selected with the help of your audiologist, they will be programmed and fit to your ears, hearing and comfort. Hearing Aids Improve Quality of Life Hearing aids have shown to improve quality of life by reducing withdrawal from social situations, fatigue and risks to personal safety. Even with the best hearing aid technology, maintaining realistic expectations are important. Based on individual hearing needs and lifestyle, everyone's experience with hearing aids is unique. While hearing aids will not restore hearing back to normal, they will provide access to the world of sound around you. Adapting to this new world of sound may take some time, but it is well worth the journey as it allows you to reconnect socially, feel more refreshed and live more safely.