People who have hearing difficulties or hearing loss rely on technology to feel connected to the hearing world. The term ‘plugged-in’, in a Wi-Fi world, is an outdated statement. However, in some form or another, we are all plugged in to something via headphones, earbuds (hearables), hearing aids or hearing amplifiers. 

From making the Zoom meeting sound better, your favourite music louder, neighbourhood gossip clearer, nature seem closer, hearing gadgets are supposed to give us hearing benefits. 

Well, this is where things get interesting because not all hearing gadgets are equal.

which is right for you?

Let us begin with hearing amplifiers and put everything on the table so that you can make the most informed decision yourself! 

Commonly known as PSAP’s (Personal Sound Amplification Products), they are NOT intended for people with hearing loss. Their main purpose is to help people hear everything around them at a louder volume – speech, background noise, sudden sounds around you – you will hear them all louder, but not necessarily clearer. PSAP’s are not scientifically approved hearing aids.

Collectively called Hearables, this refers to airpods, earbuds or wearables. These fashionable and practical wireless headphones are perfect for on-the-go ear-level entertainment such as meetings, music and accessing Google Assistant, Siri and Alexa. 

They are not intended for people with hearing loss. Hearables set you free from a wired world, yet that’s all they do and in no way act as a hearing aid that assists people with hearing difficulties.

Over recent years, hearing aids have gone through a complete metamorphosis. They are now smaller, sleeker, Bluetooth enabled and technologically advanced on so many levels. They are like little computers inside our ears, equipped even with artificial intelligence to automatically process sound around us.

These are serious devices to help with hearing loss and other hearing issues and require an individualised hearing test. They also help to reduce background noise, so any noisy environment is tackled with ease whilst the focus of the hearing aids remains your ability to focus on conversations clearly.

Hearing aids allow you to communicate with ease, interact freely and naturally and actively participate and engage in life.

Unfortunately, sensorineural hearing loss is not reversible, but you can make a difference by being aware of the following:

• Make sure you maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
• Get your hearing checked at Hearing Works.
• Avoid loud noises if you can.
• Speak to your doctor about any medicines you are taking and if they are Ototoxic, i.e. they can damage your hearing.

Hearing Works is here to walk beside you on your hearing journey and to encourage you to make an informed decision for your hearing situation.

If you are Diabetic, concerned about hearing loss or need expert advice, speak to a Hearing Works hearing care professional today so that you don’t miss out on the absolute joy of hearing in the future.

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