Category Archives: Hearing tests
Hearing loss as you get older
Hearing loss as you get older
Henley Hearing Clinic
A new report from the Oticonhearing suggests that as you get older we all start to lose our hearing which we all know. However the amount of hearing loss is practically not known unless you survey and test many many 1000’s of people. The new report surveyed the ” Rock and Roll” generation and the findings are pretty stark reading.
Henley hearing test
The report is bellow, it’s a sober fact that hearing loss does happen in constant loud environments even if you are enjoying the experience. If you feel that maybe you had done a lot of head banging back in the day and maybe feel a little hard of hearing sometimes, book in and let’s try and correct some of the hearing loss. At least then you can turn down your Iron Maiden via your iPhone directly to your hearing device.
Henley hearing aids
Hearing loss can be over come with todays new digital hearing aids. Henley Hearing Clinic Bucks
Oticon Hearing Health Poll Shows Hearing Loss Among Woodstock Generation
Fifty years after the iconic “Three Days of Peace and Music,” a just-released survey by The Harris Poll, commissioned by Oticon, Inc, suggests that members of the Woodstock Generation may be experiencing unintended consequences of their love of hard-charging, culture-changing rock n’ roll. According to the online survey of more than 1,000 US adults ages 65-80 conducted in June, the prevalence of hearing loss among those who listened to loud music when they were young (ie, in their teens and 20s) is 40% greater than the percentage of hearing loss indicated in studies of older Americans that don’t include questions about music listening habits, Oticon announced.
That fact, and many more revealed in The Harris Poll survey, are at the core of Oticon’s nationwide media blitz to alert adults and young people to the importance of hearing health for maintaining lifelong quality of life. Timed to coincide with Woodstock celebrations across the country, Oticon has launched a targeted media campaign that includes media interviews by Oticon audiologists and a network of hearing care professionals in local markets, press releases, social media posts, and a colorful infographic, all to drive home the risks of noise and age-related hearing loss and the need for regular hearing health checks.
Then and Now Hearing Health Matters
“We recognized a unique opportunity to tap into consumer and media excitement around the 50thanniversary of Woodstock to promote a hearing health message that would resonate with people of all ages, especially music lovers,” said Gary Rosenblum, President of Oticon, Inc. “The survey results allow us to demonstrate the far-reaching consequences of loud music listening on hearing health. Fifty years ago, many believed that turning up the volume and seeking out concerts with the biggest speakers contributed to music enjoyment. Today, we know the long-term effects of noise on hearing health and the importance of protecting hearing to maintain not only the ability to enjoy music and conversation but overall quality of life.”
The Harris Poll survey questioned the Woodstock Generation about their listening habits in their youth and their ability to hear and enjoy music now. The survey found that 47% of the Woodstock Generation who listened to loud or very loud music when they were in their teens and 20s now report hearing loss. As a result, many of the Woodstock Generation (41%) say they are unable to enjoy music as they once did. The negative impact of hearing loss on their ability to participate in social activities/gatherings, at least a little, was reported by 41% of those adults with hearing loss, and 38% say their hearing loss affects relationships with family or friends, at least a little. Approximately 52% state that, at least sometimes, they have difficulty understanding what is being said in loud environments like busy restaurants.
From “Survey Says” to Call to Action
One survey finding provides an opportunity to communicate a powerful call to action about hearing healthcare.
Despite hearing challenges, the study found that many members of the Woodstock Generation have not taken steps to address their hearing loss. The majority of these adults (70%) have never seen a hearing care professional specifically about their hearing. Only around one in 10 (12%) have used hearing aids either currently or in the past.
“Helping consumers to understand that addressing hearing loss will allow them to not just enjoy music again but live fuller, more social lives is a central goal of our media outreach,” said Rosenblum. “The ability of today’s high-performance hearing aids, like Oticon Opn S, to provide wearers with access to a full range of sounds, and the possibility of again enjoying a richer, more authentic music experience, is a meaningful benefit not just to the Woodstock Generation but to all people who experience hearing loss.”
To learn more about the Harris Poll survey and to download the infographic, visit: www.oticon.com/woodstock.
Research Methodology
This survey was conducted online within the US by The Harris Poll between June 5 and June 12, 2019 on behalf of Oticon among 1,006 US adults age 65-80 (“Woodstock Generation”) including 437 older adults with hearing loss. Data were statistically weighted where necessary by age, sex, education, race/ethnicity, region, income, household size, marital status, and employment status to bring them into line with their actual proportions in the population.
Source: Oticon, The Harris Poll
Image: Oticon
Hearing test Henley
Hearing test Henley
Hearing test Henley at the Henley Hearing Clinic.
Hearing test Bucks at the Henley Hearing Clinic. We all need good hearing and that’s just a fact. Imagine not being able to hear the door bell, or hear your new grand child as they talk to you wanting to find out about Gran or Grandad. There are so many ways we need hearing in our daily life. Just talking to someone without lip reading your way through the conversation hoping to catch what they are saying so you can respond correctly. It can be stressful not being included in what is going on around you.
To book a hearing tests in Bucks click here
Henley hearing can help, we are specialist hearing care practitioners with many years in the hear care business. Leon cox is a specialist in ear wax removal and dispensing hearing aids after the comprehensive hearing test known to man kind in Buckinghamshire. If your ears are clear of wax and after the hearing test Leon will sit with you and explain carefully what he has found regards your hearing. He will show you on a screen the test results so you are in complete control of your next move.
With knowledge of the hearing results Leon will then guide you on what hearing aid or aids are best suited to your hearing needs. It maybe after the hearing test you don’t actually need hearing aids. Knowledge is a good thing either way. Just like eye examinations, hearing tests are just as much needed when you reach a certain age. If you think you may benefit from a hearing test then please book an appointment and call reception or use the Contact form here to make a booking.
To book your free hearing test click here
NHS Hearing Aid Ban
Amidst ever increasing government cuts, the NHS has taken a huge impact.
This week, NHS leaders have proposed to save £1.2 million by no longer giving out hearing aids to patients with mild to moderate hearing loss. The proposed cuts would affect patients living in the Newcastle Borough and the Staffordshire Moorlands if approved.
Although this may seem far from home, the reality of the impending lack of NHS funding is not. Even this week Doctors surgeries hit the headlines for deducting elderly patients from their books, being considered most vulnerable and therefore the most expensive patients to maintain.
Hearing loss is not a minor health issue that can simply be ignored or delayed. That is until the increasing severity of it reaches NHS criteria to do something about it, by which point the damage is done.
As NHS cuts increase more and more people will be moving to the world of private healthcare although not without doubts regarding cost and reliability.
Here at Chalfont Hearing Centre we provide all the information you need to make an educated decision regarding your hearing. We are also clear and transparent with our competitive prices. If in the instance that your hearing loss can not be benefitted with hearing aids, and you need further assistance then we shall be honest with you and guide you in the right direction.
Being a private family run practice, we can offer you almost instant peace of mind and relief from your hearing loss, as we aim to see all our patients within a maximum of 3 days for a hearing assessment or consultation. This can be in as little as 24 hours, compared to anywhere from 3 weeks to 3 months just for a hearing assessment once you have been referred by your GP on the NHS.
Once you have had your assessment, if hearing aids are the avenue that you choose; we offer the latest in hearing aid technology from a variety of manufacturers, at a range of affordable prices. Our hearing aids come in a range of sizes and designs to suit your needs entirely, compared to the limited selection available on the NHS. We also go that step further, and can advise and provide for you, a host of accessories available to hearing aid users, from phones to Iphone Apps.
Depending on your choice of hearing aid you could be fitted with your selected aid in as little as 24 hours.
After you have been fitted with your desired hearing aid, if you have any problems or queries we are just a telephone call away to book an appointment or for our experienced Audiologists to visit you at home to ensure your optimum comfort.
So whilst the NHS is cutting back on its services we are steadily increasing ours. If you or a loved one would like to find out more about the services that we can offer you then contact us today :
Phone: 01494 765144 or Email: chalfonthearingcentre@live.co.uk
Free Hearing Test? Private health insurance will cover the cost
Did you know that if you have private health insurance you can reclaim the cost of a private hearing test! Most policies will reimburse you up to
£80 for a hearing assessment. Annual hearing tests are as important as optical and dental check ups, they can also identify potential health problems that may go undetected. Appointments can often be booked within 48 hours and testing is often more thorough than through the NHS.
Its also interesting to know that if you have a profound hearing loss some policies will also cover the cost of cochlea implants or bone anchored hearing aids. Private health insurance often does not cover you for the cost of private hearing aids, but it may be worth checking. To book a hearing test then contact us today on 01494 765144.
PSAPS Vs HEARING AIDS - Important Information
Would you like a free hearing amplifier? Hearing aids for £15.99? Im sure you have all seen such advertisements in local and national newspapers suggesting that your hearing can be restored for a nominal charge or even for nothing at all, however these devices are not ‘hearing aids’. The cheap price might sound enticing, however personal sound amplification devices (PSAPS) could actually damage your hearing. As they just ‘amplify’ sounds with no consideration for prescription, resulting in a strong potential for over-amplification which can contribute to further hearing loss.
Like most hearing professionals I am frequently asked by new patients ‘whats the difference between this £15.99 amplification device and your hearing aids?’, besides the cost there are several important differences, which can seriously affect your hearing.
A PSAP will not distinguish between the types of sound you are listening to, there are no adjustments made for speech and noise. Therefore other than in simple listening situations like TV viewing, the device won’t help in background noise. The PSAP is basically an amplifier, which makes everything louder. In comparison, a hearing aid is equipped with a digital sound processing chip which analyses input sound and provides calculated gain that is comfortable and safe.
The PSAP is a generic fit instrument that provides the same fit and performance for every listener. Hearing aids are custom built and programmed, ensuring it is tailored individually for you. For the price conscious there are better options available that do not have to cost the earth, basic digital hearing aids can be acquired for reasonable money.
Properly fitted hearing aids by an hearing professional that you trust is the only safe way to improve and conserve your hearing levels. If you are concerned about your hearing or whether your current hearing devices are suitable then why not pop in to see us in Little Chalfont, Amersham and speak to us! Appointments are not necessary but advised so call us on 01494 765144.
Verification of digital hearing aid fittings; Real Ear Measurements (REMs) versus In-Situ fitting
This has been a subject that I have had strong views on. However, overtime I have changed my position slightly. But I have taken some research from several recent journals including https://www.ihsinfo.org/ihsv2/Ceus/pdf/2008_July_Aug_Sept_THP.pdf to help clarify my current stance.
Hearing aid fitting software has a built- in audiometer to obtain hearing levels with the hearing aid in the ear. This procedure is called in situ audiometry. “In situ” is a Latin phrase meaning “in place” . In the case of hearing instruments, it refers to measurements taken with the hearing aid in its natural location: correctly fitted in the ear. The procedure also accounts for the effects of the depth of the instrument in the ear canal, the effectiveness of the seal in the ear canal, the effects of venting, and the specific receiver in that instrument. When we are using the fitting software to set the target and perform the initial adjustments we rely exclusively on the hearing levels (HTLs) obtained during the audiologic evaluation. The fitting formulas used to set the target gain contain the proper algorithms to compute the gain targets based on the desired input levels and hearing instrument style. However, these algorithms are all based on average data. By including data obtained for your specific patient and his or her specific hearing instrument, we are adding a level of customization that patients expect from the sophisticated digital technology used today.
Once the HTLs are corrected for the hearing aid insertion effects, the hearing aid must be calibrated so that its gain response matches the gain targets. Real-ear measurements as a technique for objectively verifying the performance characteristics of a hearing aid are recommended as a best practice in hearing aid fittings (Valente, 2006). However, it is not widely used for reasons such as expense, time limitations, and the need for cumbersome equipment. As a result, about 60% of hearing professionals do not use real-ear measurements (Kirkwood, 2006). Differences in the acoustic characteristics of the ear canals are quite apparent and speak to the need for individual measures to add precision to the fitting rather than relying on average data. The target match will be inaccurate for the individual ear to the extent that the average RECD is different for the ear under test.
It is essential when achieving fitting success that the hearing aid prescription is verified. Without verification you do not know how the hearing aid is performing and therefore whether the patient is benefiting. I would estimate that at least 75% of private hearing centres still DO NOT verify their fittings, in comparison to 95% of NHS departments that DO verify their fittings. What this means is that ‘potentially’ most premium and advanced hearing aids fitted privately, ‘maybe’ under performing in comparison to more basic hearing aids fitted by the NHS. National hearing aid companies do not verify their fittings generally and often fit the aid to the manufacturers settings. When adjustments are made they are often made blindly without knowing the effect they have on output. The research indicates that verification is still needed to ensure (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21376007) prescription is met and that in situ measures are not enough on their own, a stand alone verification device provides the best option. I used to feel that in situ measurements, would sufficiently tailor hearing aid gain to accommodate different ear canal properties. I naively used to make that assumption based on the patients first fit satisfaction and acceptance, as patients who were fitted to REM targets were often less satisfied than patients who were fitted using in situ. After reviewing many of my fittings using real ear measurements I have found that some manufacturers match to target better than others, but that there is still room for improvement in 7 out of 10 patients. Using data obtained directly from your patient will ensure the most accurate initial fitting and will help deliver high patient satisfaction. Therefore, I feel that a combination of both will result in a more precise fitting that is more representative of the individual rather than average data. If a centre is doing neither then you should really consider whether you should use them.
If you feel that your hearing aid is not performing properly or that it is not programmed correctly, then contact us on 01494 765144.
What makes a good hearing assessment?
We are continually developing our assessment process, but we find that many patients have limited understanding as to what comprises a good hearing assessment. So we have put together this guide.
Firstly, there is a difference in the level of clinician you will see and this may impact on the depth of your assessment. You are able to be seen via the NHS or privately. To be seen in the NHS you need to be referred to the hospital by your G.P. Depending on where you go will depend on the level of clinician you will see. If you get tested by the hospital you will be assessed by a qualified audiologist, or a trainee audiologist. For most high street hearing centres you will see a hearing aid dispenser or hearing aid audiologist. The difference between a hearing aid audiologist/dispenser and audiologist is the difference between ophthalmologist and a dispensing optician. Your clinician should also be registered with the HCPC. Affliations to groups such as BSHAA, AHHP, BSA, BAA are not essential as membership to these organisations is voluntary.
Most high street hearing centres will offer FREE hearing tests, but remember no business operates for free! Ultimately they will try to sell to you. If you want impartial, no obligation advice then independent hearing centres that levy a small charge for their hearing test would be a better option and eliminates the pressure to buy. Hearing test prices range from £25 to £150, and in some centres the fee will be deducted from the cost of the hearing aids if you purchase them.
You should be asked questions about your current ear health and otological history in order to eliminate any referable conditions and establish likely contributing factors. Also about family history, lifestyle and physical considerations (such as dexterity) should be assessed.
You should have a visual inspection of the ear (otoscopy) which will look for infections, wax, outer and middle ear conditions.
The primary assessment, audiometry (tone testing), should be conducted in a sound proof booth in order to establish hearing thresholds, type and severity of hearing loss. The sounds (tones) will be different frequencies and will be loud and soft. There are two types of tone testing, air conduction (through headphones) and bone conduction (through pad placed at the rear of the ear). This will clarify whether you have problems in the middle, outer, or inner ear. Your responses will be registered via a hand-held button and stored electronically on an audiogram and this should be explained to you in detail.
If you have hearing loss it is often useful and important to have some speech testing done via calibrated speakers, if you are struggling to hear in noise then some form of speech testing is also useful when trying to work out what hearing aid would be most beneficial.
If you have a hearing loss, amplification should be demonstrated to you at the assessment. If you do not experience the hearing aid how do you know it will benefit you? So you should always ask for a demonstration or trial.
Should you need a hearing aid and purchase one, then you should choose an approved centre that you feel will give you the best service. Do not choose a centre based on price. If you are worried about the price but like the centre, then shop around for ‘like for like’ packages (exact hearing aid recommended not an alternative, warranty period, aftercare period, extras) to ensure the prices you get are accurate and fair. If you are dealing with a professional centre the pricing and hearing aid recommended should be clear and transparent. Hearing aids can then be fitted as quickly as 2 to 10 days from your hearing assessment.
If you would like to book a hearing assessment call Chalfont Hearing on 01494 765144.
Tinnitus can be managed! Tinnitus loudness perception can be reduced using Acoustic Neuromodulation
Tinnitus affects 1 in 10 people in the UK and can be caused by a host of conditions and can occur in people with normal hearing thresholds and people with hearing loss. Our sujects’ tinnitus was a high frequency sound which was louder some days than others, and was often worse in a quiet environment. After struggling for a long period of time with his tinnitus, he decided to take action. They was referred for treatment, where he was fitted with a device which uses Acoustic Neuromodulation. The treatment is delivered using a small palm size device which delivers low-level sounds to the ear via headphones. The device works by forcing auditory nerve cells sensitive to different frequencies to fire at a different rate and so disrupt the abnormal neuron firing that is associated with tinnitus. This particular type of sound therapy is extremely new in tinnitus treatment and management circles. At the Chalfont Hearing Centre, Bucks, we are also utilising this form of tinnitus management using our preferred device, the Soundcure Serenade. This device also uses amplitude modulated and pitch matched tones. The generated sounds are referred to as S-tones and are customised specifically for your unique tinnitus, which research suggests can reduce your perception of tinnitus. Such devices are not a tinintus cure or a tinnitus miracle but they have had significant results. Serenade is designed for short term relief of tinnitus symptoms and long term relief as part of a tinnitus management program here at Chalfont Hearing Centre near High Wycombe.
Advanced treatments like those provided at the Chalfont Hearing Centre are not available via the NHS, Currently this device costs £1750 and is only available through approved hearing and audiology centres. To book a tinnitus assessment or for more information on our tinnitus sound therapies please contact us on 01494 765144.
We are now supporting - Amersham & Chesham Hard of Hearing Club
When patients begin to tackle their hearing loss, I have found that many feel like they are the only person experiencing what they are going through. Most patients display very similar issues and concerns. However, there is not always positive and constructive advice available. That is why Chalfont Hearing are supporting the local Hard of Hearing Club. This organisation provides the opportunity to meet other people who are similarly affected and discuss new experiences. We promote a holistic and engaging approach to rehabilitation of hearing loss.
This Club has been in existence for over 30 years and is the only one of its kind now remaining in the Bucks, Berks, Herts and Oxon area. It is a friendly and caring club, supporting its members, who have widely differing degrees of hearing loss. During its yearly programme there are at least two evenings devoted to ” Hearing Matters,” while other speakers inform and entertain on a variety of topics. They welcome members from a wide area and try to publicise the benefits the Club has to offer by attending Open Days such as the event held by Chalfont Hearing Centre, whose welcome at the event was much appreciated.
This ” Cindarella of Disabilities” is at last beginning to reach a greater understanding by the general public, and support and advice is becoming more easily available. The Club aims to provide an informal and happy environment for older men and women for whom isolation and lack of communication would become a real problem.
They are always pleased to welcome enquiries and visitors.CONTACT: Kate Weber, 7 Webb Close, Chesham, Bucks, HP5 2JQ ( 01494-773359; Text Messages: 07757 639066)
Hearing Aid and Tinnitus Exhibition
Where do you go for the best advice on the latest hearing aid technology? and how do you know that you have looked into all of the options available? This is a problem that I have seen patients presented with year after year. Patients are confined to wear NHS hearing aids that are fitted on budget, private patients who visit high street hearing centres who are fitted hearing aids from the manufacturer that owns that chain, or fitted with older technology which is ‘on offer’. Commonly, options and choice of hearing aid technology and assistive devices are limited to what is offered by the Audiologist or dispenser. Fundamentally, for most hearing aid wearers this is the best and easiest format, but I now deal with younger patients who are more ‘tech savvy’ and more inquisitive than what I used to deal with previously. So we have organised the Hearing Aid and Tinnitus Exhibition to help inform those people about all the possible options available to them, without bias but also to give confidence in our service.
Hundreds of people descended upon the village hall in Little Chalfont, Amersham (2/10/13) for the day. The local and wider community were overwhelmed by the quality and substance of information delivered by a host of world leading hearing aid manufacturers and Audiological specialists.
Attendees benefitted from a host of FREE giveaways and hearing healthcare advice. There was an extremely positive and welcoming atmosphere, which was really nice. The day was constantly busy and many thanks are due to Unitron, Widex, Starkey, Soundcure tinnitus, PC Werth, Phonak for making the day a success. Special thanks is also due for the local hard of hearing club who also contributed their efforts. And lastly, the event organisation skills of Eleanor Cox who organised a fluid and successful day for everyone who attended.
For information on our next exhibition call 01494 765144.