Sometimes it begins by asking a simple question: “I’m sorry, can you repeat that again?”
You might find that a loud restaurant makes simple conversations unclear, or maybe you are repeatedly reminded to use your “indoor voice” in a small area or intimate setting. Age, exposure to loud noises over time and genetics are all factors that can contribute to hearing loss.
The inevitability of hearing loss is something many people experience. One in three people between the ages of 65 and 74 report experiencing some level of hearing concern. That statistic jumps to 50 percent for people over age 75. Luckily, all hope is not lost.
Hearing aids were once thought to be invasive, distracting, and oftentimes inadequate solutions to hearing problems. Recent advancements in technology have allowed them to become more comfortable and more effective. The improvements don’t end there. Bluetooth pairing technology allows users to directly stream audio to their hearing aids from TVs, laptops, tablets and mobile devices. This makes tasks like answering phone calls and listening to music clear and effortless.
Many companies have also developed their own mobile apps that coordinate with their hearing devices to help track users’ health – opening new doors for personal medical interactivity. Apps like Thrive and Livio AI track users’ social and physical health, generating a custom wellness score that can be monitored over time. Certain apps even have emergency detection services that alert contacts if they find that a user has fallen. Many providers have plans to include a include heartrate monitoring in future products to detect even more potential medical emergencies.
Despite these improvements, it is estimated that only 20 percent of those who could benefit from a hearing aid actually get one due to the stigma associated with having one, or their perception of cost.
The doctors of audiology at Florida E.N.T. & Allergy are experts in finding solutions for hearing loss and applying those solutions to your daily life. They provide unparalleled support and care throughout your hearing journey.
As hearing aid technology advances, people with hearing loss can experience all the wonderful sounds in their environment in a more natural, comfortable manner. Don’t delay – find out if hearing aids could help improve your daily life in more ways than one!
The physicians of Florida E.N.T. & Allergy have served the Tampa Bay community for over 40 years. Our board certified physicians and doctors of audiology have completed extensive education and clinical training as well as specialized training in their area(s) of expertise. From pediatric allergies to fitting hearing aids, our caring and experienced providers specialize in ear, nose and throat care for the entire family using comprehensive, cutting edge technologies.
For additional information or to schedule an appointment, please call 813-879-8045 or visit
Florida E.N.T. & Allergy online at www.FloridaENTandAllergy.com.