The “All-You-Need-To-Know” Guide To Buying - Bloom ...

The “All-You-Need-To-Know” Guide To Buying

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Understanding how we hearThe effects of hearing lossCommon causes of hearing lossTinnitusEarwax (Cerumen)Cochlear implantsNHS or private?The hearing consultationHearing lossA simple self assessmentHearing aids: who and where to go to?Types of hearing aidsHearing aid technologyWireless technology

Hearing aid costClassic RangePlus RangeAdvanced RangePremium Range

Informative websitesBuying on the internetSummary of advice

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This guide, brought to you by the Hearing Information Service, will provide you with useful and fact filled information about hearing, hearing loss, and hearing aids in the UK. The guide will help you understand medical conditions associated with hearing loss and what you should do if you suspect you have any of these conditions.

We will make you familiar with the different types of hearing aids and the individual manufacturer’s models available today. For first-time buyers the number of makes and models on the market can be quite bewildering. Therefore we have featured just six of the main hearing aid manufacturers you are most likely to come across in the UK.

Other consumer guides may go into a lot more detail on precise specifications. We decided against this and have limited the information to what is necessary for initial comparison. We have a section on “jargon busting” to help you understand the technical terminology used by manufacturers and retailers.

One final word about price - there is no uniform price across all private company suppliers of hearing aids, as this is mainly because each company offers a different level of aftercare and service, for which some may apply a charge.

If you buy one of the brands featured, the quality of the product will be consistent, no matter who you go to, but the service levels differ between each supplier. You should consider this very carefully if you are tempted to source cheap offers on the internet.

The good news is conventional High Street suppliers – whether they are a national company or local independents – will display their qualifications. Hearing Aid Audiologists (also referred to as dispensers) are strictly controlled under the HCPC (Health & Care Professions Council).

We do hope you find this guide valuable, and if you have any queries about hearing loss or hearing aids then please call us on freephone 0800 488 0106

Welcome to your hearing guide

Contents

Everything you need to know about hearing loss and hearing aids

The “All-You-Need-To-Know” Guide to buying Hearing Aids2

Virtually no other condition in medicine can have such a profound effect on quality of life as even moderate hearing loss in some people. Hearing loss makes even routine communication difficult.

High frequency hearing loss often involves you losing the ability to hear consonants like s, f, t and z, even though vowels can be heard normally.

Consequently, this means thatpeople hear but cannot make out what is being said and accuse people of mumbling.

This may result in frustration, withdrawal from social activities, depression and marital discord. People lose the ability to take in sounds like bird songs, rustling of leaves and the voices of children.

In general, these infringements on the quality of life can be overcome through medical or surgical treatment, or with hearing aids.

When hearing loss occurs early in childhood, its devastating consequences are more obvious than when it occurs late in life. A hearing deficit in infants can interfere with psychological, emotional and speech development. It also makes learning a mammoth task and can cause frustration or isolation.

If you would like to discuss how hearing aids could help you, or a loved one, call us today on freephone 0800 488 0106.

The motion of the fluid in the inner ear excites the nerve hair cells in the organ of Corti, producing electrochemical impulses

These impulses are gathered together and transmitted by the auditory nerve to the brain, where we experience the sensation of hearing.

The vibrations are transmitted through the middle ear over the bony bridge formed by the malleus, incus and stapes. These vibrations, in turn, cause the membranes over the openings to the inner ear to vibrate, causing the fluid in the inner ear to be set in motion.

As the sound waves strike the eardrum, they cause it to vibrate.

The outer-ear “trumpet” collects these sound waves and they are funnelled down the external ear canal to the eardrum.

Sound creates vibrations in the air, similar to the rippling waves created when a stone is thrown into a pond.

Did you know?

The “All-You-Need-To-Know” Guide to buying Hearing Aids 3

Understanding how we hear

The effects of hearing loss

The smallest bones in the body are the malleus (hammer), incus (anvil) and stapes (stirrup)

The cochlea is encased in the body’s hardest bone

The “roar” you hear when you place a seashell next to your ear is the sound of blood surging through the veins in the ear, and not the ocean waves!

Pinna

Eardrum

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Cochlea

Auditory Nerve

Semicircular CanalsIncus

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External Auditory Canal

Eustachian Tube

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Common causes of hearing lossAgeing (presbycusis)As we grow older, some of our body parts don’t work as well as they did. The ear is no exception as the nerve cells in the inner ear fail to react or become damaged and we then acquire a hearing loss. Our degree of loss depends on our lifestyles, employment and medical history.

Ear wax (Cerumen)A common occurrence and removal of the wax removes the hearing loss. To find out more, see page 5.

IllnessEar, infections such as otitis media which affects the middle ear or otitis externa of the ear canal (also called “swimmer’s ear”) can contribute to

hearing loss if not treated in a timely manner. The ear may also be subject to benign tumour growth that blocks the ear canal and prevents a person from hearing clearly.

InjurySerious injury such as head trauma may contribute to a hearing loss if damage is caused to the ear.

Anyone who suspects hearing loss brought on by illness or injury, ageing or lifestyle should consult with a specialist to determine what steps can be taken to preserve hearing ability. This gift is too precious to lose.

NoiseConstant noise or sudden excessive sound like an explosion can attribute to a hearing loss over time.

Even with regular use of ear protection, now compulsory in work places where sounds are in excess of 80dB, a person may experience a certain level of loss if continuously exposed to noise.

Music concerts and personal music players are now seen as a potential cause of hearing loss.

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Excessive exposure to sounds over 85dB could cause hearing loss

Decibel (dB) Level

It’s estimated that up to two-thirds of young people may face permanent hearing loss if they continue to listen to their music too loud and for too long.

The World Health Organization has said listening to music through earphones for more than an hour at 85 decibels or above can damage your hearing.

But Action On Hearing Loss’ research has found that out of 100 MP3 users 72 were listening to volume levels of 85 decibels and higher. Their latest “Loud Music” campaign is targeted at 16-30 year olds and aims to

prevent people from damaging their hearing through over exposure to loud music through music players and at festivals, gigs and nightclubs.

By increasing awareness of the dangers of over exposure to loud music in a fun and relevant way, Action On Hearing Loss aims to make people more aware of the warning signs that could point to a hearing loss or tinnitus, such as ringing or dull hearing.

Visit www.actiononhearingloss.org.uk for more information

DID YOU KNOW?


Unlike other afflictions of the ear, tinnitus is not a disease but the perception of sound where there is no corresponding external source. While the precise cause of tinnitus is unknown, contributing factors include infection of the ear, wax build-up/foreign objects in the ear, medication side effects and the natural deterioration of hearing caused simply by the ageing process. The most common cause however is noise-induced hearing loss.

Tinnitus can affect anyone as it occurs across all age groups. It is estimated that about 10% of the population suffer continuously with a mild form of tinnitus and around 1% of adults find that it affects their quality of life.

What can be done to help tinnitus?Too often the answer is “I’m afraid there’s no cure and nothing can be done”. This is simply not true as there are a number of treatments that can help, including:

Cognitive Behavioural TherapyThis is used to retrain the way in which you think and so change your behaviour. If you have tinnitus then you may have certain ideas about it that make you distressed, but if these are incorrect then changing them may help to reduce your stress.

Tinnitus retraining therapy (TRT)TRT uses sound therapy and counselling to retrain the brain in how it responds to tinnitus so you become less aware of it.

Sound therapyTinnitus is most prominent during quiet periods (such as at night) so to “mask” this other sounds are introduced. Sometimes just the TV, radio or a “white noise” sound generator is enough. However some people find a hearing aid can be very effective, with some products having a sound generator built in.

To see if a hearing aid could help you, call us on Freephone 0800 488 0106 today.

Earwax (Cerumen) is a naturally produced substance found in the Ear Canal. The quantity produced varies greatly between individuals but hard wax is most common amongst the elderly and those who wear hearing aids.

For many people, earwax does not cause a problem to their daily lives, although it may need to be removed to take an impression of the ear canal for new hearing aid moulds.

Signs of excessive wax are:

• Loss of hearing over a few months

• Your own voice sounds as if it’s inside your head

• Tinnitus (buzzing/constant high pitched sound)

• Hearing aids whistle for no reason

TreatmentEar drops and products like Earol (shown below) are often considered to be the first line of treatment for excessive wax build up. If these do not work then the best and safest alternative is microsuction as, compared to traditional forms of wax removal, it is more effective and sometimes doesn’t require pre-treatment with ear drops.

A specialist will look into the ear canal using a microscope and a very fine suction device at low pressure is used to remove the wax.

You can have your ears cleared by microsuction by the NHS. Your GP will advise you whether this is available in your area. Alternatively you can have your ears treated privately.

We have access to a private clinic serviced by a fully qualified ENT Nurse Practioner.

For more information, call us today free on 0800 488 0106.

Tinnitus Earwax


Cochlear Implants

NHS or Private?If you feel that your hearing is not as good as it once was then you have two options available:

NHSFirst you need to see your GP. If they cannot diagnose the cause of your problem you’ll be referred to an Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) specialist, a hearing specialist (Hearing Aid Audiologist) or a clinic run by audiology staff at your GP surgery or a local health centre. Waiting times for this referral will vary depending on where you live, due to different levels of demand for the service.

If a hearing aid is required then they’ll recommend the most suitable for your hearing loss, although this is likely to be a BTE model (see page 10). An impression will be taken so an earmould can be made ready for the fitting.

At your next appointment (again times will vary) your hearing aid will be fitted and adjusted to suit your level of hearing loss, and you’ll be shown how to use and care for it. You will also be invited back for a follow-up appointment where they will assess your progress and give you further advice and support.

Hearing aids, earmoulds, batteries and repairs are free, although if you damage or lose them you may have to pay towards the cost of repairing or replacing.

PrivateA private appointment can be arranged at your home or at a practice with a Hearing Aid Audiologist which can be completed within a few days or, in some cases, on the same day. From this consultation they will be able to determine if a hearing aid is required, and if so what will be the best for you. It is quite likely that a range of fitting types will be available for you to choose from. In some cases the fitting and adjustment can be done on the same day, but generally a fitting appointment will be arranged around two weeks later.

On fitting the hearing aid is adjusted to your needs and you will be shown how to use and look after it.

Private hearing aids could also be provided with a lifetime of free aftercare.

Subsequent six-month and twelve-month follow-up appointments will be made to check that you are satisfied with the hearing aids and to carry out any required adjustments. These appointments can again be either at your home or at a practice and come completely free of charge.

We can arrange a FREE hearing consultation for you - just call Freephone 0800 488 0106.

What makes a cochlear implant?The implant is surgically placed under the skin behind the ear and includes:

a microphone to pick up sound and a processor which filters sound to prioritise speech

an electrode array (wound around the cochlea) to send the impulses to nerves in the scala tympani and then to the brain through the auditory nerve.

a receiver and stimulator (secured to bone under the skin) to convert the signals into electric impulses which are sent to the array by an internal cable.

a transmitter to send processed sound signals by electromagnetic induction to the internal section

Cochlear implants are surgically implanted electronic devices that help the profoundly deaf or severely hard of hearing pick up sounds including voices, music and environmental noises. Where hearing aids amplify sound, cochlear implants bypass the damaged portion of the ear and directly stimulate the auditory nerve.

Worldwide, 188,000 people have received an implant with the vast majority completed in developed countries due to the high cost of the device, surgery and ongoing rehabilitation support.

Who can have an implant?Many factors determine the degree of success of the device and its operation, and consultants determine implant candidacy on an individual basis, taking into account their hearing history.

A prime candidate is described as having:• severe/profound sensorineural hearing loss in both ears • a functioning auditory nerve• no benefit from even the most powerful hearing aids

Hearing better doesn’t stop with the operation as the patient must learn to understand sound and words. They also have to get used to different volumes of sound and how noisy the world actually is.

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High vs Low frequencyHigh-frequency loss (or Ski Slope) causes poor hearing in background noise, accusations of “mumbling” and the frustration of not hearing clearly. Low frequency loss (or reverse slope) creates problems such as sounds being muffled and the TV needing to be louder.Bilateral vs UnilateralBilateral means both ears are affected whereas Unilateral affects only one. If this is the case a person may have a problem not only hearing but also with the direction a sound came from.Symmetrical vs AsymmetricalSymmetrical means the degree and configuration of hearing loss are the same in each ear. Asymmetrical means the degree and/or configuration of hearing

loss is different for each ear again causing problems with directionality.Progressive vs Sudden Progressive hearing loss is where the loss becomes increasingly worse over time, whereas sudden hearing loss has an acute or rapid onset and therefore occurs quickly. In these cases medical attention is required immediately to determine its cause and treatment.Fluctuating vs StableSometimes a hearing loss changes by getting better or worse. Fluctuating hearing loss is typically a symptom of conductive hearing loss caused by ear infection and middle ear fluid, but is also present in other conditions such as Ménière’s disease.

Don’t be apprehensive about having a hearing consultation! It is a painless, straightforward procedure that allows a Hearing Aid Audiologist to quantify and qualify the degree, type and configuration of your hearing loss.

What happens in a hearing consultation?The Hearing Aid Audiologist will start by asking you questions such as “What difficulties have you noticed with your hearing?” and “When do you think this problem began?”.

They will look at the outer ear and, using an otoscope, examine the ear canal and ear drum. Then, wearing headphones, you will listen to a series of different tones at different levels, and be asked to indicate when they are heard by pushing a button. Information is then recorded on an audiogram, showing the level of sound you can hear at each frequency.

If the consultation suggests that hearing aids would be beneficial the Hearing Aid Audiologist would recommend the best device to suit your type of hearing loss.

How bad is my hearing?Hearing levels are expressed in decibels (dB) based on pure tone averages for frequencies of sound produced by an audiometer during the hearing consultation. Your hearing results will categorise the degree of loss you have as shown in the table opposite. Your Hearing Aid Audiologist will fully explain your results.

0-20dB NORMAL20-40dB MILD40-60dB MODERATE60-80dB SEVERE80dB + PROFOUND

This audiogram, above, is typical of somebody who may have been exposed to noise. The tell tale sign is the way in which the lines drop down significantly in the high frequencies and then

kick back up at the last measurement.

From your audiogram the Hearing Aid Audiologist will able to identify the type of hearing loss you have. There are four types of hearing loss:

Conductive hearing lossAbnormal conditions in the outer and/or middle ear can cause a temporary or permanent hearing loss. In some cases this might be due to a build up of ear wax, for which off the shelf treatments such as Earol can be a solution.Sensorineural hearing lossTypically a permanent hearing loss caused by damage to the cochlea’s hair cells (which detect sound and relay this information to your brain).Mixed hearing lossThis is a combination of the conductive and sensory components.Central auditory processing disorderThe brain has difficulty processing auditory signals that are heard.

Different forms of hearing lossHearing loss when measured can have different results and create different challenges for the sufferer.

The Hearing Consultation

Hearing loss


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Not sure if you need your hearing tested? Simply answer the following questions:

If you answered YES to any of the above then arrange your free hearing health check with a local HCPC Registered Hearing Aid Audiologist.Call us today on Freephone 0800 488 0106.

Emotionally:• feel stressed from straining to hear• feel annoyed at other people because you can’t hear or understand them• feel embarrassed to meet new people, or misunderstand what others are saying• feel nervous about trying to hear and understand • withdraw from social situations that you once enjoyed because of difficulty hearing

Medically:• have a family history of hearing loss• take medications that can harm the hearing system (ototoxic drugs)• exposed to very loud sounds over a long period or single exposure to an explosive noise

You should also arrange a free consultation if you suffer, or have suffered, with any of the following:

A simple self assessment


Do you...have a problem hearing over the telephone?

have trouble following the conversation when two or more people are talking at the same time?

find people complain that you have the TV volume too high?

have to strain to understand conversation?

have trouble hearing in noisy backgrounds, such as restaurants?

experience dizziness, pain, or ringing in your ears?

have to ask people to repeat themselves?

find that family members or co-workers remark about you missing what has been said?

find many people you talk to mumble or do not speak clearly?

misunderstand what was being said and respond inappropriately?

have trouble understanding the speech of women and children?

FACT! Six manufacturers dominate the british marketThere are more than 25 hearing aid manufacturers worldwide, but just 6 of them dominate the private industry here in the UK. They have all contributed heavily to advances in hearing aid technology and continue to find revolutionary ways to improve the quality of life for those with hearing loss through research and development.

ReSound is part of the GN ReSound Group who also own Danavox among other companies. With its headquarters in Denmark, GN ReSound has roots dating back to 1943 and is now represented in over 80 countries.

By focussing their research on real situations they were the first to develop a system that eliminates sound distortion in hearing aids.

In the UK, GN ReSound are based at Kirtlington in Oxfordshire.

www.gnresound.co.uk

Oticon is the second largest hearing aid manufacturer in the world and their UK base is in Hamilton, Scotland. Founded in Denmark in 1904 by Hans Dermant to help his wife’s hearing loss, Oticon now supply hearing aids to more than 100 countries.

As well as providing hearing solutions to British retailers their biggest customer in the UK is the NHS.

Oticon is also the parent company of Bernafon who are considered the low cost alternative to Oticon.

www.oticon.co.uk

Phonak was founded in Zurich, Switzerland in 1947, where it still has its headquarters.

Phonak is among the global leaders in the development of new hearing aids, as well as supplying hearing aids to more than 100 countries.

Phonak are also the parent company of Unitron. This allows them to have another route to market but under another banner.

Their UK factory is in Warrington.

www.phonak.co.uk

Founded in Germany, Siemens is a worldwide corporation with its UK base in Crawley, West Sussex. They supply hearing aids to retailers and, for over 30 years, the NHS.

Some national high street retailers sell rebranded Siemens hearing aids as their “own” product - making it difficult to compare products and prices elsewhere. You may also have to rely on them solely for service and repair – rather than enjoying the flexibility of choice to go elsewhere.

www.siemens.co.uk/hearing

One of the most innovative hearing aid manufacturers in the world, Widex is a family company founded in Denmark in 1956. With 50 years experience in research and development they are the world’s sixth largest hearing aid manufacturer, and supply almost 100 countries.

In June 2010 they opened a brand new manufacturing base in Chester to improve quality and support to UK distributors and consumers.

www.widex.co.uk

Starkey was founded in America over 40 years ago by their CEO William F. Austin.

Today they have over 22 facilities in 18 countries worldwide with their UK facilities located in Stockport.

In the early years they were the leaders in cosmetic In-The-Ear technology, and since the launch of digital hearing aids have made some innovative technological advances.

www.starkey.co.uk

FACT! Not all national retail companies are truly independentMany of the leading national retailers are financially backed by or have interests linking them to a particular manufacturer. This means that while they have a range of hearing aids from a variety of manufacturers, they could be more likely to offer you a hearing solution from their preferred supplier before any other.

However, Hearing Aid Audiologists are closely regulated by the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC), and are committed to providing a hearing instrument that will best suit your needs, no matter who makes it.

Hearing Aids: who and where to go to?



Completely In Canal (CIC)The CIC sits even further into the ear canal and is one of the smallest “in the ear” hearing aids available.

Invisible In Canal (IIC)Designed to fit as far into the ear canal as possible, the IIC offers the ultimate in discretion while still providing a high level of performance.

In The Ear (ITE)Custom made for each individual, an ITE (also referred to as a Full Shell) sits in the outer part of the ear

In The Canal (ITC)An ITC is similar to an ITE but smaller in size, and is also be referred to as a Half Shell.

Types of hearing aidsFACT! There are only three styles of hearing aidsAlthough manufacturers have created new names to describe the different types of hearing aid designs, there are really only three styles – Behind-The-Ear (BTE), In-The-Ear (ITE) and Spectacle aids.

With BTE hearing aids the main circuitry is encased in a shell that fits behind the ear. The amplified sound is sent through a clear plastic tube to the earmould which sits inside your ear. The shells on newer BTEs are much smaller so they fit almost invisibly behind the ear.

Similar to a BTE in design, but considerably smaller. By placing the receiver into the ear canal it not only creates one of the most discreet options available, but also creates one of most natural fitting hearing aids.

Behind-The-Ear (BTE)

Receiver In Canal (RIC)Receiver In The Ear (RITE)

In-The-Ear (ITE)

Spectacle aidsSpectacle aids are designed for people who have a predominantly conductive hearing loss or are unable to wear conventional hearing aids.

The workings are housed in the arms of the glasses and it transmits sounds to the cochlea by vibrations on the mastoid bone behind the ear. This then travels through the skull, missing the outer and middle ears and therefore bypassing the cause of the hearing loss.

ITE hearing aids have circuitry housed in a case that sits inside the ear. In most cases this is custom made to fit you perfectly and comfortably.

Where the hearing aid sits in your ear will depend on which model you choose as shown below.

Digital PinnaWhenever a hearing aid is placed behind or in the bowl of the ear, the natural sound enhancements and locating properties of the out ear (pinna) are lost. This technology uses very fast processors to accurately reproduce these effects giving unrivalled natural appreciation of where sounds are coming from and clarity.

Directional MicrophonesThese are perhaps one of the biggest advancements in hearing aid technology. Whereas an omnidirectional microphone will amplify all sounds from all directions equally, directional microphones will amplify the sounds in front of the wearer more than those from other directions. The advantage of this is when someone in front of you is talking, their voice will be amplified more than the surrounding noises - great when you are in a noisy environment like a restaurant!

Many hearing aids feature both types, as this will ensure you always hear what you need to no matter whether your surroundings are quiet or noisy.An additional development is adaptive directional microphones, whereby the hearing aid’s processor will maximise amplification in the direction of the speech signals, further enhancing your hearing ability.

Feedback ManagementWhenever amplified sound is directed back to a microphone feedback is possible, whether this is with the big amplifiers at an outside music event, or with hearing systems. It is now possible for hearing aids to have a number of processing options which can help prevent feedback without reducing sound quality, allowing for a more enjoyable hearing experience.

Relaxation and Tinnitus Management ProgramsThe CLEAR, MIND and MENU range of hearing aids offer a program that generates user adjustable, random, non-repeating harmonic tones that are designed to reduce stress and help manage the effects of tinnitus.

FACT! Technology used is the same but named differentlyThe aim of modern digital hearing aids is to mimic the way your ear processes sound, make what you hear as natural as possible and restore your hearing in a way that makes listening as easy as it was. They should also assess the situation you are in and enhance speech whilst blocking out background noise in any environment.

However comparing hearing aids can be difficult. And this is especially true when you find that different manufacturers have their own technology for a particular function but have called it something different. Take feedback reduction - Widex call their version “Automatic Feedback Management”, GN ReSound call it “Stabilizer®” and Oticon call theirs “Dynamic Feedback Cancellation”. What’s even more confusing is that some manufacturers will name each piece of technology individually, whereas others will just have one system that incorporates a variety of functions.

A Hearing Aid Audiologist will help you understand the features of each hearing aid and which ones best suit your lifestyle, but our table below lists some of the more common functions and what each manufacturer calls them.

Hearing aid function description Widex ReSound Oticon Phonak

Natural listening with good sound quality and an ability to locate where sounds are coming from

TruSound Surround Sound by ReSound™ Spatial Sound RealEar Sound

Reduces environmental noise whilst recognising and enhancing speech signals in all situations

Integrated Signal Processing

Environmental Optimizer™ RISE technology NoiseBlock

Processing

Restores high frequency sounds Audibility Extender™ SoundRecover

Directional microphones to improve sounds from a specific direction (Automatic or controlled)

Directional Microphones

Natural Directionality™, Autoscope Adaptive Directionality™

Multiband Adaptive Directionality, Front Focus

VoiceZoom, ZoomControl

Feedback (whistling) reduction Automatic Feedback Manager

Dual Stabilizer® II DFS with WhistleControl™

Dynamic Feedback Cancellation

WhistleBlock technology

Wind noise reduction WindRush Manager™Active Wind Stop™ WindBlock

Management

Reduces internal hearing aid noise and interference from mobile phones FreeSound System SoundRelax

For more information on all the latest technology or to arrange to speak to one of our fully qualified Hearing Aid Audiologists call us today on Freephone 0800 488 0106.

Hearing Aid Technology

Useful terminology


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Wireless TechnologyWhile wireless technology has been available for some time in the form of remote controls, recent developments in hearing aid technology can now enable wireless connectivity to a wide ranges of devices like TVs and mobile phones.

Manufacturer Wireless range

GN ReSound Unite

Oticon ConnectLine

Phonak ComPilot

Siemens Tek

Starkey SurfLink

Widex DEX

What’s in a name?All six hearing aid manufacturers produce wireless technology but to find out which product belongs to which company, check out the handy table below!

Widex’s range of DEX wireless assistive devices include (from left to right) the M-DEX, TV-DEX and RC-DEX.

Connecting to your PhoneHearing on the phone can be difficult sometimes, more so if you are out and about where there is lots of surrounding noise.

With wireless technology, a small remote control can take the sound from the bluetooth compatible phone and send it to the hearing aids. These controllers can also act as the microphone, making them ideal for use in a “handsfree” situation, such as when you are driving.

Like the TV wireless products, some controllers are available that switch off the hearing aid microphones so allowing you to hear better even if in a noisy environment, such as a pub or restaurant.

Some manufacturers also have wireless products that can help you hear better on a landline phone.

Connecting to your TVIf you are having difficulty in hearing the TV, especially if there is noise around you like people talking, then wireless technology can help you.

In most instances, a small box or streamer is attached to the TV and this sends the sound wirelessly either direct to the hearing aids or via a controller (which usually has the ability to control the volume too). Some products also have the ability to turn off the hearing aids’ microphones, which means you would only hear the sound streamed from the TV and not the sounds from around you.

These also work well with other audio sources, such as a stereo or personal music player.


Hearing Aid PricesBecause there is such a wide selection of hearing aids and companies it is impossible to list all of the prices. What we can do is give you an idea of what you might expect to pay and what you should get across different price brackets.

Ultimately, provided a hearing aid’s output is within your requirements then all hearing aids will help you hear better - however, some will deliver the sound better and manage unwanted sounds more effectively.

Our advice is think about your lifestyle - the more active you are, the more you’ll benefit from better technology. Your Hearing Aid Audiologist will help guide you through what could be a minefield in achieving better hearing at a price you can afford.

If you would like information on the very latest hearing aid technologies and prices then call us today FREE on 0800 488 0106.

from £399 to £3,099Classic

from £1,799 to £4,199Plus

from £2,299 to £5,099Advanced

from £2,899 to £6,699Premium

A basic digital hearing aid with varying levels of technology.Many companies offer two hearing aids for £499.

Expect up to eight bands of amplification and some form of feedback (whistling) control.If more power is needed then control of feedback becomes more important.

You will now start to find products featuring up to 15 bands of amplification, superior feedback control, faster acting sound management and directional microphones. You’ll also find more choice in the design and look of your hearing aids.

This brings you the latest, fastest acting and reacting technology, with multiple bands of amplification, Bluetooth connectivity, and superior feedback control to deliver the clearest and most natural sounding hearing aids available.Selection of styles, designs and cosmetics with additional features will be limitless.


COSELGIArmonia Basic BTE/BTE-P P 3 1-2 ¢ ¢ 21

Armonia Basic Mini P 3 2 2Armonia P P 3 1-2 ¢1 �1 1Armonia BTE/BTE-P P 3 1-2 ¢ ¢ 21

Armonia Mini P 3 2 2Melodia 3 P P 3 1 �1 21

Melodia 3 CMe 3-M Mini P 3 1 3Melodia 3 CMe 3-BTE P 3 2 � � 3

GN RESOUNDAlera 4 P P 7 1-2 �1 �1 9Alera 4 AL461-DRW Wireless P 7 1-2 ¢ � 11Alera 4 AL467/77/87-DW Wireless P 7 1-2 ¢ ¢ � 13Alera 4 Wireless P 7 1-2 � � � 9Sparx SP90-VI Linear/WDRC P 9 1-2 ¢ ¢ 5Vea 1 P P 4 1-3 ¢ ¢1 7Vea 1 VE170/80 P 4 1-3 ¢ ¢ 5

OTICONChili SP5 P 6 1-4 ¢ ¢ � ¢ 7Ino P P 4 1-41 �1 �1 4Ino P P 4 1-4 ¢ ¢ 7Ino Mini P 4 1-4 ¢ 7

PHONAKAudeo Q30 Q-10/312/312T P 8 2 ¢1 ¢1 �1 ¢1 14Baseo Q15 Q-M/P/SP P 4 4 ¢ ¢ ¢ 4Bolero Q30 Q-M13/312 Micro BTE P 8 2 ¢1 ¢ � ¢ 14Bolero Q30 Q-P/SP P 8 2 ¢ ¢ � ¢ 14Naida Q30 Q-RIC P 8 2 ¢ �2 � ¢ 14Naida Q30 Q-SP/UP P 8 2 ¢ ¢ � ¢ 14Tao Q15 P P 4 4 � � ¢ 6Virto Q30 P P 8 2 �1 �1 �1 ¢1 8

SIEMENSIntuis P P 4 3 �1 �1 3Intuis Dir/SP Dir P 4 3 ¢ ¢ 6Intuis Life P 4 3 6Intuis S Dir P 4 3 ¢ 6Life 101 P 6 3 � 6Lotus 23 P P 2 1 �1 ¢1 3Lotus 23 M/P/SP P 2 2 ¢ ¢ 3Lotus Pro P P 2 1-3 �1 �1 3Lotus Pro 2 M/SP P 2 1-3 ¢ ¢ 3Lotus Pro M/P/SP P 2 1-3 ¢ ¢ 3

CLASSIC RangeSimple to use and easy listening is what you receive from the Classic range. You will find hearing aids that provide you with a high level of hearing improvement but not at a high cost. Better hearing in the home, watching TV and conversing with friends is the least you can expect from these entry level hearing aids.

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SIEMENSMotion XCEL 101 XCEL P P 6 3 �1 �2 � ¢ 5Motion XCEL 101 XCEL SX/P P 6 3 ¢ ¢1 � ¢ 101

Pure XCEL 101 XCEL S/M/P/HP P 6 3 �2 �2 101

STARKEY3 Series 20 P P 4 1-4 �1 ¢1 43 Series i20 P P 4 1-4 �1 ¢1 � ¢ 43 Series 30 P P 6 1-4 �1 ¢1 43 Series i30 P P 6 1-4 �1 ¢1 � ¢ 4Ignite 20 P P 4 1-4 ¢1 �1 12Ignite 20 P P 4 1-4 ¢ � 12Ignite i20 P P 4 1-4 ¢1 �1 � ¢ 12Ignite i20 P P 4 1-4 ¢ � � ¢ 12Tour 20 P P 4 1-4 ¢ � 12Tour i20 P P 4 1-4 ¢ � � ¢ 12

WIDEXDREAM110 P P 3 1-2 �2 �2 � ¢ 3DREAM110 D-9 P 3 1-2 ¢ �2 � ¢ 6DREAM110 D-m CB P 3 1-2 �2 �2 � ¢ 6DREAM110 FASHION D-FA P 3 1-2 ¢ ¢ � ¢ 14DREAM110 FUSION D-FS P 3 1-2 ¢ �2 � ¢ 14DREAM110 PASSION D-PA P 3 1-2 �2 �2 � ¢ 14IIC3+ P 3 1-2 3MENU3+ P P 3 1-2 �1 �1 �1 ¢1 3MENU3+ ME-9 P 3 1-2 � � � ¢ 6MENU3+ ME-19 P 3 1-2 � � � ¢ 3MENU3+ ME-m P 3 1-2 �2 � 6PASSION105 PA-105 P 5 1 12REAL P P 3 1-31 ¢1 �1 1REAL RE-9 P 3 1-3 ¢ � 2REAL RE-19 P 3 1-3 ¢ � 2REAL RE-M P 3 1-3 2

¢ Standard 1 Not available on all fitting types� Optional Extra 2 Available through Remote Control

T Available through compatible touch-tone or mobile phones

ChannelsBy separating the sounds into different channels, your hearing aids adjust these to meet your hearing needs. The more channels available means a more finely adjusted output.

ProgramsListening to your TV at home is different to hearing in a noisy restaurant, so programs can be set up for individual situations.

TelecoilThis picks up the sound from loop systems (such as those found in

churches, theatres, banks, etc) and compatible telephones, allowing you to hear clearer in these situations.

Volume ControlMost hearing aids automatically adjust their volume, however you may prefer to have direct control over it. This can come in the form of a dial, switch or a remote control.

Remote ControlFor ease of use, these allow you to alter the volume, programs and other settings of your hearing aids.

Wireless ConnectivitySome hearing aids are now fitted with wireless technology so they can receive sound direct from a number of sources, including your TV, radio and phones. This means you can hear everything clearly and uninterrupted.

Colours AvailableBeside the standard skin and hair tones, hearing aids are now being made in a wide range of colours - whether you want them to blend in or stand out, there’s a colour for you.

Table information


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COSELGIArte P P 5 1-3 ¢1 �1 1Arte BTE/BTE-P P 5 1-3 ¢ ¢ 21

Arte Mini P 5 2 2Melodia 5 P P 5 1-3 �1 �2 � ¢ 21

Melodia 5 CMe 5-BTE P 5 1-3 � � � ¢ 3Melodia 5 CMe 5-M Mini P 5 1-3 �2 � ¢ 3Melodia 5 CMe 5-R P 5 1-3 �2 � ¢ 4

GNRESOUNDAlera 5 P P 9 1-2 �1 �1 9Alera 5 AL560-DR P 9 1-2 17Alera 5 AL561/62-DRW Wireless P 9 1-2 ¢1 ¢1 � ¢ 131

Alera 5 AL567/77/87-DRW Wireless P 9 1-2 ¢ ¢1 � ¢ 13Alera 5 Wireless P 9 1-2 � � � ¢ 9dot2 10 DT1060 P 9 1-4 15Lex 4 P 9 1Vea 2 P P 6 1-3 ¢ ¢1 7Vea 2 VE270/80 P 6 1-3 ¢ ¢ 5Verso 5 P P P 9 1-2 �1 �1 �1 ¢1 61

Verso 5 VO560-DR P 9 1 10Verso 5 VO561/62-DRW P 9 1-2 �1 �1 �1 ¢ 10Verso 5 VO567/77/88-DW P 9 1-2 ¢ ¢1 � ¢ 10

OTICONChili SP7 P 8 1-4 ¢ ¢ � ¢ 7Ino Pro P P 6 1-41 �1 �1 �1 ¢ 4Ino Pro P P 6 1-4 ¢ ¢ � ¢ 7Ino Pro Mini P 6 1-4 ¢ � ¢ 7Intiga 6 P 6 1-4 �2 � ¢ 10

PHONAKAudeo Q50 Q-10/312/312T P 12 3 ¢1 ¢1 �1 ¢1 14Bolero Q50 Q-M13/312 Micro BTE P 12 3 ¢1 ¢ � ¢ 14Bolero Q50 Q-P/SP P 12 3 ¢ ¢ � ¢ 14Naida Q50 Q-RIC P 12 3 ¢ �2 � ¢ 14Naida Q50 Q-SP/UP P 12 3 ¢ ¢ � ¢ 14Virto Q50 P P 12 3 �1 �1 �1 ¢1 8

SIEMENSAquaris micon 3mi P 24 6 �2 �2 � ¢ 5Life 301 P 8 5 �2 � � ¢ 6Life micon 3mi P 24 6 �2 � � ¢ 12Insio micon 3mi P P 24 6 �1 � � ¢ 5Motion micon 3mi SX/M/P/PX P 24 6 ¢ ¢1 � ¢ 13Motion XCEL 301 XCEL P P 8 5 �1 �2 � ¢ 5Motion XCEL 301 XCEL SX/P P 8 5 ¢ ¢1 � ¢ 101

PLUS RangePlus range hearing aids can be used by anybody looking for something to help them hear better in most situations but do not need to invest in the highest levels of technology. They will improve hearing in small groups, family gatherings and general everyday environments.


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SIEMENSNitro 301 P P 8 5 �1 �1 5Nitro 301 P 8 5 ¢ ¢ � ¢ 17Nitro micon 3mi P P 24 6 �1 � � ¢ 5Nitro micon 3mi P 24 6 ¢ ¢ � ¢ 6Pure micon 3mi S/M/P/HP P 24 6 ¢ � � ¢ 12Pure XCEL 301 XCEL S/M/P/HP P 8 5 �2 �2 � ¢ 101

Pure XCEL Carat 301 XCEL S/M/P/HP P 8 5 ¢ � � ¢ 10Sirion P P 12 4 �1 �1 5Sirion S P 12 4 6Sirion M P 12 4 ¢ � 6Sirion P P 12 4 ¢ ¢ 6

STARKEY3 Series 70 P P 8 1-4 �1 ¢1 43 Series 70 P P 8 1-4 ¢ � 123 Series i70 P P 8 1-4 �1 ¢1 � ¢ 43 Series i70 P P 8 1-4 ¢ � � ¢ 12Ignite 30 P P 6 1-4 ¢1 �1 12Ignite 30 P P 6 1-4 ¢ � 12Ignite i30 P P 6 1-4 ¢1 �1 � ¢ 12Ignite i30 P P 6 1-4 ¢ � � ¢ 12SoundLens 70 P 8 1 �T 1Tour 30 P P 6 1-4 ¢ � 12Tour i30 P P 6 1-4 ¢ � � ¢ 12Wi i70 P P 8 1-2 �1 �1 � ¢ 12Wi i70 P 8 1-2 ¢ � � ¢ 12X Series 70 P P 8 1-4 �1 �1T �T 6X Series 70 P P 8 1-4 ¢ ¢ 12Xino 70 RIC 10 P 8 1-4 ¢ � 12Xino i70 RIC 312/312 AP P 8 1-4 ¢ ¢ � ¢ 12

WIDEXCLEAR220 P P 5 1-3 ¢1 � � ¢ 1CLEAR220 C2-9 P 5 1-3 ¢ ¢ � ¢ 6CLEAR220 C2-m P 5 1-3 � � ¢ 6CLEAR220 FUSION C2-FS P 5 1-3 ¢ � � ¢ 14CLEAR220 PASSION C2-PA P 5 1-3 � � ¢ 14DREAM220 P P 5 1-3 �2 �2 � ¢ 3DREAM220 D-9 P 5 1-3 ¢ �2 � ¢ 6DREAM220 D-m CB P 5 1-3 �2 �2 � ¢ 6DREAM220 FASHION D-FA P 5 1-3 ¢ ¢ � ¢ 14DREAM220 FUSION D-FS P 5 1-3 ¢ �2 � ¢ 14DREAM220 PASSION D-PA P 5 1-3 �2 �2 � ¢ 14IIC5 P 5 1-2 3MENU5 P P 5 1-2 �1 �1 �1 ¢1 3MENU5 ME-9 P 5 1-2 � � � ¢ 6MENU5 ME-19 P 5 1-2 � � � ¢ 3MENU5 ME-m P 5 1-2 �2 � 6MIND220 P P 5 1-3 ¢1 �1 � 1MIND220 M2-9 P 5 1-3 ¢ � � 6MIND220 M2-19 P 5 1-3 ¢ � � 3MIND220 M2-m P 5 1-3 � 6PASSION110 PA-110 P 10 1-2 � � 12


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COSELGIMelodia 10 P P 10 1-4 �1 �2 � ¢ 21

Melodia 10 CMe 10-BTE P 10 1-4 � � � ¢ 3Melodia 10 CMe 10-M Mini P 10 1-4 �2 � ¢ 3Melodia 10 CMe 10-R P 10 1-4 �2 � ¢ 4Vivace P P 10 1-3 ¢1 �1 1Vivace BTE/BTE-P P 10 2 ¢ ¢ 21

Vivace Mini P 10 1-3 3

GN RESOUNDAlera 7 P P 17 1-3 �1 �1 9Alera 7 AL760-DR P 17 1-3 17Alera 7 AL761/62-DRW Wireless P 17 1-3 ¢1 ¢1 � ¢ 131

Alera 7 AL767/77/87-DRW Wireless P 17 1-3 ¢ ¢1 � ¢ 13Alera 7 Wireless P 17 1-3 � � � ¢ 9dot2 20 DT2060 P 17 1-4 15Vea 3 P P 7 1-4 ¢ ¢1 7Vea 3 VE360/70/80 P 7 1-4 ¢ ¢1 5Verso 7 P P P 17 1-3 �1 �1 �1 ¢1 61


OTICONChili SP9 P 9 1-4 ¢ ¢ � ¢ 7Intiga 8 P 8 1-4 �2 � ¢ 10Intiga i8 P 8 1 5Nera/Nera Pro P P 16 3 �1 �1 �1 �1 4Nera/Nera Pro P P 16 3 ¢ ¢ ¢ ¢ 7Nera/Nera Pro mini P P 16 3 ¢ ¢ ¢ 7


SIEMENSAce micon 5mi S/M/P/HP P 32 6 10Aquaris micon 5mi P 32 6 �2 �2 � ¢ 5Life 501 P 12 1-5 � � ¢ 16Life micon 5mi P 32 6 �2 � � ¢ 12Insio micon 5mi P P 32 6 �1 � � ¢ 5

ADVANCED RangeFor those looking for the finest of quality, the Advanced range will deliver speech intelligibility in the most challenging of situations. Designed for people whose lifestyle finds them entering into places where they find background noise makes it more difficult to communicate. Hearing in medium sized groups and concerts will become a problem of the past.


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SIEMENSMotion micon 5mi SX/M/P/PX P 32 6 ¢ ¢1 � ¢ 13Motion XCEL 501 XCEL P P 12 5 �1 �2 � ¢ 5Motion XCEL 501 XCEL SX/P P 12 5 ¢ ¢1 � ¢ 101

Orion P P 16 4 �1 �1 � 5Orion RIC P 16 4 ¢ � � 7Orion S P 16 4 � � 6Orion M P 16 4 ¢ � � 6Orion P/SP P 16 4 ¢ ¢ � 6Pure micon 5mi S/M/P/HP P 32 6 ¢ � � ¢ 12Pure XCEL 501 XCEL S/M/P/HP P 12 5 �2 �2 � ¢ 101

Pure XCEL Carat 501 XCEL S/M/P/HP P 12 5 ¢ � � ¢ 10

STARKEY3 Series 90 P P 12 1-4 �1 ¢1 43 Series 90 P P 12 1-4 ¢ � 123 Series i90 P P 12 1-4 �1 ¢1 � ¢ 43 Series i90 P P 12 1-4 ¢ � � ¢ 12SoundLens 90 P 12 1 �T 1Wi i90 P P 12 1-3 �1 �1 � ¢ 12Wi i90 P 12 1-3 ¢ � � ¢ 12X Series 90 P P 12 1-4 �1 �1T �T 6X Series 90 P P 12 1-4 ¢ ¢ 12Xino 90 RIC 10 P 12 1-4 ¢ � 12Xino i90 RIC 312/312 AP P 12 1-4 ¢ ¢ � ¢ 12

WIDEXCLEAR330 P P 10 1-4 ¢1 � � ¢ 1CLEAR330 C3-9 P 10 1-4 ¢ ¢ � ¢ 6CLEAR330 C3-m P 10 1-4 � � ¢ 6CLEAR330 FUSION C3-FS P 10 1-4 ¢ � � ¢ 14CLEAR330 PASSION C3-PA P 10 1-4 � � ¢ 14DREAM330 P P 10 1-4 �2 �2 � ¢ 3DREAM330 D-9 P 10 1-4 ¢ �2 � ¢ 6DREAM330 D-m CB P 10 1-4 �2 �2 � ¢ 6DREAM330 FASHION D-FA P 10 1-4 ¢ ¢ � ¢ 14DREAM330 FUSION D-FS P 10 1-4 ¢ �2 � ¢ 14DREAM330 PASSION D-PA P 10 1-4 �2 �2 � ¢ 14IIC10 P 10 1-2 3MENU10 P P 10 1-2 �1 �1 �1 ¢1 3MENU10 ME-9 P 10 1-2 � � � ¢ 6MENU10 ME-19 P 10 1-2 � � � ¢ 3MENU10 ME-m P 10 1-2 �2 � 6MIND330 P P 10 1-4 ¢1 �1 � 1MIND330 M3-9 P 10 1-4 ¢ � � 6MIND330 M3-19 P 10 1-4 ¢ � � 3MIND330 M3-m P 10 1-4 � 6PASSION115 PA-115 P 15 1-3 � � 12SUPER220 S2-VS P 5 1-3 ¢ ¢ � ¢ 7


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COSELGIMelodia 15 P P 15 1-5 �1 �2 � ¢ 21

Melodia 15 CMe 15-BTE P 15 1-5 � � � ¢ 3Melodia 15 CMe 15-M Mini P 15 1-5 �2 � ¢ 3Melodia 15 Cme 15-R P 15 1-5 �2 � ¢ 4

GN RESOUNDAlera 9 P P 17 1-4 �1 �1 9Alera 9 AL960-DR P 17 1-4 17Alera 9 AL961/62-DRW Wireless P 17 1-4 ¢1 ¢1 � ¢ 131

Alera 9 AL967/77/87-DRW Wireless P 17 1-4 ¢ ¢1 � ¢ 13Alera 9 Wireless P 17 1-4 � � � ¢ 9dot2 30 DT3060 P 17 1-4 15Lex 8 P 17 1Verso 9 P P P 17 1-4 �1 �1 �1 ¢1 61


OTICONAlta/Alta Pro P P 16 5 �1 �1 �1 �1 4Alta/Alta Pro P P 16 5 ¢ ¢ ¢ ¢ 7Alta/Alta Pro mini P P 16 5 ¢ ¢ ¢ 7Intiga 10 P 10 1-4 �2 � ¢ 10Intiga i10 P 10 1 5


SIEMENSAce micon 7mi S/M/P/HP P 48 6 10Aquaris micon 7mi P 48 6 �2 �2 � ¢ 5iMini 701 P 16 1 1Insio micon 7mi P P 48 6 �1 � � ¢ 5Life 701 P 16 1-5 � � ¢ 16Life micon 7mi P 48 6 �2 � � ¢ 12Motion micon 7mi SX/M/P/PX P 48 6 ¢ ¢1 � ¢ 13Motion XCEL 701 XCEL P P 16 5 �1 �2 � ¢ 5Motion XCEL 701 XCEL SX/P P 16 5 ¢ ¢1 101

PREMIUM RangeThe Premium range of hearing aids offer the ultimate in speech understanding for all environments and for those who want the highest levels of technology and demand the best that is available.You will find these hearing aids can enhance speech in the most difficult of situations, from large crowds and parties to restaurants and meetings.


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SIEMENSNitro 701 P P 16 5 �1 �1 5Nitro 701 P 16 5 ¢ ¢ � ¢ 17Nitro micon 7mi P 48 6 ¢ ¢ � ¢ 6Pure micon 7mi S/M/P/HP P 48 6 ¢ � � ¢ 12Pure XCEL Carat 701 XCEL S/M/P/HP P 16 5 ¢ � � ¢ 10Pure XCEL 701 XCEL S/M/P/HP P 16 5 �2 �2 � ¢ 101

STARKEY3 Series 110 P P 16 1-4 �1 ¢1 43 Series 110 P P 16 1-4 ¢ � 123 Series i110 P P 16 1-4 �1 ¢1 � ¢ 43 Series i110 P P 16 1-4 ¢ � � ¢ 12SoundLens 110 P 16 1 �T 1Wi i110 P 16 1-5 ¢ � � ¢ 12Wi i110 P P 16 1-5 �1 �1 � ¢ 12X Series 110 P P 16 1-4 �1 �1T �T 6X Series 110 P P 16 1-4 ¢ ¢ 12Xino 110 RIC 10 P 16 1-4 ¢ � 12Xino i110 RIC 312/312 AP P 16 1-4 ¢ ¢ � ¢ 12

WIDEXCLEAR440 P P 15 1-5 ¢1 � � ¢ 1CLEAR440 C4-9 P 15 1-5 ¢ ¢ � ¢ 6CLEAR440 C4-m P 15 1-5 � � ¢ 6CLEAR440 FUSION C4-FS P 15 1-5 ¢ � � ¢ 14CLEAR440 PASSION C4-PA P 15 1-5 � � ¢ 14DREAM440 P P 15 1-5 �2 �2 � ¢ 3DREAM440 D-9 P 15 1-5 ¢ �2 � ¢ 6DREAM440 D-m CB P 15 1-5 �2 �2 � ¢ 6DREAM440 FASHION D-FA P 15 1-5 ¢ ¢ � ¢ 14DREAM440 FUSION D-FS P 15 1-5 ¢ �2 � ¢ 14DREAM440 PASSION D-PA P 15 1-5 �2 �2 � ¢ 14MIND440 P P 15 1-5 ¢1 �1 � 1MIND440 M4-9 P 15 1-5 ¢ � � 6MIND440 M4-19 P 15 1-5 ¢ � � 3MIND440 M4-m P 15 1-5 � 9PASSION440 PA-440 P 15 1-5 � � 14SUPER440 S4-VS P 15 1-5 ¢ ¢ � ¢ 7


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The internet contains a wealth of information on hearing health and hearing aids. Sometimes though it’s hard to see the wood for the trees so that’s why we’ve highlighted what we feel are informative websites for all hearing related information. For links to the hearing aid manufacturers’ own websites please see page 9.

www.actiononhearingloss.org.ukFormerly known as the RNID, their name was changed in 2011 to Action On Hearing Loss to show that the charity deals with all levels of hearing loss, not just deafness.

Founded in 1911, they provide information and raise awareness of deafness, hearing loss and tinnitus. They have also emerged as a major player in technology and research development, in particular through its work in the area of product development.

Recent developments include a free confidential online hearing check which is also available over the telephone, and can identify potential hearing problems.

www.hearingtimes.co.ukThe Hearing Times website is for deaf and hard of hearing people, their relatives, friends, Hearing Aid Audiologists and professionals in the hearing industry. It is combined with a unique national publication providing the latest news and information on hearing loss and hearing aids.

www.hcpc-uk.orgThe Health & Care Professions Council is a regulator set up to protect the public. They keep a register of health professionals who meet their standards for training, professional skills, behaviour and health. Currently 15 health professions are regulated including Hearing Aid Audiologists.

www.menieres.org.ukThe Ménière’s Society was set up to provide information and advice for people suffering from Ménière’s disease, and they actively encourage and support research projects related to the cause and treatment of all aspects of Ménière’s disease.

www.tinnitus.org.ukThe BTA is another charitable organisation, which strives to be the primary source of support and information for people with tinnitus in the UK.

It aims to encourage prevention through its educational programme and to seek a cure for permanent head noise through a medical research programme.

Through a freephone line, website, and regular magazines it helps individuals with tinnitus and the wider public understand more about the condition, coping strategies and raising awareness amongst the general public.

Informative websites


Internet buying

The internet is great for researching hearing loss and hearing aids. And while purchasing hearing aid batteries, accessories, etc is no different to other online purchases, we would definitely not recommend buying hearing aids on the internet.

In a lot of cases, a full evaluation of your hearing is not carried out. This is very important as without it how do you know the right hearing aid for your needs is being supplied?

Of equal importance is the aftercare service provided. What happens when you need some adjustments made or a repair is needed? A lot of sites offer no level of service and minimal warranties which could be very costly and inconvenient when a problem arises.

It’s also very easy to look at prices online but are they telling you the full story? It’s all too common to find that the hearing aids you’ve seen are not available. You may also find that you are pointed to an alternative product which might not be as discounted as others.

For further information on buying online, and hearing aid companies in general, go to www.which.co.uk and read the Buyers Guide from their Report. Whilst we did not feature in this, we do subscribe to “best practice”.

Getting the best serviceWhoever you purchase hearing aids from, ensure they offer at least the following services:

• Free aftercare• Free hearing check-ups• Free re-programming to ensure optimum

performance from your hearing aids • A minimum of 4 years breakdown warranty• Free home visits if required• A battery postal policy• Professional registration with the HCPC

Summary of adviceThe aim of this guide is to provide you with advice and information about hearing and hearing aids in the UK. We trust any future decisions you have to make about your hearing, or of somebody you know, are made easier.

Finally, if you have questions about anything in this guide then call us today on freephone 0800 488 0106.

If you...

suspect a child has a hearing loss

would like to discuss cochlear implants

suffer with vertigo

have a sudden onset of tinnitus

would like an NHS hearing aid

Then we would advise that you seek initial advice from your GP

If you...

would like to discuss your hearing

would like to arrange a free hearing consultation

require information on microsuction

require information on UK manufacturers

would like to discuss buying a hearing aid

Then contact us today by calling FREEPHONE 0800 488 0106


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Hearing Information ServiceUnit 3 Eastern Wood Road, Plympton, Plymouth PL7 5ET

Freephone 0800 488 0106

Email: [email protected]

www.hearinginformationservice.co.uk

The “All-You-Need-To-Know” Guide To Buying - Bloom ...

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