Can Young Adults Experience Hearing Loss?
Though we often associate trouble hearing with getting older, the truth is that young adults can experience hearing loss as well. How Common Is Hearing Loss in Young Adults? Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that 12% of adults ages 18-39 report difficulty following a conversation in places with background…
Are Children with Hearing Loss More Likely to Experience Behavioral Difficulties?
It’s no secret that all children can have behavioral difficulties. But are children with hearing loss more prone to these types of behaviors? Research indicates they are. Below we review what the studies show, why the link, the signs of hearing loss and the available treatments. What Do the Studies Show? A 2017 study published…
What Is High-frequency Hearing Loss?
High-frequency hearing loss makes higher-pitched sounds harder to hear. While the condition can affect anyone, it is commonly seen in hearing loss related to aging and exposure to loud noise. Signs of High-frequency Hearing Loss When you have high-frequency hearing loss, you struggle to hear noises that are between 2,000-8,000 hertz (Hz). This can manifest…
Tips for Traveling with Hearing Loss
Are you gearing up for a summer trip somewhere soon? Traveling with hearing loss can pose some unique challenges. Thankfully, there are several tips to ensure that your trip goes more smoothly, whether you’re driving downstate to visit the grandchildren or heading to O’Hare International Airport to catch a flight for a tropical getaway. Ways…
Tips for Communicating with a Child with Hearing Loss
The CDC reports that roughly one to three of every 1,000 babies is born with hearing loss. If you have a child in your life who experiences hearing loss, the following tips can help improve your communication with them. Create a Good Listening Environment Create a good listening environment at home by adding carpets, curtains…
Do Your Hearing Aids Need Adjusting?
You want your hearing aids to provide you with the best listening experience possible, whether at work or dining with friends at Bluegrass. Unfortunately, your device will occasionally develop problems that require making an appointment with your audiologist to determine if adjustments need to be made. Your Hearing Aid Feels Uncomfortable If you are new…
How is Machine Learning Helping with Speech and Background Noise Differentiation?
Machine learning is a branch of artificial intelligence and computer science that focuses on the use of data and algorithms to imitate the way that humans learn. It can be used to help people with hearing loss by improving hearing aid algorithms to provide better speech recognition in louder environments. Hearing Loss Makes It Harder…
Study of the Cochlea Could Lead to Hearing Aid Improvements
It’s a common misconception that hearing aids compensate for hearing loss the way eyeglasses compensate for poor vision. Instead, hearing aids amplify sounds to a level the wearer can easily detect. Rather than putting in your hearing aids and hearing perfectly the way you can put on glasses and see with 20/20 vision, it takes…
What is The Connection Between Neuroplasticity and Hearing Loss Treatment?
Hearing loss doesn’t just make it difficult to understand sounds. Over time, it can actually change the structure and function of your brain. What is Neuroplasticity? Neuroplasticity refers to the brain’s ability to adapt by forming new neural connections throughout life. These connections can be in response to: Receiving new information Sensory stimulation Damage or…
How Are Animals Helping Scientists Improve Hearing Aids?
Next time you shiver when you see a spider at Heller Nature Center, take comfort in the fact that they may one day make your hearing aids stronger. Spider Silk for Hearing Aids? Studies have shown that spider silk may be an ideal material to create better directional microphones in hearing aids. This could improve…