Posted by: Jeffrey Martin, PhD, CCC/A – Interim Head of Audiology – UT Dallas Callier Center for Communication Disorders

Rapid advances in technology have led to impressive new tools for helping people overcome hearing challenges. Newly developed digital devices are smaller, lighter and more effective.

If you suspect you may have a hearing deficit, consult a physician or an audiology clinic. A few simple, painless tests could determine whether you need a hearing aid or other treatment. In some cases, hearing aids are not the appropriate solution to concerns about hearing problems but rather effective counseling or other assistive listening technology may be more appropriate.

Many patients find the new generation of hearing devices much more effective in environments with a lot of background noise – a common issue in the past. So if you decide to start wearing a hearing aid, be sure to choose a highly trained provider. To make the most of the technology, you need to be fitted by someone who not only understands the “bells and whistles” of the hearing aid but also is trained to handle the complexities of hearing loss.

Callier offers a wide variety of state-of-the-art devices from such companies as Phonak, Oticon, Widex and others. There are many choices offered to today’s patients. If you don’t hear as well as you once did, don’t hesitate any longer. Learn more about the new ways to hear better.