Advanced Audiology can help detect hearing loss

By Patricia Nugent

While you’re gathering around the table with family and friends over the holidays, you may notice someone isn’t quite catching the conversation, keeps asking you to repeat things, or is missing the dialogue altogether and making off-topic comments.

“Since hearing loss is usually gradual—with the ability to detect certain sounds declining slowly day by day—people often don’t realize it has happened to them,” says Audiologist Dr. Danielle Hoenig of Advanced Audiology Concepts The Hearing Center in Mentor.

“If you notice someone behaving like this, I recommend a hearing test. With advancements in technology, there’s no reason for anyone to feel isolated due to hearing loss. We can help people join in the conversation and achieve the same quality of life, or very close to it.”

Age-related hearing loss can begin as early as your 40s, and that’s the age doctors recommend you get your first baseline hearing test.

“However, retired seniors who may not be in as challenging a listening environment as those in the workplace often fall prey to overcompensating for their loss, such as turning up the volume on their televisions, etc.,” she says.

“And studies show that brain activity falters in isolation. The earlier people detect and correct hearing loss, the better their overall health in the long run.”

At AAC, along with founder Dr. Jane Kukula, the staff wants every patient to attain the best hearing possible with a path that fits his or her lifestyle and budget. That’s why they’ve created payment options that unbundle the costs for aids and doctor’s appointments.

“We do our best to guide patients along their rehabilitative journey, offering them choices for what works best for them,” says Dr. Hoenig.

In the same vein, Dr. Hoenig reports she just fit Judy A. of Concord with a complimentary set of aids. She’s the winner of Advanced Audiology’s Annual Gift of Hearing Contest.

“Judy has had other hearing devices in the past,” says Dr. Hoenig. “But we were thrilled to replace her old devices with a new pair that were more appropriate for her hearing, and also easy to care for, rechargeable devices.”

Advanced Audiology Concepts is located at 8897 Mentor Avenue in Mentor. Initial audiograms to see how healthy your hearing is are covered by most insurances. Call 440-205-8848, or visit AAChear.org, for more information.