Ask the Audiologists - Hampden Hearing Center

I use hands-free Bluetooth technology in my car to talk on the cell phone. Is that technology available in hearing aids?

May 1, 2017Ask the Audiologists

Bluetooth connectivity to hearing aids has been available for several years, but you needed a body-worn device called a Streamer to relay the sound from a cell phone or other audio device to the hearing aids. Now, hearing instruments have built-in wireless Bluetooth technology, so you may stream sound from your mobile phone or other […]

Does health insurance cover hearing aids?

April 1, 2017Ask the Audiologists

Some health insurance plans reimburse for all or a portion of the cost of medically-necessary hearing aids and services, with certain restrictions. Medicare does not cover any costs related to hearing aids. Some MassHealth plans pay for the devices, batteries and related professional services. You should call the telephone number on the back of your […]

My dog ate my hearing aid. What should I do?

March 1, 2017Ask the Audiologists

Unfortunately, dogs love to eat hearing aids! If, despite your efforts to keep your devices stored securely, your dog got a hold of one, collect all the pieces and notify your audiologist… and your veterinarian! Hearing aid manufacturers are sometimes able to repair devices that appear to be totally destroyed. If the aid is damaged […]

When I open the battery door on my hearing aid and the battery is exposed but not removed from the aid, is it still draining power from the battery?

February 1, 2017Ask the Audiologists

You are wise to open the battery door on your hearing aids when the aids are not in use. This will extend the life of the battery. However, the battery will, in fact, continue to drain, even when the hearing aid is not in your ear. The battery begins to discharge as soon as the […]

How do I know if my hearing is “bad enough” to do something?

January 1, 2017Ask the Audiologists

If you, or someone in your life, suspects you might have a hearing loss, it’s a good idea to have a hearing evaluation. Hearing loss often comes on gradually over several years, so the only way to know for sure is to measure your hearing. If it turns out that your hearing is within normal […]