1.  What are some of the symptoms of hearing loss?

2.  What are some listening and communication strategies that may be helpful when speaking to someone with a mild hearing loss?

3.  How can hearing aids help?

4.  In addition to hearing aids, what are some of the other devices to help a person who may be affected by hearing loss?

5.  What do hearing aids consist of?

6.  How many types of hearing aids are available on the market today?

7.  Does the government currently subsidize hearing aids?

8.  How can a person get a hearing aid and related services at Mount Sinai Hospital?

1. What are some of the symptoms of hearing loss?

Some symptoms include difficulty hearing in group situations, asking friends or family members to repeat themselves, turning up the volume of the television, and difficulty hearing on the telephone. Any of these symptoms could mean that a person may be experiencing hearing loss, and they should consult a doctor or audiologist.

2. What are some listening and communication strategies that may be helpful when speaking to someone with mild hearing loss?

It is helpful to get the person's attention first before you begin speaking.  Whenever possible, face the person directly and speak in a clear voice, annunciating your words.  Another strategy is to try using different words, rather than repeating the same words over and over, since some people have trouble deciphering a particular word or combination of words. If participating in a group conversation, another strategy is to alert a person with mild hearing loss of a change in topic to make it easier for them to follow the flow of conversation.

3. How can hearing aids help?

Hearing aids amplify sound making things easier to hear.  Most people with hearing loss can benefit from hearing aids, however some people have trouble hearing clearly, regardless of how much the volume is increased.  There are other devices and strategies available for people with poor clarity which may be more beneficial than just wearing hearing aids alone.

4. In addition to hearing aids, what are some of the other devices to help a person who may be affected by hearing loss?

Other devices include FM systems, amplified telephones, flashing lights to replace doorbells and telephone rings, vibrators that respond to sound, headphones for television sets, and guide dogs for the deaf.

5. What do hearing aids consist of?

A hearing aid consists of a tiny microphone to pick up sounds, an amplifier to increase their volume, and a tiny receiver to transmit sounds to the ear. Thanks to modern technology, hearing aids provide better sound quality and look better than ever before. Some hearing aids fit completely in the ear canal and are almost invisible.

6. How many types of hearing aids are available on the market today?

There are hundreds of hearing aids currently available and Mount Sinai’s Hearing Aid Dispensary sells and services all brands.

7. Does the government currently subsidize hearing aids?

Yes, the current available funding through the government’s Assistive Devices Program covers the first $500 for each ear every three years.

8. How can a person get a hearing aid and related services at Mount Sinai Hospital?

A hearing aid prescription is needed for a new hearing aid. Only an audiologist or a physician can prescribe a hearing aid, and they usually require a hearing test. To obtain a hearing test at Mount Sinai a physician referral is needed. Please click here for a copy of our referral form. The Hearing Aid Dispensary offers repairs, supplies and batteries.

For more information, please contact us at 416-586-5018