Help For You: A Guide to Better Hearing and Communication

This page is dedicated to providing you and your loved ones with the information you need to navigate the challenges of hearing loss and find the best path forward.

The Health Risks of Untreated Hearing Loss

Contrary to what some may believe, hearing loss is not a harmless part of aging. Research from leading institutions has revealed that leaving it untreated is associated with a number of significant health risks.

Dementia & Brain Health

The link between hearing loss and cognitive decline has received significant attention, and for good reason. When your hearing is compromised, your brain receives less stimulation. As Frank Lin, M.D., Ph.D., of Johns Hopkins states, “Brain scans show us that hearing loss may contribute to a faster rate of atrophy in the brain.” The constant strain of trying to hear can also divert cognitive resources, impacting memory and thinking.

Risk of Falls

Your sense of hearing plays a subtle but critical role in your balance. Your ears pick up spatial cues that help you navigate your environment safely. Hearing loss can mute these signals, and it forces your brain to work harder just to process sound. This subconscious multitasking can interfere with the mental processing needed to walk safely, increasing the risk of falls.

Loneliness & Depression

Difficulty communicating can naturally lead to social withdrawal. Studies from institutions like Johns Hopkins have shown a clear link between hearing loss and increased feelings of loneliness and depression. When you can no longer participate in conversations with ease, it’s common to feel isolated from friends, family, and the activities you love.

How to Become a More Assertive Communicator

Hearing loss can change the way you interact with others. Understanding your communication style is the first step toward taking control of your conversations and reconnecting with confidence.

The Passive Style: This often involves withdrawing from conversations or pretending to understand to avoid feeling embarrassed. While it may seem easier in the moment, this style can lead to isolation because your needs aren't being met.
The Aggressive Style: This style can involve dominating conversations to avoid the discomfort of not understanding, or blaming the speaker for communication difficulties. This approach can create tension in relationships.
The Assertive Style (The Goal): This is the ideal style, built on mutual respect. An assertive communicator takes responsibility for their hearing loss while confidently asking for what they need. This balanced approach empowers both you and your communication partner to succeed together.

Practical Strategies for Clearer Conversations

Here are some effective strategies you can use to hear better in any situation.

Be upfront about your hearing loss. This removes guesswork and lets others know how to help.
Politely guide your partner. Offer specific tips like, “I rely on lip-reading, so it helps if you face me and speak clearly.”
Don't be afraid to ask for what you need. It’s okay to ask someone to repeat themselves, rephrase, or slow down.
Acknowledge fatigue. Listening with hearing loss takes concentration. If you’re tired or distracted, it’s fine to postpone a conversation. Give yourself a break in a quiet space to recharge.

Confirm what you heard. If you're unsure, repeat back what you think was said. For example, "Did you say the meeting is at 10 AM on Tuesday?"
Ask for the topic. If you join a conversation late, simply ask, "What are we talking about?" to get the context you need.
Anticipate the conversation. Before a meeting, review the agenda. Before a party, review the names of guests. This gives your brain a head start.

Our Diagnostic Testing Technology

We use a variety of state-of-the-art, non-invasive tests to build a complete profile of your hearing. Depending on your needs, your evaluation may include:

Pure tone audiometry

Speech Audiometry

Tympanometry

Otoacoustic Emissions (OAEs)

Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR)

Choosing the Right Hearing Health Professional

There are three main types of providers who can help you on your hearing journey.

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Hearing Instrument Specialist (HIS)

In California, an HIS is licensed to test hearing in adults for the purpose of selecting, fitting, and dispensing hearing aids. They are specialists focused on hearing aid technology and patient care.

Audiologist

Audiologists hold a master's or, more commonly, a Doctor of Audiology (Au.D.) degree. They are licensed to perform comprehensive diagnostic testing of the auditory system for patients of all ages, from newborns to adults, and provide a full range of hearing and balance treatments.

Otolaryngologist (ENT)

An ENT is a medical doctor and surgeon who specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases of the ear, nose, and throat. While they typically treat medical conditions of the ear, they do not usually dispense hearing aids and often work in partnership with an audiologist.

Navigating Your Options for Hearing Aids

You have several choices when it comes to obtaining hearing aids. Understanding the differences is key to making the best decision for your needs.