Hearing Aid Information

Free Phone Program for those with Hearing Loss

For those of you who fall under this program, this is great! If you qualify, you need to follow some simple instructions using the Caption Call website. Here is how:

www.captioncall.com/CaptionCall/Products/Free-Demo.aspx

Just fill in the form and enter the promo code.  This will get you into the system so that someone can contact you to set up an installation time.

The promo code is:  HS 3066

If you or someone in your home would like to actually call Caption Call to get questions answered, here’s their toll free number:  1-877-557-2227  The Reps that answer the phone call from you can also place the order for the phone as long as you have the promo code (above).

This is only for US residents. See the Free Phone Program via the FCC article for more information.

David Smith, Volleyball Olympian, Competes With Hearing Loss‎

David Smith is an inspiration to all of us here at Still No Sound. He has hearing loss is in the 80-90 percent range. If you you want to read more about this Olympic athlete and he primarily uses lip reading, take a look at this great David Smith article.

Behind The Ear Hearing Aids

Behind The Ear Hearing Aids

So here’s a great behind the ear hearing aid which is available from lots of retailers online. It’s the MDHearingAid Acoustitone PRO Hearing Aid.

Our impression is that this hearing aid is great for lots of different types of users. Some of our thoughts on this:

- Great for those who are deaf in one ear
- Better than an Opticon
- Battery performance is excellent
- Better built than hearing aids that cost close to $1000

So our verdict: Don’t spend thousands on ‘top of the line’ aids, get an Acoustitone!

More info at: www.mdhearingaid.com

Songbird Flexfit Review

So, it’s been a little while since I’ve talked about the songbird flexfit disposable series. A friend of mine was asking what I thought and I felt I should post of my feelings.  So, I think these things are great! First, it’s not just about boosting high frequency.It’s got fabulous volume too! Also, for those who like a low profile, the flexfit is practically invisible. That’s pretty impressive as it is an over-the-ear hearing aid.  Some have commented about battery life, but I’m happy with that I must say!

Go to www.trysongbird.com for information!

Songbird Ultra Reviews and Information – buy the Ultra at www.trysongbird.com

So the Songbird Ultra has had a lot written about it and for those who read this blog, you know we have been covering every Songbird product out there from the FlexFit to the disposable. So we have taken a look at the Ultra which retails for $299.50 and this is what we think:

1. Wearing them everyday recently, I hardly knew it was there
2. Great in meetings with lots of people
3. Very comfortable fit
4. More expensive than other models, but more tailored to individual needs
5. A con: you have to open the battery compartment to turn the aid off and I really don’t like this!

Hope this helps in your decision process! Leave me a comment if it did or didn’t!

Flexfit® Disposable Hearing Aid Available and in-stock at www.trysongbird.com

The Flexfit disposable by Songbird is an interesting hearing aid as it is disposed after a period of use. We were skeptical of this product originally, but its energizer powered system has led to some interesting results. Apparently, it lasts about 400 hours and that’s good for 2-6 months depending on use.

Its features and benefits include that 1) Can be used in left or right ear, 2) No batteries to replace and 3) No maintenance required

So for $99, we think it’s worth a try!

baha hearing aid – The Cochlear Baha 3 Sound Processor

We have been reading a lot about baha hearing aids and a lot of folks say that the minor surgical procedure is well worth the amazing results of the The Cochlear™ Baha® 3 Sound Processor. Have you had any positive or negative experiences (including bone anchored hearing aid complications) of a baha hearing aids, cochlear bone anchored solutions, and cochlear baha bp100. Post your experiences here.

Cochlear Implant Candidacy : Who Is a Candidate?

Cochlear Implant Candidacy : Who Is a Candidate?

We are always looking for information regarding Cochlear Implant Candidacy and we came across an excellent resource at the National Deaf Education Center at Gallaudet University. We highly recommend it. These are general Cochlear Implant Candidacy requirements for children from their website:

• In 2002, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) lowered the recommended age requirement to 12 months of age. While this is the FDA-recommended age, this age is not legally binding and some hospital centers are completing the procedure earlier based on expectations of improved outcomes for early implantation. In addition, specific circumstances may allow for earlier implantation. For example, if meningitis is the cause of hearing loss, it may be important for the child to be implanted as early as possible as this condition causes ossification (bone build up) in the cochlea, making it increasingly difficult to surgically insert the electrode array as time passes. Note: There may be questions related to insurance payment for the procedure if it is completed prior to 12 months of age.
• The FDA states that a child should have a bilateral (both ears), profound sensorineural hearing loss; however, increasing numbers of children with hearing loss in the severe range are being considered for cochlear implants.

• Negligible functional benefit (limited open-set speech recognition) from appropriate amplification is often mentioned as a criterion. When such measures cannot be obtained on young children, hospital centers make individual decisions regarding whether or not a child would be able to do well on such tests given documented hearing levels and traditional hearing aids. There are varied implant center requirements regarding the use of traditional hearing aids prior to implantation. Some centers waive an extended hearing aid trial requirement in the interest of time when it is clear that the child would perform better with a cochlear implant.

• A child who is failing to progress in speech, language, and listening development with traditional hearing aids based on parent reports and educational information, may be considered as a candidate.

• Family willingness to follow recommendations; enroll in speech, language, and listening therapy; and return for follow-up appointments are factors in candidacy.

• Having no medical contraindications to electrode insertion or receiver placement is a factor in candidacy.

• Educational and home environments that are supportive of cochlear implants are factors in candidacy.

Buying New Hearing Aids – Top 10 List for Hearing Aid Buyers

We always are on the look out for hearing aid guides and this one from the National Council for Better Hearing gives great tips for buying new hearing aids. We have copied and pasted some important parts of their review below (All content was written by the National Council for Better Hearing and not stillnosound.com):

“Buying new hearing aids is an important decision with the potential to greatly enhance your quality of life. Keep in mind these important considerations as you compare hearing aids types and styles, and find the best solution for your hearing problem. Hearing-Aid.com and the National Council for Better Hearing offer this top 10 list of tips for anyone planning to buy new hearing aids.
1. Choose a qualified hearing professional – Several types of hearing professionals including audiologists; hearing aid specialists; and ear, nose and throat (ENT) doctors can provide information about, and help with hearing aids. Hearing professionals with strong qualifications such as appropriate education, license or certification, experience and a good reputation in the community are generally a wise choice.
2. Research hearing aids types– Learn about hearing aids types and hearing technology to gain a basic understanding of the many choices available.
3. Undergo a hearing test and complete hearing evaluation – A comprehensive hearing test and evaluation is the first step toward identifying hearing loss and finding the right hearing aid for a specific hearing problem. An online hearing test is a good way to get started, but it is essential to visit a hearing professional for a comprehensive hearing evaluation.
4. Honestly identify hearing needs – Some hearing aids are well suited for noisy situations; others are not. Some hearing aids types are perfect for an active lifestyle, while others are better suited for quiet activities such as watching television or listening to music. Features, controls – even color – may be important factors to consider when choosing a hearing aid.
5. Understand hearing aids prices – Hearing aids are a major purchase and as such, the buyer should receive a written contract which includes the cost of the hearing aids, as well as any services provided by the hearing professional. These services may include fitting, training and follow up appointments. Insurance coverage and financing may also be available to help make hearing aids affordable.
6. Get a comfortable fit – Custom earmolds ensure the best fit when purchasing new hearing aids. New hearing aids require a period of adjustment, and any level of discomfort could make the transition difficult.
7. Follow up – Adjusting to new hearing aids takes time as the brain learns to hear again in a new way. Follow up appointments with a hearing aid specialist are imperative to get the most out of new hearing aids.
8. Ask about the return policy – Most hearing professionals will offer a trial period for new hearing aids. Some may charge a fee if the hearing aids are returned; others may offer the opportunity to try a different hearing aid style.
9. Understand the warranty – As with any major purchase, hearing aids may come with a warranty to cover repairs or replacement. An extended warranty may be available to protect in the event of loss or damage to hearing aids after the initial warranty has expired.
10. Consider using hearing aids with other assistive listening devices – Many hearing aids are designed to work well with phones and audio equipment. New wireless hearing aids may be the ultimate in convenience for the hard of hearing. A hearing professional can answer questions about the compatibility of hearing aids with assistive listening devices.
For more information on hearing loss and hearing aids, visit Hearing-Aid.com, sponsored by the National Council for Better Hearing.”

www.trysongbird.com now offering a 45 day free trial on songbird Flexfit hearing aids

We keep a close eye on songbird offers and there very popular 30 day trial has been extended to 45 days. Wow! Visit www.trysongbird.com to take advantage of this.

From Songbird’s site:

“We want you to get the most out of your hearing solution.  That’s why we’re extending the 30 Day Trial to 45 Days!  You’ll have an extra 15 days to try the Flexfit for the same trial price of $14.95.  And remember, we’re here to help should you need assistance during this acclimation period.  Contact us anytime at 1-800-789-1830.

The Songbird Flexfit represents the best way to try a high quality hearing solution for under $200. Designed to be the ultimate in performance and convenience, its innovative technology enables a standard 312 hearing aid battery to last up to twice as long than with traditional aids.

The Songbird Flexfit also features a unique modular design, enabling easy battery replacement and flexible maintenance options, allowing you to replace the Earpiece at your convenience. Combined with its innovative technology and crystal-clear digital sound, the Songbird Flexfit allows users to experience the benefits of better hearing conveniently and affordably.

What’s Included

• 1 Songbird Flexfit hearing aid
• Case & cleaning brush
• 2 replacement batteries
• User Guide

• Technical Information Sheet
• Optional foam rings