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A Brief History of Service Dogs

Animals generally and dogs specifically have been used by humans to complete specific tasks for tens of thousands of years. Throughout ancient human history dogs have helped hunters track down and catch prey, to tracking down wounded soldiers during wartimes. There are some ancient mentions of dogs acting as helpers for those with disabilities, such as ruins found in an Ancient Roman city which depict a dog assisting a blind man.In more recent history, seeing-eye dogs became increasingly popular service animals in the late 1920s in the United States. It wasn’t until the 1960s when people began to use the help of service animals for disabilities other than blindness, such as hearing loss (https://assistancedogs.wordpress.com/2013/08/06/the-history-of-the-service-dog-part-ii-celebrating-international-assistance-dog-week/).Today, service dogs help thousands of people with disabilities such as hearing loss, post-traumatic stress disorder and autism to live a happy, healthy and independent life.

State Senator Believes There is Service Dog Fraud in Arizona

An Arizona politician out of Fountain Hills believes there is a growing issue in Phoenix regarding service animals. John Kavanagh is a Republican member of the Arizona Senate, who represents district 23. Kavanagh supposes that dog owners in Arizona are abusing the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) service animal laws, by bringing their typical pet dogs into businesses and public places acting as service animals. Kavanagh says of the issue, “people complain all the time… I see it everywhere… everyone sees it, and its getting out of control”.To combat the problem, Kavanagh has set forth a proposal that would allow a judge to impose a fine of up to $250 for anyone who fraudulently represents an animal as a service animal in a public place.In Kavanagh’s proposal, a business that is under the impression someone is fraudulently representing an animal as a service animal can file a complaint and have the issue heard by the court. In the courtroom, the individual would be expected to provide written proof that the animal had been trained to complete a specific task that is covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act. If not, the person could be subject to the fine (http://azdailysun.com/news/local/senator-seeks-law-to-deal-with-fraudulent-service-animals/article_e84a161a-c6bf-59a0-b1e0-ddee92cd3f98.html).Under the proposal, business owners would not be allowed to refuse service or entrance on the premises if an owner is not able to produce this written proof “on the spot.”

Arizona Center for Disability Law Attorneys Disagree

Sarah Kadar, an attorney with the Arizona Center for Disability Law does not agree with Senator Kavanagh’s assertions. She says of the issue, "I think Kavanagh and others who are putting these (laws) forward are making a big deal like there's thousands of people out there with these fraudulent service animals” (http://azdailysun.com/news/local/senator-seeks-law-to-deal-with-fraudulent-service-animals/article_e84a161a-c6bf-59a0-b1e0-ddee92cd3f98.html). Kadar believes that there is no (or a very minimal) issue with Arizonians misrepresenting their animals as service animals in public spaces. She believes that this proposal, if passed, will disproportionately punish people with disabilities for the actions of a very few.Kadar also finds major flaw with the proposal itself. For example, in Kavanagh’s plan, individuals will be required to show specific written proof that their animal has been trained for a specific job outlined by ADA. Kadar points out that there is absolutely no mandate under ADA for service dogs to be formally trained. Because of this, people who have self-trained their service animals for ADA approved tasks will be subject to fines under the proposal. The proposal also heeds the question, what will happen to those who are unable to provide proof of training for their animals?Kadar also reminds readers that all business owners have the right to ask two permitted questions that can weed out any potentially fraudulent animals. "Most people aren't going to lie and make up a disability and make up what their animal is trained to do in response”, Kadar says (http://azdailysun.com/news/local/senator-seeks-law-to-deal-with-fraudulent-service-animals/article_e84a161a-c6bf-59a0-b1e0-ddee92cd3f98.html).

Service Animal Services for Hearing Loss in Arizona

A quick Google search will unveil a vast array of companies and non-profits specializing in training service dogs for individuals who are deaf or have a hearing loss. If you or someone you love would benefit from the assistance of a service animal for their hearing loss, here are some helpful resources to get you started: http://savvycanines.org/hearing-dog/

‍If you believe you have a hearing loss, contact us at Arizona Balance and Hearing Aids today. We provide comprehensive hearing tests and hearing aid fittings.

It’s a new year – a great time to start afresh. Many Americans make resolutions in the new year, with a high concentration of them revolving around improving one’s health. At Arizona Balance and Hearing Aids, we think it’s important to include hearing health in that list of resolutions. For those of us who use hearing aids to treat hearing loss, the new year is a good time to check in with our devices to see if they’re still functioning optimally. Most hearing aids have a shelf life of five to seven years, so if your devices fit in that timeframe, it’s also a good time to consider an upgrade!

Exciting New Hearing Aid Technology

Both last year in 2017 and this year in 2018, there are exciting new developments in hearing aid technology. Most major hearing aid manufacturers released updated versions of their Made for iPhone hearing aids, which provide wireless connectivity to your smartphones (Androids too!).Oticon introduced the OPN hearing aid, which provides wearers with an “open sound solution.” Rather than focusing on a narrow cone of sound, wearers experience a wider picture of sound, encouraging the brain to choose where to focus. For folks who have fitness goals for 2018, the OPN comes with a fitness tracking app that also functions as a way to monitor your hearing health.Rechargeable hearing aids are another important development in the industry, answering a call from consumers for a more sustainable hearing aid option. Rechargeable hearing aids from Phonak (the Audeo B-R), Widex (Beyond) and Signia (the Cellion primax) are simple and easy to use – and they do not require a battery replacement for the life of the hearing aid. This eliminates the need to constantly purchase and change out your batteries, saving both the environment and your money! Pop these hearing aids into their recharging stations overnight and wake up to fully charged aids for a day of listening.

Lifestyle Changes: New Work, Activities, Sports, and Hobbies

Have you decided to pick up white-water rafting in 2018? Are you more physically active than before? Have you gotten a new job that requires new elements in your listening experience? Hearing aid construction and technology has advanced in an incredible way, with moisture and dust resistance thanks to nanocoated materials. To protect your hearing aids from sweat, dirt, and the elements, consider upgrading to a pair of hearing aids with a high IP rating.There is such a diverse selection of hearing aid models and styles out there that if you have one in mind that might better meet your lifestyle needs, we’ll work with you to find a pair that’s just right.

Your Hearing Aids No Longer Function Properly

Hearing aids are remarkable devices: for their tiny size, they are powerful and work all day. Once you’ve incorporated them into your life, they almost become unnoticeable because they work so seamlessly and naturally. When they do malfunction, it will be obvious in your listening experience. If you’ve noticed lots of whistling or feedback, or if the functions no longer work as well as they once did, bring your hearing aids in for repairs at Arizona Balance and Hearing Aids. Our team will take a look and make the repairs necessary. If your hearing aids have reached the end of their shelf life, then it’s time to consider a new pair.

Changes in Your Hearing Abilities

Our hearing abilities are always changing, which is why it’s important to take annual hearing tests – even if you do use hearing aids to treat your hearing loss. Most hearing aids are designed to accommodate a wide range of degrees of hearing loss. If your hearing abilities have changed beyond the accommodations of your current hearing aids, then an upgrade is necessary to treat your current hearing abilities. It’s important to have the proper prescription with your hearing aids, to ensure your best hearing health.

Visit Us at Arizona Balance & Hearing Aids

If you are interested in upgrading to a new pair of hearing aids, contact us at Arizona Balance and Hearing Aids. Our team will walk you through the many options we have.If you believe your hearing abilities have changed, it’s important to schedule a hearing test. An annual hearing test gives you the information you need about your hearing abilities to ensure that you’re hearing at your best. At Arizona Balance and Hearing Aids, we provide comprehensive hearing exams and hearing aid fittings. To schedule an appointment, contact us today.

Every year new advancements take the hearing aid world by storm, and 2017 has been no exception. Whether it’s improvements in battery performance, connectivity features, or powerful programs that revolutionize the way you hear, we’re excited about each and every change. Here are a few of the awesome hearing aids from 2017 that you should know about.

Oticon OPN

One of our favorite hearing aids from 2017 isn’t new from this year, but has made some awesome changes worth talking about. This year, OPN released two new models, the fully rechargeable miniRITE, and the BTE13PP, a powerful hearing aid that combines power and sophistication in this device that’s fast becoming a favorite for those with severe hearing loss. Their best features, like their Open Sound Navigator and Speech Guard programs, have been combined with newly released features such as the Speech Rescue LX and the Tinnitus SoundSupport, so you’ll have clear hearing like never before.And don’t just take our word for it. The 2017 Edison Awards thought OPN was pretty awesome too, and gave Oticon a gold award in the Health & Wellness category, recognizing their innovative designs that combine creativity with the best in functionality.

ReSound LiNX 3D

If you want the best in connectivity, look no further than the awesome new hearing aid from ReSound. The LiNX 3D is a Made For iPhone device that gives you the best in clear hearing, spatial awareness, and speech understanding in any listening environment. What makes the LiNX 3D so special is the connectivity technology that allows you to stream phone calls, music, and audio from your iPhone, iPad, iPod, or Apple Watch directly to your hearing aids. For any other smartphone or Bluetooth-enabled device, your hearing aids will function like wireless headphones, so you’ll never have trouble connecting with your other devices. New in 2017, ReSound has also released a rechargeable model of their popular LiNX 3D device.

Widex Beyond Z

Widex doesn’t always get a lot of press, but they’re a manufacturer that makes some awesome hearing aids. Their devices offer full streaming capabilities without compromising battery life. This means you can stream longer with less power, and enjoy the sophisticated design that gives you natural hearing in any situation. For ultimate control, the Beyond app allows you to adjust settings and save templates for certain environments, so with just one touch your hearing aids will match your specific hearing needs in that situation.The latest advancement in Widex technology is the addition of a rechargeable battery to one of their best-selling models, Beyond. This Made For iPhone hearing aid will soon be available with a Z Power system, meaning you’ll be getting a fully rechargeable hearing aid that provides a lot of power. Not only that, but if you ever find yourself out of charge, you can simply swap the rechargeable batteries with zinc-air batteries for the day.

Signia Pure 13 BT

New from Signia this year is their Pure 13 BT device, featuring Made For iPhone technology. It offers the best in sound quality, connectivity, battery life, and even hearing care. As a Made For iPhone device, the Pure 13 BT places a lot of importance on amazing audio, and will stream high quality sound right to your ears. The entire device can be easily controlled using the myControl App, which allows you to make custom changes to the program settings, volume, and balance. What’s so awesome about this app is that it will also create a personalized sound profile of your noise exposure, so you’ll know when and where your hearing is at risk.One exciting innovation found only in the Pure 13 BT is a motion detection program for better hearing. The device uses the iPhone motion sensors to tell your hearing aids you’re in motion, and to provide information about your movement. Your hearing aids will dynamically adjust the programs and settings as the listening environment shifts, so you can easily carry on a conversation with the person walking with you while still maintaining awareness of other sounds around you, such as sirens, warning sounds, approaching vehicles, or other pedestrians.Ready to check out some of the awesome hearing aids of 2017? Visit us at Arizona Balance & Hearing Aids for a hearing assessment, and to learn more about these and other top selling hearing devices that will have you hearing in no time.

We’re deep into holiday season, and it’s a busy time. It’s also important to take a moment to think about your health and well-being. Sure, for many people the holidays are an exciting time to catch up with loved ones. But, we must also remember that for some, the holidays can be a tough time.We don’t mean to bring you down, but the holiday blues are a thing to consider. Mental health professionals point to the fact that there is an increase in depression during the holiday season, especially for people who are lonely, have negative associations from the past with the holidays, or have financial difficulties. While it’s not necessarily an issue for us here in Arizona, many parts of the country get darker earlier during the winter, so that adds another layer to the holiday blues – a seasonal depression.When it comes to hearing health, our specialty here at Arizona Balance and Hearing Aids, we want to make sure that you understand the wide-reaching benefits of treating hearing loss. One major benefit is your emotional well-being – both during the holidays and year-round.

Treating Hearing Loss Helps You with Mobility

A series of studies from Finland have indicated that people who treat hearing loss experience a more expansive “life space.” This means they have the confidence to move freely further from home base, giving them more opportunities to participate in activities they enjoy and to socialize with friends and members of the community. Meanwhile, people with untreated hearing loss have a much smaller life space. Due to difficulties with communication, people tend to stick closer to home or do not leave as often.Another element of hearing loss has to do with your safety and security. By treating hearing loss, you are more aware of the sounds in your environment and the alerts and alarms that keep you out of harm’s way. Driving is also safer if you treat your hearing loss, allowing you to move more freely. If you commute by public transportation, hearing aids also help you get around with ease.

Treating Hearing Loss Keeps Your Connected to Your Loved Ones

Communication is the bedrock of strong relationships, and that’s especially apparent during the holiday season. With hearing loss, people experience difficulties with communication due to speech recognition issues. Many people with hearing loss make the same complaint: they can hear, but they can’t understand. Hearing loss interferes with our ability to anticipate speech patterns and to differentiate between words or sounds that are similar, which could lead to misunderstandings and frustrations.By treating hearing loss, we’re making a concerted investment in maintaining healthy channels of communication with our loved ones. Hearing aids, commonly used to treat hearing loss, are equipped with features that help you focus on speakers’ voices, reduce background noise that might interfere with conversations, and help you experience speech sounds with clarity.Studies have found that people with untreated hearing loss tend to isolate themselves socially, because it is difficult to keep up with conversation. According to Dr. Sergei Kochkin of the Better Hearing Institute, “The holiday season is meant to be a time of thanks, celebration and joy. But for many people, it is a time of year when unaddressed hearing loss can cause them to feel particularly isolated and depressed. Even when surrounded by loved ones, a family member’s impaired ability to hear and actively participate in conversation cuts them off. Oftentimes, they are left with a sense of sadness, inadequacy, and emotional isolation. This is especially true when the hearing loss is either unrecognized or is being ‘hidden’ by the family member with hearing loss.”

This Holiday Season, Beat the Blues by Treating Hearing Loss

If you personally experience a hearing loss and have yet to treat it, now’s the time. There’s no reason to live with untreated hearing loss. A hearing test is simple and painless, and our team at Arizona Balance and Hearing Aids will support you through the process of finding the right treatment to meet your needs.If you believe a loved one is experiencing hearing loss, use this holiday season to gently encourage them to seek treatment with us at Arizona Balance and Hearing Aids. Offer your support and love, and remind them that by treating hearing loss, they’ll be able to reconnect with the loved ones in their life.From our team at Arizona Balance and Hearing Aids, we wish you and your loved ones a happy and healthy holiday season.

Who needs a white Christmas when you’ve got blue skies and beautiful weather for the holidays? Here in Phoenix, Arizona Balance and Hearing Aids helps people reconnect to the sounds of their lives. To celebrate this holiday season, we’ve put together some picks of great things to hear in Phoenix this month.

Las Noches de Las Luminarias, Desert Botanical Garden, through December 30

The desert at dusk is a sight to behold, and this December, the Desert Botanical Garden will feature more than 8,000 hand-lit luminaria bags and monumental sculptures by artist Jun Kaneko. The Christmas tradition of luminaria bags came from Spanish colonialists who were inspired by Chinese paper lanterns. Luminarias are made of simple brown paper bags, weighted down with sand, and illuminated from within with a candle.The Desert Botanical Garden’s magical ambiance includes 10 entertainment ensembles, including Simply Three. This family-friendly event includes dining options. Warm up with a cup of hot chocolate as the sun begins to set! Learn more here.

Holiday Ice Rink, Downtown Phoenix, through January 7

Ice-skating in the desert? Don’t miss it! At CityScape Phoenix (1 E. Washington Street), from December 1 to January 7, skate on real ice in the heart of downtown Phoenix! Decorated with classic, cozy Christmas items next to a 36-foot holiday tree, skaters can work on their twists and flips, while onlookers can sip a cup of hot cocoa. This family-friendly activity includes photos with Santa (Saturdays and Sundays, 4pm to 8pm), as well as pop-up art events with on-site performances by Saskia Jorda and an installation by Joe Pagac, as well as live music. Entry to the ice rink is $15/person. For more information, go here.

Phoenix Symphony December Events

This December, the Phoenix Symphony offers four incredible events throughout the month. Between December 1 and December 3, Holiday Pops brings Phoenix Symphony conductor Scott Terrell and the Phoenix Symphony Chorus together to showcase our favorite holiday favorites. Holiday Pops also includes a Holiday Sing-Along!Between December 6 and December 10, catch the annual holiday favorite, Handel’s Messiah, featuring conductor Tito Munoz, Shannon Mercer (soprano), Avery Amereau (mezzo soprano), Lawrence Wiliford (tenor), and William Berger (baritone), backed by the Phoenix Symphony Chorus. Get in the holiday spirit with the classic, “Hallelujah.”Tired of the same old Nutcracker performances? Check out A Cirque Nutcracker, a collaborative performance between the world-renowned Cirque troupe and the Phoenix Symphony Orchestra. Taking place at the Mesa Arts Center, A Cirque Nutcracker defies all expectations, with soaring dancers, hula hoops, strong men, contortionists, jugglers, and more – all 40 feet above the stage! A Cirque Nutcracker runs from December 15 to December 24.On New Year’s Eve, join the Phoenix Symphony Orchestra for a New Year’s Gala, which also happens to commemorate the orchestra’s 70^th season! Taking place at the McArthur Ballroom at the Arizona Biltmore, the gala includes a cocktail reception, dinner feast, dancing with the full Symphony Orchestra, and ringing in the new year with a champagne toast!To view the Phoenix Symphony’s full slate of December programming and to buy tickets, visit their website.

Herberger Theater Center December Events

The Herberger Theater Center is home to six resident theater companies (Arizona Theatre Company, Center Dance Ensemble, iTheatre Collaborative, Arizona Opera, Childsplay Theatre, and Arizona Broadway Theatre), and is proud of support and foster the growth of performing arts in Phoenix.This December, don’t miss the Center Dance Ensemble’s production of Frances Smith Cohen’s Snow Queen, running through December 17. Set to music by Sergei Prokofiev, this classic Hans Christian Andersen story will melt your heart.From December 9 to December 28, Arizona Broadway Theatre presents A Christmas Carol: The Musical, the classic Charles Dickens tale set to music. Follow the journey of Ebenezer Scrooge as he travels through his past, present, and future while learning the true meaning of Christmas.For a more detailed schedule and ticket information for these events, visit the Herberger Theater Center’s website.

Visit Us at Arizona Balance and Hearing Aids

Have you experienced changes in your hearing abilities? There’s no reason to live with untreated hearing loss. This holiday season, give yourself the gift of hearing. Schedule a comprehensive hearing exam and consultation with us at Arizona Balance and Hearing Aids.

Unilateral hearing loss is a hearing loss that happens in only one ear. Most cases of hearing loss that occur due to normal aging or noise induced hearing loss (NIHL) are bilateral – or in both ears. Unilateral hearing loss is most often caused by abrupt head injuries, viral infections, Meniere's disease, or after surgery to remove a brain tumor. Single sided deafness or SSD is another term for unilateral hearing loss. SSD and unilateral hearing loss bring along their own concerns and can sometimes be even more troublesome than bilateral hearing loss. Read on to learn more about unilateral hearing loss, and how it is diagnosed and treated.

Symptoms of Unilateral Hearing Loss

Unilateral hearing loss symptoms are varied. Obviously the most apparent symptom of unilateral hearing loss includes having unequal hearing abilities in each of your ears. How the hearing loss effects one, however, is a bit different than for those with bilateral hearing loss. Difficulty determining where a sound is coming from is a very common issue. This can make everyday activities such as crossing the street and navigating traffic not only difficult, but also downright dangerous. Some people with unilateral hearing loss notice it most when they are communicating with a large group of people such as at a family gathering or business meeting, or when they are in a noisy environment such as a restaurant or an airport.

Diagnosing Unilateral Hearing Loss

Your audiologist or hearing aid specialist will diagnose unilateral hearing loss in a similar way they diagnose bilateral hearing loss. First, you will be asked to fill in a questionnaire that will ask you about your personal and family lifestyle and medical history. Then, your audiologist will look into your ears with an otoscope to see if there is any external damage to your ear canal or eardrum. Next, you will undergo some very quick and very painless assessments. You will listen to a variety of tones and will be asked to indicate when you hear them. The exact types of assessments will vary depending on your audiologist and hearing profile. Once the assessments are finished, you and your audiologist or hearing aid specialist will sit down and discuss the results and potential treatment options.

Solutions for Those with Unilateral Hearing Loss

There are a few treatment options and solutions for people with unilateral hearing loss. The first, are contralateral routing of signal (CROS) hearing aids. This type of hearing aid is worn in the client’s “good” ear. On the deaf or hearing-impaired ear, there is a small microphone that picks up sounds and voices from the deaf side and transmits them to the hearing aid in the hearing ear. The second and newer treatment option is called a bone anchored hearing aid, or BAHA. A BAHA systems involves a small titanium implant placed in the bone behind the hearing impaired ear. This implant is then connected to a sound processor. The sound processor then picks up and transfers sounds through the bone to the hearing ear. With a bone anchored hearing aid, the wearer is able to hear sounds from both sides.There are also some coping strategies for living with unilateral hearing loss. Joining a lip reading class can be a great way to not only improve conversational understanding, but good way to meet other people also dealing with hearing loss. It is also important to make sure your communication partner sits on your “good” side. Learning what positioning works best for you can be a great skill to have in your pocket. Play around with different positioning techniques until you find the one that is most successful for your hearing profile.

How AZ Balance & Hearing Aids Can Help

Do you feel like you are hearing conversations but not understanding them? Are you becoming frustrated in social situations? Does your spouse or family constantly ask you to turn down the volume? If so, you may be experiencing some of the early signs of hearing loss – be it unilateral or bilateral. If you have noticed changes in your hearing, reach out to our friendly team today to schedule your first consultation. We look forward to hearing from you and joining you on your journey to better hearing and an improved quality of life.

Veteran’s Day recently passed, but it’s important for us to celebrate our brave heroes every day, and be cognizant of the specific needs and struggles of veterans in our daily lives. According to the Veteran’s Administration, hearing loss and tinnitus are the most commonly experienced conditions amongst returning Veterans. Combine this with the fact that our population is aging and our environment is becoming noisier – there are a lot of people who are currently learning to live with hearing loss.

One of these people is Texas based blogger Gayle Raif. Gayle became completely deaf at the age of 33. Some of the following are personal insights and suggestions on how to live with hearing loss, as a returning veteran or a citizen, as reported by the Longview News-Journal. Some of the following are suggestions from AZ Balance & Hearing Aids, based on our own experiences with clients as well as our own families.

Understand that hearing loss affects the people you love too

Being the person who has been affected by hearing loss – you may feel like your whole world has changed. You can no longer hear or understand the world in a way that you used to. This can be both scary and frustrating. While you work through accepting and understanding your hearing loss, it is important to remember that it also affects those around you.

It is extremely important to discuss your hearing loss with your spouse or loved ones and really listen to what they have to say. Try to have conversations in a quiet room, facing each other, when both people are calm and ready for a healthy conversation. Use “I” statements as much as possible. For example the person with hearing loss may state, “I feel ______ when ________ because I cannot hear or understand you”. The partner without hearing loss may say, “I feel _________ during _________ because I feel like I am not sure how to help you understand better”. Just remember that whatever your loved one is sharing with you is not an insult, it is an honest concern because they want to improve their communication with you.

As you’re talking, remember that you have years of bad habits to break. You might not even notice how often you talk to each other from other rooms or with your backs to each other. If both of you make an effort to acknowledge and change these habits, your communication will improve more quickly after your hearing loss.

Position yourself where it is easiest to hear

If you attend church or a lecture, sit as close to the front as possible. It is also a good idea to know how to turn on your hearing aids to be able to pick up on “Hearing Loops”. Hearing Loops allow hearing aid users to get the speaker’s voice (or orchestra music, or movie sounds etc.) streamed directly to your hearing aids. If you are having a meeting or choosing a table at a restaurant, sitting in a circle is ideal. This way, you are able to face each person in the group, and you won’t have to communicate with anyone without seeing their lips.

Visit us at Arizona Balance and Hearing Aids

In recent years, hearing aid technology has absolutely skyrocketed. There are many devices to choose from, all packed with different features to improve your quality of life based on your lifestyle, hearing profile, preferences and budget. At Arizona Balance and Hearing Aids, we will be able to help you find the perfect aid to jumpstart your adjustment to living with hearing loss.

It is important to remember that hearing aids will not solve all your problems. You will still need to communicate with your loved ones about hearing loss and use strategies to set yourself up for success. However, doing this will be much less stressful with the right hearing aids at the right adjustments!

A huge thank you from Arizona Balance & Hearing Aids

At Arizona Balance & Hearing Aids, we wanted to take the time to honor and thank all the heroes who have risked their lives to protect our country and freedoms. We truly respect each and every member of the armed forces who work tirelessly and sometimes thanklessly to make sure we live in a safe and free country. We salute you!

November 11th is an extremely important day for all of us at Arizona Balance & Hearing Aids, as well as Americans across the country and abroad. Veteran’s Day is a significant and special time for us to honor the brave men and women who have risked their lives and sacrificed so much to protect our country and our freedom.The least we can do for all the heroes who have sacrificed so much for us, is to protect them upon return. One way to help protect veterans is to protect their hearing, both before and after deployment.

Hearing Loss is a Big Issue for Members of the Armed Forces

Consistently, the US Department of Veterans Affairs reports hearing loss and tinnitus as the number one and number two most common injuries of service members. Stephen Carlson, an army veteran who wrote an article on the issue for the Washington Post states, “If there is a single injury that afflicts military personnel more than any other, it would be hearing loss and tinnitus, a ringing in the ears”. According to a study by the Journal of General Internal Medicine, about 16-24% of male Afghanistan war veterans suffer from hearing loss, and many never even think to get their hearing checked. When veterans come home with severe bodily injuries such as amputations or traumatic mental illnesses such as PTSD, it is easy for hearing loss to be overlooked.Although easy to do so, veterans shouldn’t overlook hearing loss, because it has a huge impact on overall quality of life. Take retired Army Captain Mark Brogan for example. Although he has suffered spine and brain damage, as well as a nearly severed arm due to a suicide bomber in Iraq, he considers his hearing loss and tinnitus to be amongst his worst injuries.

Current Hearing Protection Practices in the Military

Hearing protection for military service members is mandatory, and ranges from large headphones to noise-cancelling combat earplugs. The earplugs are meant to only block noises at high decibels – but this isn’t always the case. While these protections are high tech and compulsory, most soldiers don’t wear them. Many soldiers report opting out of wearing hearing protection because they block out minute and subtle sounds that could easily mean life or death for an active duty military member. This conundrum may be one of the reasons hearing loss has such a severe impact on our valued veterans.

Hearing Loss Services for Veterans in Arizona

If you are a veteran with hearing loss, you may be entitled to benefits including hearing screens and hearing aids. If you think you may have hearing loss, there are multiple ways to apply for benefits. To begin this process, veterans should apply for enrollment using an online form, by calling 1-877-222-8387 or visiting a VA healthcare facility or regional office. At the time of registration, applicants will need a copy of the Veteran's DD214, driver's license and health insurance (if available).Heroes with Hearing Loss is also a great resource full of helpful links for veterans with hearing loss. The website exists to help veterans explore benefits or learn more valuable information on hearing impairment.We know that dealing with Veteran’s Affairs can often be a stressful, traumatic, and time-consuming process. We understand that it may be easier to ignore your hearing loss rather than reaching out to the VA. We encourage you to take control of your quality of life by getting your hearing checked. Treating hearing loss with hearing aids can be a powerful tool for reconnecting with your loved ones, feeling less isolated in social situations, and better enjoying the softer sounds of life.

A Salute to Veterans

At Arizona Balance & Hearing Aids, we want to take a particular moment to honor and pay respect to all the heroes in the armed forces, whether deployed, at base, passed or safely home. Whatever your role in the military – we salute you. We thank you dearly for the extreme sacrifices you have made in order for us to live in a free and safe country. Men and women of the military, we send you our sincerest gratitude and appreciation, this Veteran’s Day and everyday.

Hearing loss education has been gaining momentum over the past several decades, with more and more research pointing to the ways our hearing health affects much more than our ears. The impact of hearing impairment ripples out through people’s lives and is deeply connected to our overall mental and physical health. Yet despite this raising awareness, many myths about hearing loss stubbornly persist. Often, you can find this nonsense being pandered as “common sense” even though the misinformation is false and detrimental. To set the record straight, let’s take a look at some of the common misperceptions about hearing loss.

Losing Some of Your Hearing Is No Big Deal

Fact:

Our hearing is intrinsically connected to how we navigate the world and to the overall health of our body. When our hearing is impaired, it greatly increases our susceptibility to mental health problems such as depression, anxiety and isolation. The limitations untreated hearing loss puts upon our ability to communicate can strain relationships and diminish our earning power in the workforce. Hearing loss also can wear away at our cognitive abilities increasing the risk of dementia and accidental injury.Hearing loss is a big deal if left untreated, a disability that can take a big toll on your quality of life. The good news is that treatment for hearing loss can help minimize this toll. Hearing devices and therapies help people with hearing loss recover their connections to communication and health. Although much hearing loss is permanent, it can be effectively managed.

Fiction:

You Don’t Have to Worry About Hearing Loss Until You Are Older

Fact:

Taking care of your hearing is a lifelong job, and in today’s noisy world, it’s more important than ever to realize the cumulative effect that loud noise can have on your hearing. Permanent hearing loss can occur in response to any dangerously loud noise levels, no matter what age you are. While some consistently loud occupations regulate hearing protection with OSHA standards, daily life presents plenty of opportunity for damaging your hearing without workplace noise. Unprotected ears are vulnerable to sudden damage from noises like fireworks or gun shots, and to more gradual damage from sources like overly loud earbuds or commuting noise.While it is true that our hearing becomes more easily damaged as we age, a large part of age-related hearing loss is the result of progressive damage that happens throughout our lives. Damage to the sensitive hair cells of the inner ear can happen at any age and the damage is permanent. Always look out for your hearing, and if you notice changes, schedule a hearing exam.

Fiction:

Hearing Loss Is Easy To Notice

Fact:

You may have significant hearing loss, and not even know it. Hearing impairment and the damage it can do to your life often occurs slowly and gradually over time. You may not catch yourself avoiding social situations where noise confusion makes comprehension difficult. You might not even connect the dots between asking people to repeat themselves often may indicate you are having trouble hearing. If a friend or loved one suggests you have your hearing examined, take them seriously – they may be noticing something you aren’t, in the context of sounds you can’t hear.

Fiction:

Hearing Aids Don’t Really Work

Fact:

Although hearing aids are haunted by a public perception that they are clunky and ineffective, the reality is the exact opposite. Modern hearing aids are discreet microcomputers with the ability to help people restore much of the hearing they have lost. Most hearing devices can be hidden entirely behind or inside the ear, and are fitted and programmed to respond to the unique hearing needs of the user. Many new hearing aids can stream audio directly from smart phones and other digital devices directly into the user’s ear for clear and focused listening experiences. When looking for a hearing device, it’s important to find one that can be programmed to best enhance your hearing. Consulting with a hearing specialist will put you on the right track towards finding the best hearing aid for your lifestyle.

Arizona Balance & Hearing Aids

If there have been changes to your hearing recently, get the facts at Arizona Balance & Hearing Aids. Our professional team is focused on connecting our patrons with thorough testing and custom treatment. Set up an appointment today and get on the path to hearing wellness.

If you’ve had your hearing aids for several years, compare your experience now to the time before you were fitted for them. Do you remember how muddled sounds were before? Do you remember straining to hear?If you’ve experience sound that is not as clear as usual with this current pair of hearing aids, it may be a sign that your hearing aids are in need of repair or maintenance. You may also need your hearing aids re-fitted if they are not functioning properly. As with all electronic devices, hearing aids may not function as well over time due to regular wear. Most hearing aids last an average of five to seven years, depending on the model, style, and environmental factors.If you’re experiencing changes in your hearing, here are factors to consider about updating your hearing aids.

Your Hearing Aids are Not Working as Well

Hearing aids are powerful little devices, and it’s important to consider the work they do every day. From the moment you wake up until the moment you go to bed, hearing aids are working to provide you with clear sound signals and speech intelligibility. In some instances, your hearing aids may even connect you to your smartphone, and stream phone calls, music, and other media.It’s important to take precautionary measures with your hearing aids, by storing them in a safe dry location, ensuring that they have not been exposed regularly to moisture, humidity, or other elements. It’s also important to make sure that your hearing aids are regularly cleaned and maintained by our team at Arizona Balance and Hearing Aids. While repairs here and there are normal, if your hearing aids are malfunctioning regularly or they require much more maintenance, it may be time to update your hearing aids.Problems that may indicate you need a new pair of hearing aids include: quickly draining batteries, even though you’ve just replaced them; constant buzzing or whistling that won’t go away with repairs; and inconsistent sound quality and volume that doesn’t change with repairs.Before you decide to update your hearing aids, contact us at Arizona Balance and Hearing Aids. One of our team members will take a look at your current pair of hearing aids to determine their current performance level and abilities.

Your Hearing Abilities Have Changed

The important thing to remember is that your sense of hearing constantly changes. Even if you’ve treated your hearing loss with hearing aids, this doesn’t mean the condition is cured. Hearing loss may worsen over time.Therefore, if sounds are not quite as clear as before and the features of your hearing aids no longer work as well as they once did, visit us at Arizona Balance and Hearing so we can check out your hearing aids. If there doesn’t seem to be any issue with the hearing aids, it may be that your hearing abilities have changed and it’s time to take a new hearing test.At your hearing test, we will identify your current hearing abilities. We’ll use this information to determine whether you need to update your hearing aids to a pair that will better meet your current hearing needs.

Your Lifestyle Has Changed

When you were fitted for your current pair of hearing aids, you consulted with your hearing specialist about different aspects of your lifestyle. These factors are important to finding the perfect pair of hearing aids to seamlessly fit into your life.With major lifestyle changes, you may find that you require your hearing aids to have a longer battery life or wireless features. If you’ve recently switched jobs, you may consider updating to a pair of hearing aids that offer technology to better fit your occupation. If you’ve taken up a new sport, you may want a pair of hearing aids that are moisture or sweat resistant to provide better protection.Most hearing aids are digital and offer sophisticated features and technology to the different aspects of hearing loss. With wireless connectivity, phone calls, music, and other media may be streamed directly from a smartphone, your car, or your home entertainment system. Additionally, new and improved hearing aid features provide better cancellation of background noise and improve speech recognition.

You Want the Latest Technology

When’s the last time you looked at the newest hearing aids on the market? Manufacturers are consistently rolling out new and improved models, providing ground-breaking technology with ultra-fast processing systems, wireless capabilities, and incredible sound features. Did you know there’s a new hearing aid that connects directly to the Internet? Tech junkie or not, there’s a lot of exciting new features available to help you hear even better.

Visit Us at Arizona Balance and Hearing Aids

Hearing aids are an excellent investment in your hearing health, and your overall health. They connect you to your loved ones and ensure your safety and security. If you’ve experienced changes with your hearing aids, your hearing abilities, or your lifestyle, you may want to update your hearing aids.At Arizona Balance and Hearing Aids, we offer advanced hearing aids with the most updated technology. Visit us for more information.

Hearing loss ranks as one of the most common chronic public health issues in the country. This is perhaps in some respect due to the pervasiveness of age related hearing loss in people over the age of 65. Adjusting to life after a hearing loss can take a little time, but most people are able to lead full and meaningful lives once they seek intervention. However, recent studies suggest a link between hearing loss and diabetes, urging folks with this widespread condition to monitor their risk for developing additional health problems.What might be most alarming is the rise of diabetes in the American population over the past few decades, particularly among children. We can’t yet know what effect this will have on the rate of hearing loss for years to come.For many years, there have been reports linking these two chronic health conditions. While many have noted the increase in risk, it was an analyzation of thirteen hearing loss studies by a team of Japanese researchers that stated the risk of developing diabetes was twice as high for people with hearing loss. Published in 2012, the study shows a strong correlation between the two but cannot claim a cause-and-effect link because it was purely an observational study. However, it does raise serious cause for further inquiry into the connection.Causes of correlationThe most compelling explanation for the link between hearing loss and diabetes is the effect that high blood sugar can have on blood vessels in the body. When a diabetic condition isn’t monitored closely and blood sugar levels controlled, it can wreak havoc on these extremely important cells. And we’ve long known that restricted blood flow to the inner ear can cause irreparable damage the delicate systems that govern our ability to hear clearly. Complicating factorsWhat is most perplexing about the observational study, though, is the finding that linking diabetes and hearing loss doesn’t necessarily coincide with older participants. In fact, the link was even weightier in a younger observational group, where people with diabetes had a 2.6 higher risk of hearing loss.One might suggest that the older population were more likely to responsibly manage their diabetes and thus somewhat reduce the risk of hearing impairment. But the finding so strongly contradicting conventional explanations for the connection does require additional and more focused study of the issue.Get it checked outOne way to make sure that you don’t become a statistic supporting the link is to be aware of what early signs of both hearing loss and diabetes look like. The early warnings of age related hearing loss, in which the auditory system simply wears out slowly and progressively over time can be surprising. Instead of a general lowering of overall volume, sounds actually first simply appear distorted. Someone with early hearing loss may ask people to repeat themselves more frequently or misunderstand a growing number of conversations.Early warning signs of diabetes are noticing that you are hungrier or thirstier than usual. You also may experience greater levels of fatigue more frequently. Feeling dehydrated and experiencing blurred vision are also often reported in the earlier stages of diabetes.The great news is that both of these conditions are easily diagnosed and intervention is possible after a simple test!Make healthy changes Of course, prevention is always the best medicine. While folks recently diagnosed with hearing loss can easily slip into unhealthy eating habits as a way to help improve their mood or provide comfort, staying healthy across the board is actually a better coping mechanism. Reaching for a sugary treat might be a good quick fix in the moment, but turning this strategy into a long-term habit can actually compound your health problems.If you’re living with hearing loss, schedule a check-in with a dietician. They can assist you in making sure that among the myriad of better choices you’re now making for a healthier hearing life include better choices for your nutritional life, too. A better diet and regular exercise goes beyond diabetes prevention, too. Giving your body the fuel and nutrients it needs can lift your mood, just as a refreshing bout of exercise can also do wonders for your mindset.Experiencing changes with your hearing? Visit us at Arizona Balance and Hearing Aids for a consultation.

In many ways, technology has improved our standard of living. We have more access to information than ever before, with instant updates on our personal electronic devices. Technology has improved emergency response time, gotten better at predicting inclement weather, and has provided new forms of treatment in medical care.When it comes to hearing health, there have been significant technological strides. Hearing aids now provide wearers with instant access to audio through their smartphones, streaming phone conversations, music, and other media directly to the hearing aids. Their small size and super-fast sound processing platforms ensure that people with hearing loss now hear better than ever before. Certain hearing aids have also been found to outperform normal hearing in challenging noise situations!Even so, advancements in technology are a double-edged sword. The dependency and efficiency of today’s electronics could potentially harm our hearing, if left unchecked. Moreover, some studies have posited that modern life is louder than ever before. The main concern is the on-going exposure to loud noises, which could harm your hearing and lead to noise-induced hearing loss.

Understanding Noise-Induced Hearing Loss

Noise-induced hearing loss is one of the most common forms of hearing loss, along with presbycusis (age-related). It is a form of sensorineural hearing loss. Sensorineural hearing loss occurs in the inner ear, due to the irreparable damage of inner ear hair cells. Inner ear hair cells receive vibrations of sound waves from the middle ear and translate them into neural signals sent to the brain to be processed as sound. This form of hearing loss may be caused by certain antibiotic medications, presbycusis, or trauma to the head and neck area, to name a few.Another cause of sensorineural hearing loss is exposure to loud sounds. All sounds can be measured in decibels. A regular conversation, sitting face to face with someone, usually clocks in around 60 decibels. Sounds that could harm our hearing – after just one hour of exposure – tend to be above 85 decibels. At 120 decibels, we may be at risk for immediate, permanent hearing damage.

Faster, Stronger…Louder?

With more reliable rechargeable batteries, our electronics these days last longer than devices such as the Walkman, which required constant battery changes. Advancements in technology mean we have access to clearer, richer sound than ever before. This makes watching film or video, or listening music, far more enjoyable than the days when images were blurry or sounds were muddled and scratchy.Moreover, there is so much more at our disposal these days. In a single hour of surfing the internet, we could run through videos on YouTube, a TV show on Netflix, and have a video chat with a friend. We don’t even have to sit at home to do this! We can access these various forms of media virtually anywhere we go, thanks to 3G and WiFi. And usually, we’re accessing the audio with the use of convenient earbuds.

The Danger of Earbuds

Portable audio devices are ubiquitous now, and earbuds are convenient and portable. In previous generations, headphones were usually worn over the ear, which is significantly less dangerous to hearing than earbuds.Coupled with long-lasting battery life of personal electronic devices, such as a smartphone, iPod, or tablet, it is not uncommon for people to be plugged in for many hours at a time, with earbuds, playing music and media at high-risk volumes. Though some devices offer volume control or alerts to let you know that you are approaching dangerously loud levels, they are easily ignored.Earbuds play sounds 7 to 9 decibels higher than over-the-ear headphones, and since they are not effective at blocking out extraneous noise, earbud wearers tend to turn them up louder in order to drown out competing sounds. The proximity of the earbud to the eardrum can lead to serious damage.

Preventing Noise-Induced Hearing Loss

Reducing the amount of damaging noises in your daily life will help to prevent hearing loss in the long term. Using noise-canceling headphones is the healthiest option for your hearing, as they cancel out external noise and do not require you to crank up the volume in order to hear. While listening to music or media on your personal electronic devices, be sure to wear noise-canceling over-the-ear headphones, rather than earbuds, and follow the 60-60 rule: 60% volume for no more than 60 minutes at a time. Make sure to give your ears a chance to rest!

Get Your Hearing Tested

At Arizona Balance and Hearing Aids, we are excited by advancements in technology – especially hearing aid technology. Visit us for a hearing test and learn more about the sophisticated hearing devices we offer.

Many people who could benefit from hearing aids are discouraged from trying them by a number of misconceptions. Here are a few common misunderstandings about hearing devices, and why you shouldn’t be scared to take the plunge with these invaluable tools.

Misconception: Only older people need to wear hearing aids.

The stigma of hearing loss being a sign of old age is quickly fading into the past. The fact is that many young people, from children to teens to people in their 20’s and 30’s have a hearing loss that is serious enough to require a hearing aid. Age-related hearing loss may still be the most common variety, but noise-induced hearing loss is becoming increasingly prevalent due to occupational noise, loud leisure-time activities, and personal music devices. Hearing aid companies now design hearing devices with younger people in mind, and there are numerous smart, sleek, high-tech options to choose from, for people of any age.

2) My friend didn’t like wearing aids, so I won’t either.

Just as every hearing loss is different, everyone will have a different experience of wearing hearing aids. Don’t be discouraged from giving hearing aids a try because someone you know didn’t seem to have success with them. Also, keep in mind that there is an adjustment period to wearing hearing aids, and many people see an improvement in their quality of life after getting used to their devices. Modern hearing aids can be customized your exact listening needs, further increasing your comfort.

3) Hearing aids are large and noticeable.

Although this is true of the hearing aids of the past, many of the devices on the market today are small and discreet, and come in a range of models. Even the more conventional behind-the-ear styles are less noticeable than they were in the past. If you are really interested in an under-the-radar hearing aid, a tiny in-the-ear device could be just right for you. But with more and more celebrities wearing their hearing aids proudly, it may not be as necessary to hide your hearing loss as you think. Furthermore, because hearing loss is the third most common medical condition in the United States, people are breaking down the taboo surrounding it.

4) I’ll probably only need one hearing device.

With most cases of hearing loss, regardless of whether it be because of aging, noise-related damage or a blend of the two, regularly happens in both ears. You may have hearing loss that is more severe in one ear than the other, yet just as with glasses, it is typically necessary to treat the loss on both sides. The brain hears best when it gets signals from both ears, so being fitted with binaural listening devices that help your ears to cooperate is usually the best approach.At your consultation and hearing test, your hearing care specialist can analyze the level of your listening ability in both ears and work with you to select the hearing aids that will be the most helpful.In the case of unilateral hearing loss (in which hearing loss occurs only in one ear), there are devices that are specially designed to accommodate hearing with the “good ear.” Sounds are picked up, analyzed, and balanced, providing a fuller picture of sound that recreates binaural hearing.

5) Buying hearing aids online is a good idea.

In spite of the fact that there may appear to be many inexpensive hearing aid solutions online, purchasing hearing devices on the internet without the advice of a hearing specialist or audiologist could end up costing you more in the long run. There is more to choosing the right hearing aids than simply giving yourself a self-test and clicking “buy now” on the web: the gadgets should be appropriately fitted to your ears to make sure the amplification is the most effective that it can be. Your hearing instrument specialist also needs to thoroughly evaluate your level of hearing loss and help you to choose the correct devices for your listening needs and lifestyle, as well as double-check the devices are functioning properly once you have them in your ears. Where your hearing is concerned, think twice about Amazon, and don't skip a personalized hearing test and fitting.

Visit us at Arizona Balance & Hearing Aids

The chance to enhance your listening ability, and your life, is only a few steps away. If you think you may be experiencing hearing loss, don't be frightened off from trying hearing aids by any misconceptions. Call us at Arizona Balance and Hearing Aids to schedule your personal consultation today.

If you have experienced changes in your hearing, and the condition conditions to worsen, there may be the chance that you do not want anyone else to find out, not even your loved ones. After all, admitting you have hearing loss or, heaven forbid, actually wearing hearing aids, will make you seem so much older, right? Wrong! Pretending to hear is one of the worst things you can do for your hearing health and your relationships.

Why We Pretend to Hear

Have you ever been in a crowded restaurant with your family or friends? Someone starts talking to you, but with all the background noise it’s hard to hear what they’re saying. You ask them to repeat themselves, but you still can’t understand what they’re saying. What do you do? They’re obviously excited to be telling you about whatever it is, and you don’t want to make them feel bad, so you just smile and nod. You pretend you can hear, and give up on straining to catch what they’re saying to you.Then it happens. They ask you a question! You don’t know what they’ve been talking about, and certainly didn’t hear the question. What happens next? You know that sinking feeling in your gut, and the feeling of embarrassment as you try to answer a question you didn’t hear as vaguely as possible so they won’t realize you didn’t understand a word they’ve said. They look confused. You know you’ve made another mistake and your face flushes. You silently promise yourself you won’t come to this restaurant again, no matter who invites you.It should come as no surprise that untreated hearing loss often leads to social isolation, as people who struggle to hear in social settings prefer to avoid them.

How Pretending to Hear is Bad for Your Hearing Health

When you pretend to hear, you may inadvertently back yourself into a corner. No matter which way you go, you’re in for some embarrassment when your friends find out you didn’t understand them, and haven’t been hearing anything clearly all evening. Pretending among your friends is one thing, but have you ever pretended at work? What if you haven’t understood what your boss has told you to do, or didn’t catch the explanation your colleague gave you? If you don’t admit you couldn’t understand and make sure you’re clear on the project, you’re in danger of making a big mistake that could cost you a lot of respect, or maybe even your job.Pretending to hear might seem like a good idea in the moment, and help you save face in the short term, but the reality is that it has a negative impact on your hearing and your overall health. It won’t be long before you don’t go out with your friends, and start to isolate yourself. You’ll feel stressed and lonely, and may make a lot of mistakes in both your personal and professional life. With social isolation comes cognitive decline, and further hearing loss. This is a vicious cycle that will get you into trouble a lot sooner than you think.

Get Your Hearing Tested

The truth is, not being able to hear, answering inappropriately, or asking someone to repeat themselves 10 times over makes you look old. Wearing a nearly invisible, sleek hearing aid tucked behind your ear or resting snugly in your ear canal is far less noticeable. In fact, your friends probably won’t even notice unless you point it out to them. Which you just might want to do once you realize what this amazing little device is doing for you. As you adjusting to your new device, be patient with yourself and ask your loved ones for support if you need it. Your friends will have no problem making accommodations for you. They want you to hear too!Are you convinced yet? It’s time to put your hearing health first, and make an appointment for a hearing test. They’re quick, easy, and painless, and will include a discussion with one of our hearing professionals to review your health, a physical exam to look for blockages or damage to your ears, and a hearing exam to see how well you’re hearing in quiet and in noise.Break the dangerous cycle of pretending to hear by contacting us at AZ Balance & Hearing Aids today!