Choosing Who Cares for Your Hearing

By: Stacia Moore, Au.D.
Doctor of Audiology
Moore Hearing, PC
Kalispell, MT
www.moorehearing.net
(406) 257-2273

Hearing loss is an invisible disability and is more common than one might think. It is estimated that 10% of the population of North America has some type of hearing loss. Hearing loss is the third most common health problem in the United States. If an individual’s hearing is left untreated, they will experience some form of communication problem in their daily lives.

Most forms of hearing loss develop gradually over a period of time and is therefore difficult to notice. It is often more apparent to friends and family than to the hearing impaired individual themselves. The Council on Aging has shown that persons with hearing loss may show reduced social interaction, depression, anxiety, emotional turmoil and possibly insecurity. Conversely, those seeking help for the hearing loss often report improved mental health, improved personal relationships, better self-esteem and overall improved quality of life.

There are many different causes of hearing loss and, for various reasons, it can affect all ages – not just our senior population. Some of the more common causes are hereditary, physical trauma, disease, noise exposure and, of course, the aging process. As we mature, it is inevitable that we will acquire some form of gray hair, wrinkles and hearing loss. The good news is there is help for individuals experiencing hearing loss. Where should one turn for help; who should we choose to care for our hearing health care needs?

When it comes to hearing loss, be cautious about tempting “offers”, free “exams” and special “promotions”. There is no “free lunch”. Experience and education of the provider should be your guiding factors. Audiologists are hearing health professionals who identify and measure hearing loss. They perform a variety of tests to assess the specific type and degree of hearing loss. An audiologist will make necessary referrals to other health care providers and will help guide you to the best course of management for your particular impairment. Based on the test results, the audiologist has the training and education to determine whether hearing aids will be beneficial for your particular needs and situations.

Some of the services that an audiologist provides are:

• Comprehensive hearing evaluations for persons of all ages.
• Selection and fitting of hearing aids and other assistive listening devices.
• Patient and family counseling about living with hearing loss.
• Hearing conservation programs to prevent hearing loss.
• Research and development of new evaluation techniques, rehabilitation strategies and hearing instrument technologies.

An audiologist has a graduate or post-graduate degree, has completed a clinical internship and has passed a comprehensive national standardized examination. They have the professional credentials and education to best serve the needs of the hearing impaired population.

What is a Doctor of Audiology? This is an independent professional who specializes in the identification, management and treatment of hearing and balance disorders from birth through adulthood. The doctoring audiologist has earned a doctoral degree (Au.D.) from a regionally accredited educational institution. Doctors of Audiology practice in a variety of settings including: private practice clinics, medical clinics, ENT offices, hospitals, schools, colleges/universities and nursing homes. They may also serve as consultants to various commercial industries. The public benefits from the quality of care resulting from Doctor of Audiology professionals.

When you are making important decisions regarding your hearing health care, be sure you understand exactly WHO is providing the care and WHAT services you are receiving. The answers to these questions will make all the difference in the world in providing for a more positive and satisfactory experience for you.