Winter Hearing Aid Tips

As winter descends, individuals with hearing aids may encounter specific challenges related to the colder weather. Purchase Ear Technology understands the importance of maintaining optimal hearing aid performance during this season and offers valuable tips to ensure that users can navigate the winter months with ease.

  1. Protecting Against Moisture: Winter often brings snow and rain, posing a risk of moisture damage to hearing aids. Purchase Ear Technology recommends investing in moisture-resistant covers or sleeves for your hearing aids. These accessories act as a barrier, preventing water from reaching the sensitive electronic components. Additionally, when not in use, store your hearing aids in a dehumidifier to eliminate any accumulated moisture.
  2. Insulation from the Cold: Extreme cold temperatures can impact the battery life and overall performance of hearing aids. To counter this, Purchase Ear Technology advises users to keep their hearing aids warm. When outdoors, wear a hat or earmuffs to shield your ears and hearing aids from the cold. If possible, store spare batteries in a pocket close to your body to maintain their effectiveness in lower temperatures.
  3. Regular Maintenance Checks: Winter conditions may exacerbate issues such as earwax buildup or debris in the hearing aid components. Purchase Ear Technology recommends performing regular maintenance checks, cleaning your hearing aids with a dry, soft cloth, and using a small brush to clear any accumulated debris. If you notice persistent issues, seek professional assistance to ensure your hearing aids are functioning optimally.
  4. Investing in Wind Protection Accessories: Winter often brings gusty winds, which can create challenges for hearing aid users. Consider purchasing wind protection accessories, such as specialized microphone covers, to minimize wind noise interference. These accessories help maintain clear sound quality even in windy conditions, enhancing the overall listening experience.
  5. Securing Hearing Aid Retainers: Winter activities like skiing, snowboarding, or other outdoor sports may increase the risk of losing your hearing aids. Purchase Ear Technology recommends using hearing aid retainers or clips to secure your devices in place. These accessories provide an extra layer of protection, ensuring that your hearing aids stay securely attached during winter adventures.
  6. Professional Check-ups: Schedule regular check-ups with a hearing care professional, especially before the onset of winter. Professional inspections can identify any potential issues, ensure proper fit, and address concerns that may affect your hearing aids’ performance in colder weather.

Purchase Ear Technology emphasizes the significance of proactive measures to address winter-related challenges for hearing aid users. By incorporating these tips into your routine, you can enjoy a seamless hearing experience throughout the winter months, maintaining the effectiveness and longevity of your hearing aids.

If we can assist you during these cold winter months, give us a call at (270) 558-3996.  Purchase Ear Technology is conveniently located at 2008 Broadway Street in Paducah, KY.  At Purchase Ear Technology, you are more than a patient.  You are FAMILY!

The Early Signs of Hearing Loss: What to Watch For

Hearing loss is a common condition that can affect people of all ages, yet it often develops so gradually that many individuals don’t realize they have a problem until it significantly impacts their daily lives. Recognizing the early signs of hearing loss is crucial for seeking timely intervention and preserving your quality of life. At Purchase Ear Technology in Paducah, KY, we are dedicated to helping you identify these signs and find the best hearing solutions for your needs.

Common Early Signs of Hearing Loss

  1. Difficulty Understanding Conversations
    If you find yourself frequently asking people to repeat themselves, especially in noisy environments, this may be an early indicator of hearing loss. You might hear sounds but struggle to distinguish specific words.
  2. Turning Up the Volume
    Do family members or friends often comment that your TV or radio volume is too loud? If you consistently need higher volumes than those around you, it could be a sign that your hearing is declining.
  3. Muffled or Distorted Sounds
    Many people with early hearing loss describe sounds as muffled or unclear. Voices may seem like they are coming from a distance, making it challenging to follow conversations, especially over the phone.
  4. Struggling in Noisy Environments
    Hearing loss often becomes most noticeable in environments with background noise, such as restaurants, crowded events, or social gatherings. If you find it hard to filter out background noise and focus on a conversation, it might be time to have your hearing checked.
  5. Ringing or Buzzing in the Ears (Tinnitus)
    Persistent ringing, buzzing, or hissing sounds in the ears, known as tinnitus, can be an early warning sign of hearing damage. While tinnitus is not always linked to hearing loss, it frequently coexists with it.
  6. Difficulty Hearing High-Pitched Sounds
    The ability to hear high-frequency sounds, such as birds chirping, children’s voices, or doorbells, is often one of the first things affected by hearing loss. If these sounds seem faint or disappear altogether, it’s worth getting a hearing evaluation.
  7. Avoiding Social Situations
    Many people experiencing hearing loss start avoiding social interactions because conversations become exhausting and frustrating. This withdrawal can lead to feelings of isolation and even impact mental health.

When to Seek Professional Help

If you recognize any of these signs in yourself or a loved one, it’s essential to seek professional help as soon as possible. Early intervention can prevent further hearing deterioration and improve your overall quality of life. At Purchase Ear Technology, Tim Harmon and our experienced team offers comprehensive hearing evaluations and personalized solutions, including hearing aids and assistive listening devices.

Schedule a Hearing Test Today

Don’t let hearing loss go unnoticed—take control of your hearing health today. Contact Purchase Ear Technology in Paducah, KY by calling (270) 558-3996 to schedule a hearing assessment and explore your options for better hearing. Your ability to communicate and enjoy life depends on it!

Purchase Ear Technology is conveniently located at 2008 Broadway St in Paducah, KY.  At Purchase Ear Technology, you are more than a patient.  YOU ARE FAMILY!

Enhancing Your Hearing with Purchase Ear Technology in Paducah, KY

Hearing is one of our most valuable senses, allowing us to connect with loved ones, enjoy our favorite sounds, and stay engaged in the world around us. At Purchase Ear Technology in Paducah, KY, we are dedicated to providing top-tier hearing solutions to help you enjoy life to the fullest.

Why Choose Purchase Ear Technology?

With years of experience in hearing care, our team understands that every individual’s hearing needs are unique. We take a personalized approach to finding the best solutions, ensuring you receive the best possible care and support.

Our Services

At Purchase Ear Technology, we offer a comprehensive range of hearing services, including:

  • Hearing Evaluations – Professional assessments to determine the level of hearing loss and recommend suitable solutions.
  • Hearing Aid Fittings & Repairs – Advanced technology and expert fittings to enhance comfort and performance.
  • Custom Hearing Protection – Protect your ears from loud noises with custom-fit solutions.
  • Assistive Listening Devices – Additional tools to improve hearing clarity in different environments.

Cutting-Edge Hearing Solutions

We work with industry-leading hearing aid brands and the latest technology to provide superior sound quality, speech clarity, and ease of use. Whether you need discreet, rechargeable, or Bluetooth-compatible hearing aids, we have a solution tailored for you.

Experience the Difference

Personalized Care – Every patient receives individual attention and customized recommendations.
Experienced Specialists – Tim Harmon and his staff have extensive experience in diagnosing and treating hearing loss.
Affordable Options – We offer a range of pricing options to suit different budgets.
Ongoing Support – We are here to help you maintain your hearing aids and adjust them as needed.

Schedule Your Appointment Today!

Don’t let hearing loss affect your quality of life. Whether you need a hearing checkup, new hearing aids, or expert advice, Purchase Ear Technology is here to help. Give us a call today at (270) 558-3996 or stop by our office at 2008 Broadway Street in Paducah.

Tim Harmon Hearing Aid Specialist

Discover Better Hearing with Purchase Ear Technology in Paducah, KY

At Purchase Ear Technology, we’re passionate about helping you rediscover the joy of clear and vibrant sound. Located at 2008 Broadway St in Paducah, KY, our practice is dedicated to providing comprehensive hearing care services tailored to your unique needs. Led by Tim Harmon, a trusted local audiologist, we strive to deliver personalized solutions to improve your hearing and enhance your quality of life.

Why Choose Purchase Ear Technology?

  1. Expert Audiology Care: With years of experience, Tim Harmon is committed to delivering exceptional care and ensuring that you feel confident and supported throughout your hearing journey.
  2. Customized Solutions: We understand that every patient’s hearing needs are different. That’s why we offer tailored solutions designed to match your lifestyle and preferences.
  3. State-of-the-Art Technology: Our clinic utilizes the latest advancements in hearing aids and diagnostic tools to provide accurate assessments and effective treatments.
  4. Compassionate Service: At Purchase Ear Technology, you’re more than just a patient—you’re family. We take pride in offering friendly, attentive care that puts you at ease.

Our Services

We provide a wide range of services to meet your hearing health needs:

  • Comprehensive Hearing Evaluations: Precise testing to assess your hearing ability and identify any issues.
  • Hearing Aid Fitting and Maintenance: From selecting the right device to ensuring it’s working perfectly, we’re here every step of the way.
  • Custom Hearing Protection: Protect your ears with custom-fit solutions for musicians, hunters, and industrial workers.
  • Tinnitus Management: Relief and support for those experiencing ringing or buzzing in the ears.
  • Assistive Listening Devices: Additional tools to improve hearing in specific environments like meetings or theaters.

Meet Tim Harmon

Tim Harmon is a highly respected audiologist and the cornerstone of Purchase Ear Technology. With a genuine passion for improving lives through better hearing, Tim takes the time to understand your concerns and craft personalized treatment plans. Known for his approachable demeanor and expert knowledge, Tim is a trusted partner in your hearing health journey.

Schedule Your Appointment Today!

Don’t let hearing challenges hold you back from enjoying life to the fullest. Take the first step toward better hearing with Purchase Ear Technology in Paducah, KY.

Contact us today to schedule your appointment! Call (270) 558-3996 or visit our website at www.purchaseear.com to learn more.

Let us help you hear what you’ve been missing!

Hearing

Make Your Hearing A Priority In The New Year

Did you know that on average, individuals with hearing loss wait 7 years to seek help for their hearing? With precious moments lost, we at Purchase Ear Technology in Paducah are energized each New Year as customers make their hearing health a priority. We’re excited to help you start your journey and be there every step of the way!

We know accepting hearing loss can be difficult.  This is one of many reasons why we’re so passionate about educating each individual about hearing health. We’re hearing from our customers and providers that they are making it their resolution to HEAR better in 2025.   You should make the same resolution!

Remember, today’s hearing aids are not what your grandfather or even your mother wore. The leading-edge digital technology helps to reduce background noise and focus on exactly what you want to hear. These advanced little pieces of technology are designed to be inconspicuous and many are nearly invisible.

Are you ready to start your journey to better hearing?  Purchase Ear Technology in Paducah is here to help.  Give us a call today to schedule an appointment at (270) 558-3996 or visit our office located at 2008 Broadway, Paducah, KY  42001.

New Year, New Hearing, New You

6 Tips For Hearing Better In 2025

Your world is filled with sound — sounds you don’t want to miss. There’s your grandchild’s virtual piano recital, your favorite sci-fi marathon, or a phone conversation with an old friend. As the new year nears, refresh your connections to the people and moments that matter with these six simple tips for better hearing.

1. Tap Into Technology

Today’s technology can turn any alerting sound into a visual or vibratory cue, allowing doorbells, smoke alarms, and more to alert you with flashing lights or vibrations. Smartphones can stream audio directly to hearing aids and can also caption videos or flash visual alerts for incoming calls. Another innovation: We now have hearing aid technology that can translate other languages.

2. Get in the Loop

Did you know your favorite public places — museums, theaters, churches, and more — may have a hearing loop installed around their venues, letting you receive enhanced audio by wirelessly connecting through the T-coil setting on your hearing aid? Look for the hearing-loop logo at participating sites.

3. Protect Your Assets

Some 466 million people worldwide, including 34 million children, have hearing loss, and excess noise is one of the most preventable causes. Whether you’re enjoying New Year fireworks, hunting with firearms, riding snowmobiles, or otherwise encountering loud sounds, look out for your hearing health by limiting your exposure and wearing quality hearing protection.

4. Try Captioned Calls

Trouble hearing phone conversations? You may qualify for a landline phone that shows the spoken words of the person you’re talking to. In participating states, the telephone is free if a qualified hearing care professional certifies your hearing loss and need for the phone. Plus, it works with hearing aids. All you need is a standard phone line and an internet connection. And with the associated app, you can use the service with compatible smartphones and tablets, too!

5. Work It Out

It’s no secret that obesity can put you at risk for strokes, heart disease, diabetes, and other serious health problems, but did you know it’s linked to hearing loss, too? Resolving to get even healthier and more fit in 2025 will help reduce the risk of excess weight, a problem that can tax your hearing and affect total health.

6. Schedule a Hearing Check

It’s easy to make better hearing a family affair by scheduling hearing evaluations for the whole household. How often? At least once a year, just as you would for your eyes or teeth. Staying on top of your hearing health helps catch any potential changes or problems early, which is important for overall wellness.

We’re here to help you and your loved ones hear your best!

Give us a call at (270) 558-3996 to schedule a hearing test.  Purchase Ear Technology is conveniently located at 2008 Broadway St in Paducah KY.  At Purchase Ear Technology, you are more than a patient.  YOU ARE FAMILY!

Hear Everything At The Christmas Dinner Table

Many of us look forward to Christmas for the chance to spend time with family and friends.  Most holiday dinners make for a noisy environment with many different conversations going on at the same time.   There is often sounds of plates being shuffled around, silverware clinging together, a kitchen fan humming in the background, and maybe some children running around the house laughing and playing.

Holiday parties with friends and family can feel overwhelming for loved ones with hearing loss. People with untreated hearing loss have reported feeling nervous to speak up in group settings out of fear that they may hear the wrong thing or not respond appropriately. Feeling lonely or isolated during a time of celebration with people you care about can make the holidays much less enjoyable. If you are concerned that you or someone at your Christmas table could be experiencing hearing loss, you may find the tips below helpful for making the most of this season.

TIPS THIS HOLIDAY:

  1. Wear your hearing aids. If you do not have hearing aids, it is recommended that you have a hearing screening by a professional and ask if they could help your hearing loss.
  2. Cut down the background noises like music, kitchen fan, or a TV.
  3. Remind your friends and family of your hearing loss so they know to speak up for you.
  4. Make sure you face people when you are speaking with them.

If you want to hear more this holiday, Purchase Ear Technology located at 2008 Broadway St in Paducah,  KY is here to help!  Give us a call at (270) 558-3996 to schedule an appointment.   At Purchase Ear Technology, Tim Harmon and his staff will make sure you know that you are more than a patient.  YOU ARE FAMILY!

Hearing Aids Paducah

8 Tips For Better Communication With Hearing Loss

Hearing loss can make conversations more challenging. Often we must rely on our conversation partners to practice communication best practices like facing us when they speak and providing context before changing topics. But communication is a two-way street. There are also many things we can do to enhance our ability to have successful and productive interactions with others. By following some simple rules of thumb, we can put ourselves in a better position to hear and communicate as best as is possible.  Below you will find 8 tips:

1. Inform Others About Your Hearing Loss

Don’t be shy about disclosing your hearing loss. People cannot help you if they do not know you are struggling. I make a habit of announcing my hearing loss at the start of any group meetings or retreats. It is easy to do as part of the introductions. This way I get the information out and avoid any awkwardness later when I ask someone to repeat themselves or grab a seat in the front row so I can hear the speaker better.

2. Be Specific About Your Needs

Let others know what they can do to help you hear your best. The more specific you are in your instructions — I need you to sit on my left side or please face me when you speak to me — the more likely you are to get good results. Be prepared to remind people what they can do to help. Since hearing loss is not visible, people sometimes quickly forget that you have trouble hearing.

3. Put Others At Ease

If you appear comfortable with your hearing loss, others will be as well. Let people know that they can ask you about it. I often joke with people saying, “If you say something to me and I don’t answer, or if I look at you like you have two heads, please don’t think I am rude, it is probably because I didn’t hear you.” Humor often makes people more forgiving of a social faux pas or two, and more willing to try again to engage you in conversation.

4. Stay Informed

Since context is so important in following conversations, try to stay abreast of current news and social happenings. It is easier to understand a new name (of a country or a celebrity) if you have seen it written about recently. This can be especially important if you are traveling to a different country where the names of historical figures and landmarks are less familiar to you.

5. Maintain Good Energy

Hearing takes extraordinary concentration for those with hearing loss so it is important to approach communication situations as well rested and alert as possible. Eat healthy food, exercise regularly, and be sure to get enough sleep. Also, don’t be afraid to take breaks from communication if your energy is lagging.

6. Interrupt for Clarification In Moderation

If you miss a word or two of a story, listen a little bit longer before jumping in with “What?” You may be able to piece together what was said after another sentence or two. This does not apply at the doctor, or in another situation where full knowledge is imperative, but in social situations, not following every detail is probably ok some of the time. Also, when asking for clarification, say what you think you heard to minimize what the speaker needs to repeat.

7. Use Non-Verbal Clues To Guide Your Communication Partner

Cupping your hand behind your ear is a good way to ask the speaker to raise his voice without interrupting the flow of the conversation. Leaning closer to somebody can also indicate that you are having trouble hearing them.

8. Go With The Flow

Manage your expectations. In certain situations, hearing every word is just not possible, but try to be grateful for what you can hear. Keep your sense of humor ready for the inevitable mishearings. Some of them can be quite funny if you let them.

If you are experiencing signs of hearing loss, Tim Harmon and our staff at Purchase Ear Technology would like to help.  Give Purchase Ear Technology of Paducah a call at (270) 558-3996 to schedule an appointment or stop by our office located at 2008 Broadway, Paducah, KY  42001.  At Purchase Ear Technology, you are more than a patient.  YOU ARE FAMILY!

Tim Harmon Hearing Aid Specialist

Why Choose a Local Audiologist Over an Online Hearing Test?

In today’s digital age, it seems like you can get just about anything online—including a hearing test. While online hearing tests may seem convenient, they can’t match the personalized, comprehensive care that you get from a local audiologist. At Purchase Ear Technology, we believe that your hearing health is too important to trust to an online tool that might not give you an accurate or thorough evaluation. Here’s why choosing a local audiologist is always the better option for your hearing care.

1. Accurate, Professional Testing

While online hearing tests can be a fun starting point, they simply can’t offer the same level of precision and accuracy as an in-person assessment with an audiologist. Local audiologists use state-of-the-art equipment in a controlled environment to conduct a comprehensive hearing evaluation. This includes pure-tone audiometry, speech testing, and tympanometry to assess the health of your ears and the extent of any hearing loss.

Online hearing tests often rely on your own headphones or speakers, which can introduce distortion or inaccuracies. A local audiologist can test your hearing at different frequencies and volumes to pinpoint any issues and tailor a treatment plan accordingly.

2. Personalized Care and Expertise

Hearing is complex, and each person’s needs are unique. A local audiologist doesn’t just test your hearing—they take the time to understand your lifestyle, concerns, and specific hearing challenges. Whether you’re having trouble hearing in noisy environments, struggling with conversations in large groups, or dealing with tinnitus, a local audiologist can offer tailored solutions that online tools can’t provide.

With years of education and clinical experience, audiologists like those at Purchase Ear Technology know the nuances of hearing health and can answer all of your questions. We’ll explain your results in detail, help you choose the best hearing aid or treatment, and make sure that everything fits your individual needs.

3. Customized Hearing Solutions

Online hearing tests don’t have the ability to offer customized solutions. When you visit a local audiologist, we can recommend and fit hearing aids that are specifically suited to your hearing loss and preferences. Whether you need a small, discreet device or one with advanced features like Bluetooth connectivity, we will ensure your hearing aids are the right fit for your life.

At Purchase Ear Technology, we offer hearing aids from top manufacturers and work closely with you to adjust settings for maximum comfort and sound clarity. Additionally, our team is here for ongoing support, ensuring that your hearing aids continue to perform well and stay in top condition.

4. Follow-Up and Ongoing Support

Hearing aids and hearing health require ongoing care. When you choose a local audiologist, you’re not just getting a one-time test—you’re gaining a long-term partner in your hearing health. Local audiologists, like Tim Harmon at Purchase Ear Technology, provide follow-up appointments to make sure your hearing aids are working properly, offer repairs when needed, and make adjustments as your hearing needs change.

Online tests don’t offer any of this ongoing care. Once you receive the results, you’re left on your own to figure out the next steps. With a local audiologist, you’ll receive continuous support and guidance as you navigate your hearing journey.

5. Trust and Accountability

When you visit a local audiologist, you know exactly who you’re working with. You can build a relationship with someone who understands your hearing health needs and has your best interests in mind. At Purchase Ear Technology, we are deeply invested in the hearing health of our community, and our reputation is built on trust and integrity.

Online hearing tests, on the other hand, are often offered by anonymous companies without a personal connection to your care. There’s no one to follow up with if you have questions or issues with the test results. With a local audiologist, you’re guaranteed personalized care and accountability, which gives you peace of mind knowing you’re in capable hands.

6. Supporting Local Businesses

By choosing a local audiologist, you’re supporting small businesses that care about the well-being of their community. Local audiologists like those at Purchase Ear Technology are dedicated to serving their neighbors and ensuring that people have access to high-quality hearing care. We’re here for the long haul, and your trust in us helps keep our practice thriving and focused on delivering excellent service.

Final Thoughts

Your hearing is an essential part of your overall well-being, and it deserves more than just a quick online test. A local audiologist offers a personalized, thorough approach to hearing care that ensures you get the best possible outcome. Whether you’re concerned about your hearing, need a hearing aid fitting, or simply want to maintain good ear health, we at Purchase Ear Technology are here to help every step of the way.

Don’t settle for anything less than the best when it comes to your hearing health—choose Tim Harmon at Purchase Ear Technology and experience the difference in care!

Contact us today by calling (270) 558-3996 to schedule your comprehensive hearing evaluation or learn more about how we can help you improve your hearing health!  At Purchase Ear Technology, you are more than a patient.  YOU ARE FAMILY!

Hear Everything At The Thanksgiving Dinner Table This Year

Many of us look forward to Thanksgiving gatherings and for the chance to spend time with family and friends.  Most Thanksgiving dinners make for a noisy environment with many different conversations going on at the same time.   There is often sounds of plates being shuffled around, silverware clinging together, a kitchen fan humming in the background, and maybe some children running around the house laughing and playing.

Holiday parties with friends and family can feel overwhelming for loved ones with hearing loss. People with untreated hearing loss have reported feeling nervous to speak up in group settings out of fear that they may hear the wrong thing or not respond appropriately. Feeling lonely or isolated during a time of celebration with people you care about can make the holidays much less enjoyable. If you are concerned that you or someone at your Thanksgiving table could be experiencing hearing loss, you may find the tips below helpful for making the most of Thanksgiving this season.

TIPS THIS HOLIDAY:

  1. Wear your hearing aids. If you do not have hearing aids, it is recommended that you have a hearing screening by a professional and ask if they could help your hearing loss.
  2. Cut down the background noises like music, kitchen fan, or a TV.
  3. Remind your friends and family of your hearing loss so they know to speak up for you.
  4. Make sure you face people when you are speaking with them.

If you want to hear more this holiday, Purchase Ear Technology located at 2008 Broadway St in Paducah,  KY is here to help!  Give us a call at (270) 558-3996 to schedule an appointment.   At Purchase Ear Technology, Tim Harmon and his staff will make sure you know that you are more than a patient.  YOU ARE FAMILY!