Category: Uncategorized

Happy New Year from Tim Harmon and the staff at Purchase Ear Technology in Paducah, KY.  As we roll into a New Year, we would like to offer a few tips for our friends who wear hearing aids.

1. Schedule a Hearing Checkup: Kick off the New Year by scheduling a comprehensive hearing checkup with Tim Harmon at Purchase Ear Technology. Regular checkups ensure that your hearing aids are functioning optimally and that any adjustments or maintenance can be addressed promptly.
2. Update Hearing Aid Technology: Consider upgrading your hearing aid technology to take advantage of the latest advancements.  At Purchase Ear Technology, we can guide you through options that may enhance your listening experience, offering improved clarity and connectivity features.
3. Establish a Cleaning Routine: Make it a resolution to keep your hearing aids clean and well-maintained. Regular cleaning helps prevent wax buildup and ensures clear sound transmission. We can provide guidance on the proper cleaning techniques and tools for your specific hearing aids.
4. Protect Your Hearing in Loud Environments: Resolve to protect your hearing in noisy environments by using ear protection or adjusting your hearing aid settings accordingly. Tim can help you customize your hearing aids to accommodate different environments, ensuring optimal performance in various sound conditions.
5. Explore Assistive Listening Devices: Start the year by exploring assistive listening devices that complement your hearing aids. We can introduce you to devices like captioned telephones or TV streaming accessories that enhance your overall communication and entertainment experience.
6. Practice Communication Strategies: Enhance your communication skills by practicing strategies to improve understanding in challenging situations. Tim and our trained staff can provide tips on effective communication techniques and offer guidance on how to express your hearing needs to friends, family, and colleagues.

Wishing you a joyful and sonorous New Year from Tim Harmon at Purchase Ear Technology in Paducah, KY! If we can be of assistance to you in the New Year, please give us a call at (270) 558-3996.  At Purchase Ear Technology, you are more than a patient.  YOU ARE FAMILY.

It’s that time of year!  Holiday parties and family gatherings to be held!  If you have friends and family with hearing difficulty, we have some tips to make the holiday gatherings much more enjoyable for them.

Effective communication is the cornerstone of meaningful connections, yet it can pose unique challenges for individuals with hearing issues. Whether you’re interacting with friends, family, colleagues, or strangers, understanding and implementing communication strategies can make a significant difference. In this blog post, we’ll explore tips and techniques to foster better communication with those who have hearing impairments.

1. Face-to-Face Communication:

When engaging in conversation, position yourself in a way that allows the person with hearing issues to see your face clearly. Facial expressions and lip movements provide important contextual cues that enhance understanding.

2. Maintain Eye Contact:

Eye contact establishes a connection and helps individuals with hearing impairments focus on visual cues. This simple yet powerful gesture can improve the overall quality of communication.

3. Speak Clearly and at a Moderate Pace:

Enunciate your words clearly, but avoid exaggerated lip movements. Speaking at a moderate pace allows the listener to follow the conversation more easily, facilitating better comprehension.

4. Reduce Background Noise:

Background noise can be a significant hindrance to communication for those with hearing impairments. Choose quiet environments for conversations, and if possible, minimize background noise to create a more conducive setting.

5. Use Gestures and Body Language:

Incorporate gestures and body language to support your verbal communication. These visual cues can help convey meaning and provide additional context to the conversation.

6. Consider Assistive Devices:

Explore the use of assistive devices, such as hearing aids or cochlear implants, which can significantly improve the hearing experience for individuals with hearing impairments. Be respectful and understanding of their preferences regarding the use of such devices.

7. Be Patient and Allow Time:

Give individuals with hearing issues the time they need to process information and respond. Avoid interrupting or finishing their sentences, as this can be frustrating and may disrupt the flow of communication.

We hope this tips will help make the holidays more enjoyable for the entire family.  If you or a loved one are experiencing difficulty in hearing, give Tim Harmon and his staff at Purchase Ear Technology in Paducah, KY a call by dialing (270) 558-3996.  We are here to help!  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!

Communication is a fundamental aspect of human connection, and when it comes to interacting with individuals experiencing hearing loss, a little understanding and consideration go a long way. Whether you’re a family member, friend, colleague, or healthcare professional, adopting effective communication strategies can greatly enhance inclusivity and build stronger connections. Tim Harmon at Purchase Ear Technology in Paducah, KY offers these tips and strategies for communicating with compassion and clarity.

**1. Gain Their Attention Before Speaking:

Before starting a conversation, make sure you have the individual’s attention. A gentle tap on the shoulder, a wave, or a visual cue can help them know that you’re about to speak.

**2. Maintain Eye Contact and Face Them:

Position yourself so that your face is well-lit, and maintain eye contact during the conversation. This allows the person to pick up on facial expressions and lip movements, aiding in better understanding.

**3. Speak Clearly and at a Moderate Pace:

Enunciate your words clearly and avoid speaking too quickly. While it’s essential not to exaggerate your speech, a moderate pace allows for better lip-reading and comprehension.

**4. Minimize Background Noise:

Reduce background noise as much as possible during conversations. Move to a quieter area or turn off unnecessary appliances or devices to create an environment that facilitates clearer communication.

**5. Rephrase Instead of Repeating:

If the person doesn’t understand something, try rephrasing the sentence rather than repeating it verbatim. Different wording may provide clarity and enhance comprehension.

**6. Use Gestures and Facial Expressions:

Incorporate gestures and facial expressions to support your verbal communication. Non-verbal cues can provide additional context and convey emotions, making the conversation more accessible.

**7. Ask About Preferred Communication Strategies:

Everyone is different, and individuals with hearing loss may have preferences for certain communication methods. Ask them about their preferred strategies, such as written notes, texting, or using a communication app.

**8. Be Patient and Allow Time for Processing:

Understand that processing spoken information might take a bit longer for someone with hearing loss. Be patient, and avoid interrupting. Give them the time they need to fully grasp the conversation.

**9. Educate Others in the Conversation:

If you’re in a group setting, take a moment to inform others about the best ways to communicate with the person experiencing hearing loss. This fosters a supportive environment and encourages inclusivity.

**10. Stay Engaged and Responsive:

Actively participate in the conversation, showing that you are engaged and interested. This not only aids in communication but also contributes to a sense of belonging and connection.

Conclusion:

Effective communication with individuals experiencing hearing loss is about creating an environment of understanding and respect. By implementing these tips and strategies, we can all contribute to a more inclusive and compassionate society where everyone feels heard and valued. Remember, small adjustments in communication can make a significant difference in fostering better connections with those experiencing hearing challenges.

At Purchase Ear Technology in Paducah, KY, we help improve people’s hearing every day.  If we can help you or a loved one, give us a call at (270) 558-3996.  Purchase Ear Technology is conveniently located at 2008 Broadway in Paducah, KY.  At Purchase Ear Technology, you are more than a patient.  YOU ARE FAMILY!

Finding the right hearing aid is crucial for addressing individual hearing needs and ensuring a comfortable fit. Here are four tips to help you in the process:

1. Get a Professional Hearing Assessment: Before selecting a hearing aid, it’s essential to undergo a comprehensive hearing assessment conducted by a qualified audiologist or hearing healthcare professional like Tim Harmon at Purchase Ear Technology in Paducah, KY. This evaluation will help determine the specific nature and degree of your hearing loss, providing valuable information for selecting the most suitable hearing aid type and configuration.
2. Consider Your Lifestyle and Preferences: Different hearing aids cater to various lifestyles and preferences. Consider your daily activities, work environment, and social interactions. If you lead an active lifestyle, you may want a hearing aid with advanced noise reduction features. Additionally, think about the size, style, and aesthetics that align with your preferences, as this will impact your overall satisfaction and comfort with the device.
3. Understand the Technology Options: Hearing aids come with a range of technological features. Stay informed about the available options and their functionalities. Some hearing aids offer Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to stream audio directly from your smartphone or other devices. Others may have directional microphones, adaptive noise reduction, and feedback cancellation. Understanding these features can help you choose a device that aligns with your specific needs and enhances your overall hearing experience.
4. Trial Periods and Adjustments: Many reputable hearing aid providers offer trial periods that allow you to test the device in real-world situations. Take advantage of these trial periods to assess how well the hearing aid meets your needs and comfort preferences. Be prepared for an adjustment period, as your brain needs time to adapt to the new sounds. During this time, work closely with your audiologist to make any necessary adjustments to the settings for optimal performance and comfort.

Remember that finding the right hearing aid is a personalized process, and it’s crucial to communicate openly with your audiologist about your experiences and any concerns you may have. Regular follow-up appointments can help fine-tune the settings and ensure that your hearing aid continues to meet your evolving needs.

If you are in need of new hearing aids, repairs or perhaps you just want to have your hearing tested, give us a call at Purchase Ear Technology at (270) 558-3996.  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!

Having your hearing tested annually is essential for various reasons, as it helps ensure your auditory health and overall well-being. Here are four compelling reasons to have your hearing tested on a yearly basis:

1. Early Detection of Hearing Loss: Regular hearing tests can detect hearing loss in its early stages, often before you notice any significant symptoms. Identifying hearing loss early allows for prompt intervention and treatment, which can help prevent the condition from worsening.
2. Improved Quality of Life: Untreated hearing loss can significantly impact your quality of life. It can lead to social isolation, communication difficulties, and even cognitive decline. By getting an annual hearing test, you can address any hearing issues promptly and enjoy a higher quality of life with improved communication and social interactions.
3. Preventing Further Damage: If you have identified hearing loss, an annual hearing test can help monitor the progression of your condition. It enables your healthcare provider to adjust your treatment plan or hearing aids as necessary to prevent further damage and ensure your hearing remains as functional as possible.
4. Personalized Solutions: Each person’s hearing is unique, and a yearly hearing test allows for the customization of solutions that cater to your specific needs. Whether it’s hearing aids, cochlear implants, or other assistive devices, a regular hearing evaluation ensures you receive the most appropriate and effective treatment for your individual circumstances.

In summary, annual hearing tests are crucial for early detection, improved quality of life, prevention of further damage, and personalized solutions to address hearing-related issues. Taking these tests can help you maintain good auditory health and overall well-being.

If you have questions about this post or you would like to schedule a hearing test, give Purchase Ear Technology a call at (270) 558-3996.  Tim Harmon and his staff at Purchase Ear Technology are conveniently located at 2008 Broadway St in Paducah, KY.  At Purchase Ear Technology, you are more than a patient.  You are FAMILY!

We need to challenge the existing prejudices associated with hearing loss, as it profoundly affects the quality of life and mental well-being. Extensive research demonstrates that individuals with even a mild hearing impairment face twice the risk of developing dementia compared to those with normal hearing, and this risk escalates with the severity of hearing loss. A six-year study at Johns Hopkins revealed that cognitive decline in older adults with hearing loss occurs 30%-40% faster than in those with typical hearing, leading to significant cognitive impairment occurring 3.2 years earlier. Furthermore, hearing loss is linked to a higher incidence of heart disease, diabetes, and depression.

WHO experiences hearing loss? Hearing loss is a widespread issue affecting 50 million Americans today. This includes one out of every five teenagers and 60% of our veterans returning from foreign conflicts. Remarkably, more people suffer from hearing loss than the combined total of those with diabetes, Alzheimer’s, autism, and osteoporosis. Despite this prevalence, hearing loss often receives insufficient attention within the national healthcare discourse, primarily because it isn’t life-threatening. While true, hearing loss can erode one’s quality of life through isolation, depression, early-onset dementia, and various other health complications.

WHAT is the stigma associated with hearing loss? Defining the precise nature of the stigma surrounding hearing loss can be challenging. Are people with hearing loss perceived as old, unintelligent, unattractive, uncool, or not worth the extra effort required for communication? It’s unclear what drives this stigma, but many of us with hearing loss feel its effects. Of course, none of these stigmas are accurate. Individuals with hearing loss span all age groups, from newborns to the elderly, and in the era of pervasive noise pollution, many new cases of hearing loss occur in teenagers.

The stigma surrounding hearing loss is perplexing, given that there is no negative perception associated with wearing glasses or using a wheelchair or other assistive devices. Perhaps this is because hearing loss is invisible, making it easier for others to assume that a person with hearing loss is inattentive or rude when they respond inappropriately to a question. In reality, the individual likely didn’t hear what was said.

WHY is it crucial to dispel the stigma of hearing loss? Due to this stigma, many individuals who could benefit from hearing loss treatment remain untreated. According to the NIDCD, among adults aged 70 and older who could benefit from hearing aids, fewer than one in three (30 percent) have ever used them. An even smaller percentage of adults aged 20 to 69 (approximately 16 percent) who could benefit from hearing aids have ever used them. Given the serious health consequences of untreated hearing loss, this situation needs to change.

Current legislation contributes to the stigma surrounding hearing loss. For example, while most health insurance providers in the United States cover the cost of eyeglasses, they do not cover hearing aids, discouraging many individuals from seeking treatment. Until hearing loss is recognized as a serious health concern and suitable accommodations are provided for those with hearing loss, the stigma will persist, and people with hearing loss will continue to avoid seeking the help they require.

HOW can you help eliminate the stigma of hearing loss?

1. Include hearing screenings in your annual medical checkup and encourage friends and family to do the same.
2. If you have hearing loss, seek treatment. Consult an audiologist to explore hearing aid options or discuss the issue with your primary care physician.
3. If you have hearing aids, use them consistently. Adjusting to their settings may take time, but they can make a significant difference.
4. Speak openly about your hearing loss. Your openness will gradually reduce the stigma for others.
5. Promote the value of hearing and encourage hearing protection by offering earplugs or advocating for lower volume levels.
6. Urge your elected representatives to prioritize hearing loss as a crucial aspect of the national healthcare agenda.

If you have questions or would like more information on hearing loss treatment, give us a call at Purchase Ear Technology – (270) 558-3996.   Tim Harmon and his staff are ready to help you.  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!

Experiencing hearing loss often leads individuals to seek the guidance of their primary care physician as their initial point of contact. General practitioners possess a wide range of medical knowledge but may have limitations when it comes to addressing hearing-related concerns. General practitioners tend to handle diverse patient needs, often necessitating referrals for specialized hearing health matters. Nevertheless, dedicated hearing specialists are equipped to tackle hearing-related issues, offering a distinct advantage in this field.

Hearing Specialists vs. General Practitioners A hearing specialist, often referred to as an audiologist, is a medical professional specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of ear-related conditions. Audiologists have an extensive understanding of:

1. The underlying causes of hearing loss.
2. A variety of conditions affecting the outer, middle, and inner ear.
3. The precise fitting of hearing aids.
4. Management of issues like tinnitus and balance disorders. Hearing specialists invest significant time in patient education and guiding individuals through hearing loss challenges. Conversely, general practitioners primarily handle common health concerns and might address issues like ear infections or provide basic counseling when time permits, but they lack specialization in ear-related problems.

Accurate Diagnosis Audiologists, like Tim Harmon at Purchase Ear Technology in Paducah,  offer precise diagnoses, as they possess the tools and techniques necessary to conduct thorough examinations of your ears and measure hearing issues. They can perform assessments, including:

• Evaluating inner ear function.
• Analyzing brainstem responses to audible stimuli.
• Assessing speech comprehension.
• Gauging middle ear function.
• Determining hearing sensitivity.
• Classifying the type and degree of hearing loss.

After visiting an audiologist, you leave with a comprehensive understanding of your hearing health, including what’s functioning properly, what isn’t, and the most appropriate treatment for your condition.

Personalized Treatments –  Selecting an audiologist over a general practitioner provides the advantage of receiving highly personalized treatment. Hearing specialists can recommend hearing aids and therapies tailored to your specific ear condition, considering factors such as aesthetics, budget, and your unique listening requirements. This personalized approach increases the likelihood of receiving a treatment plan or device that effectively addresses your needs. Additionally, audiologists offer ongoing fine-tuning and adjustments to ensure your device operates optimally.

Immediate Earwax Removal – Audiologists can promptly address earwax buildup, eliminating the need for referrals. They possess the necessary tools for safe earwax removal, restoring your hearing without delay. Attempting to remove earwax using cotton swabs or picks can push debris further into the ear, worsening hearing and potentially causing infection. Audiologists use earwax removal solutions and specialized tools for safe and effective extraction.

Assistance with Balance Issues – Another notable benefit of consulting a hearing specialist instead of a general practitioner is their expertise in addressing balance problems. These professionals can help manage conditions like vertigo, which affect the balance mechanisms in the middle ear. They can also assist with issues related to travel, such as ear discomfort during flights or after swimming. The interconnected nature of hearing and balance health makes the audiologist’s expertise invaluable in addressing balance concerns associated with hearing conditions.

Enhanced Follow-Up Care – Audiologists often provide more comprehensive follow-up care, ensuring that your treatment progresses as expected and that you effectively manage your hearing loss. During follow-up appointments, audiologists:

• Verify that hearing devices are correctly fitted and delivering the intended benefits.
• Assess the effectiveness of tinnitus treatments and measure reductions in perceived sounds.
• Offer various ear protection options.
• Refer patients to specialists for issues like temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ).
• Provide resources to aid in the management of treatment.

Multiple follow-up visits foster a closer patient-audiologist relationship, making individuals feel more at ease discussing hearing health issues and seeking advice over time.

If you have questions or if you are looking for a Paducah Area Hearing Specialist, call Purchase Ear Technology at (270) 558-3996.  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!

Wearing hearing aids is essential for several reasons, and their importance cannot be overstated in enhancing the quality of life for individuals with hearing loss. Here are compelling reasons from Tim Harmon at Purchase Ear Technology, gives for why wearing hearing aids is crucial:

1. Improved Communication: Hearing aids help bridge the communication gap that hearing loss creates. They amplify sounds, making it easier to understand speech, engage in conversations, and connect with loved ones. This improved communication fosters better relationships and reduces feelings of isolation.
2. Enhanced Safety: Hearing aids are not only essential for social interactions but also for safety. They allow individuals to hear important auditory cues in their environment, such as sirens, alarms, and approaching vehicles, which can be vital for their safety.
3. Mental Health Benefits: Untreated hearing loss has been linked to various mental health issues, including depression and anxiety. By wearing hearing aids, individuals can regain their ability to participate in social activities and enjoy life, reducing the risk of these mental health concerns.
4. Cognitive Health: Recent research has shown a strong connection between untreated hearing loss and cognitive decline, including an increased risk of dementia. Wearing hearing aids can help individuals stay mentally sharp by providing auditory stimulation and reducing the cognitive load caused by straining to hear.
5. Professional Success: Effective communication is crucial in the workplace. Wearing hearing aids can improve job performance, enhance relationships with colleagues and clients, and open up career opportunities that might otherwise be limited by hearing loss.
6. Preservation of Relationships: Hearing loss can strain relationships as it often leads to miscommunication and frustration. By wearing hearing aids, individuals can maintain strong connections with friends and family, preventing the breakdown of relationships due to communication difficulties.
7. Quality of Life: Hearing aids enable people to enjoy a fuller and more vibrant life. They can participate in social activities, enjoy music and entertainment, and engage in hobbies and interests without feeling left out or isolated.
8. Prevention of Further Hearing Loss: Untreated hearing loss can worsen over time. Wearing hearing aids can help prevent further deterioration of hearing abilities by providing the auditory stimulation that the brain needs to maintain its functions.
9. Customizable Solutions: Modern hearing aids come in various styles and are highly customizable to meet individual needs. They can adapt to different listening environments, making them versatile and effective in various situations.

In conclusion, wearing hearing aids is essential not only for addressing the physical aspect of hearing loss but also for improving emotional well-being, mental health, and overall quality of life. By seeking professional help and embracing hearing aids, individuals with hearing loss can regain the joy of hearing and actively engage in the world around them.

If you have questions or need to help with your hearing, give us a call at Purchase Ear Technology in Paducah, KY 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!