Here's help for hearing impaired
New technology improves audio aids

Local Miracle-Ear outlets in the Simi Valley area want to amplify a silent problem- hearingimpaired people who avoid getting hearing aids. It's estimated that 80 percent of the 31.5 million hearing-impaired people in the United States could benefit from a hearing aid but don't have hone.

Hearing loss may come from infection, strokes, head injuries, some medicine, tumors, other medical problems or even too much ear wax. It can also result from repeated exposure to very loud noise, such as music, power tools or jet engines. Changes in the way the ear works as a person ages can also affect hearing, according to the U.S. Food and Drug administration.

People may need a hearing aid if the following situations occur.

•People ask them to lower their voice when talking to them.

•They have the TV or radio volume louder than other people do.

•They have a difficult time following a conversation where there is background noise.

•They can't hear a noise if they're not facing the direction of the source.

•They hear better out of one ear.

•They keep hearing ringing or hissing background noise.

•They can't hear certain sounds, such as high musical notes or a slow drip.

The best way to determine if someone needs a hearing aid is to consult with a licenses hearing healthcare professional and get a hearing test.

Many people don't realize the significant technology advances in hearing aids, reducing their size and making them less conspicuous and more comfortable.

•Behind the ear. This kind of hearing aid fits behind the ear and carries sound to the ear through a custom ear mold. They are used for mild-to-severe hearing loss.

•Open canal. This behindtheear style is very small, making it almost invisible on the ear. Suitable for mild-to-moderate loss.

•In the ear. These are custom made to fit the outer ear. They are useful for mild-to-moderate loss.

•In the ear canal. This aid is custommade to fit in the ear canal and are almost impossible to see. They help with all but the worst hearing loss.