0

Other Product Blogs

hearing aid charger with Hearing aids for hearing loss

Navigating the Challenge of Finding the Right Hearing Aid Charger: Our Expert Assistance Makes It Easy

November 18, 2023

Navigating the Maze of Hearing Aid Chargers: A Somewhat Comprehensive Guide

At Hears Hearing & Hearables, we have recognized an unforeseen demand for the acquisition of a hearing aid charger. Particularly for those who are frequently on the move or require replacements for damaged chargers.

As an online membership-based store, our primary objective is to establish a transparent and ethically driven platform for hearing healthcare. We aim to connect our customers with a network of hearing healthcare providers who charge for services separately from the cost of the hearing aid itself. While our initial emphasis may not have been on chargers, we are grateful to those who have entrusted us with their charging needs. Leading us to identify and address this specific niche in the market.

In this blog post, we endeavor to provide a comprehensive review of how hearing aid chargers function. Our focus will be on guiding customers in selecting the correct charger for their specific hearing aid models. We appreciate the continued trust and support from our clientele and look forward to serving their hearing healthcare needs with diligence and expertise.

The Power Behind Hearing Aids: The Lithium-Ion Charger

In the realm of hearing aid technology, the power source is a critical component that directly influences performance and convenience.  At present, most modern hearing aids are equipped with rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. Offering users a more sustainable and cost-effective solution compared to traditional disposable batteries. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the world of lithium-ion chargers for hearing aids. Exploring their features, advantages, and tips for optimal use.

Lithium-Ion Batteries: A Game-Changer for Hearing Aids

Lithium-ion batteries have become the gold standard for many electronic devices, and hearing aids are no exception. These batteries are known for their high energy density, lightweight design, and longer lifespan compared to traditional batteries. The decision to incorporate lithium-ion technology into hearing aids has transformed the user experience. Providing a reliable and rechargeable power source.

The Lithium-Ion Charger: Features and Functions
  • Compact and Portable:

Lithium-ion chargers for hearing aids are designed to be compact and portable. Ensuring users can easily carry them wherever they go. This portability is especially beneficial for those who lead active lifestyles and need a reliable charging solution on the move.

  • Efficient Charging:

Lithium-ion chargers are designed for efficiency, providing a quick and reliable charging process. Users can expect shorter charging times compared to older battery technologies. Allowing them to spend less time waiting and more time enjoying the benefits of their hearing aids.

  • Smart Charging Technology:

Many lithium-ion chargers feature smart charging technology, which helps optimize the charging process. This technology often includes features such as overcharge protection. Ensuring that the battery is not subjected to excessive voltage, which can impact its lifespan.

  • Compatibility with Different Devices:

Lithium-ion chargers are typically designed to be versatile, compatible with various hearing aid models from the same manufacturer. This streamlines the user experience, as individuals can use a single charger for multiple devices.  Obviously this is not the case as new technology and features and shape of   the hearing aids change.   That leads us to the next section of this article on finding the right charger.

The Maze of Hearing Aid Chargers: We can help

Hearing aids have come a long way in recent years, with advancements in technology enhancing the quality of life for millions of people around the world. However, with these technological strides comes a challenge that many hearing aid users face—The multitude of chargers available on the market. In this blog post, we’ll explore the complexity of hearing aid chargers, the variety among different brands and generations, and offer some tips on navigating this tangled web.

The Charger Conundrum:

One might assume that a charger is a simple accessory. But in the world of hearing aids, it’s anything but straightforward. Every hearing aid manufacturer seems to have its own proprietary charger, adding a layer of complexity for users. What’s more, even within the same brand, different generations of hearing aid technology may require entirely different chargers.

Why the Variety?

The hearing aid industry is continually evolving, with companies striving to improve battery life, charging speed, and overall user experience. This drive for innovation, while beneficial in many ways, has led to a proliferation of unique chargers for each model and generation. Manufacturers design chargers to be optimized for specific devices, taking into consideration factors like battery type, voltage, and charging mechanism.

The Generation Gap:

It’s not uncommon for individuals to upgrade their hearing aids every few years to access the latest features and improvements in technology. However, what many users may not anticipate is that their new and improved hearing aids may come with a completely different charger than their previous models. This creates confusion and frustration, as users find themselves needing to adapt to a new charging routine.

A Picture Is Worth a Thousand Words:

One practical solution to the charger chaos is to provide users with a visual reference. Including images of chargers in user manuals and online resources can significantly aid in the identification and replacement process. This is especially crucial for users with older hearing aids, as chargers from more than five years ago might be challenging to find in stores or online.

When navigating the intricate world of hearing aid chargers, consider these helpful tips to ensure a seamless experience. Firstly, consult the user manual accompanying your hearing aids, as it serves as a valuable resource with information about the specific charger required, often accompanied by visual references. Explore online guides and resources offered by manufacturers on their official websites for comprehensive details regarding chargers and compatibility.

Don’t Hesitate to Ask for Help!

In cases of uncertainty, don’t hesitate to seek guidance from either the manufacturer’s customer support or our own. We understand that deciphering the right charger can be a confusing endeavor. So, we all should exercise patience in assisting one another. We genuinely appreciate your patience and kindness as we work together to ensure you find the appropriate charger for your particular hearing aid model.

Additionally, local hearing aid retailers and professionals can prove to be valuable allies in this journey. Drawing upon their expertise and experience with various chargers, they can offer insights to help you identify the charger that aligns perfectly with your specific needs. By incorporating these tips into your search, you can navigate the charger maze with confidence and make informed decisions tailored to your hearing aid requirements.

While the world of hearing aid chargers may seem like a confusing labyrinth. With a bit of patience and the right resources, users can successfully navigate the maze. As technology continues to advance, manufacturers may find ways to standardize charging solutions. But until then, understanding the charger landscape is essential for every hearing aid user. Remember, a picture of your charger is not just worth a thousand words; it could save you from a thousand headaches and some shipping charges.

Finally Tips for Optimal Use of Lithium-Ion Chargers·

  • Follow Manufacturer Guidelines

Always adhere to the charging guidelines provided by the hearing aid manufacturer. This includes information on charging times, recommended usage patterns, and any specific precautions.

  • Store in a Cool Dry Place

To maintain battery health, store the charger and hearing aids in a cool, dry place. Avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures, as this can impact battery performance.

  •  Regularly Check for Updates

Some manufacturers release firmware or software updates for their hearing aids and chargers. Regularly check for updates to ensure you are benefiting from the latest features and improvements.

  • Consider a Spare Charger!

For users who travel frequently or spend extended periods away from power sources, having a spare charger can be a practical solution. This ensures that your hearing aids are always ready for use.  Hence why we started this article.  Hears Hearing & Hearables is meeting a need in the hearing health care market in helping people with hearing aids find their charger.  We aren’t just in the hearing aid business; we tell our representatives we are in the business to meet our customer where they need help!  Thanks for reading! Cheers.

Hearing Loss Remote Control

Remote Controls Enhance Patient Satisfaction by Allowing Self-Adjustment of Hearing Aids

November 18, 2023

Empowering Hearing Aid Users: The Impact of Self-Remote-Control Features for Patient Satisfaction

Hearing aid remote controls are valuable devices designed to enhance the user experience for individuals with hearing impairments. These compact and user-friendly accessories offer a range of features that contribute to the overall convenience and effectiveness of hearing aid use.

Easy to Use Remote Controls

One of the primary benefits of hearing aid remote controls is the ease with which users can adjust settings on their hearing devices. Many hearing aids come with a variety of settings to accommodate different environments and listening conditions. The remote control allows users to discreetly and quickly make adjustments to volume, program settings, and other parameters. Without the need to fiddle with small buttons or switches on the hearing aids themselves. This is especially advantageous in situations where immediate adjustments are necessary. Such as in noisy environments or sudden changes in acoustic surroundings.

An Example of the Use of a Remote Control by a Hearing Aid User

In a bustling conference hall, one of our patients, a seasoned event planning professional, recently recounted a noteworthy experience with her hearing aid remote control. Faced with a challenging auditory environment marked by overlapping conversations, Jane said she sneakily pulled out her remote to optimize her hearing aid settings.  She said the use of the remote and the change of the program was beneficial.  She said it was more discreet than pulling out her smartphone and opening up an app.  In sharing this account, Jane underscored the pivotal role that the hearing aid remote played in enhancing her situational awareness. Illustrating the practical benefits of such technology in demanding professional settings.

Hearing Aid Remote Control can often offer Streaming

In addition to basic controls, some advanced hearing aid remote controls offer additional functionalities. Such as the ability to stream audio directly from compatible devices. This feature allows users to wirelessly connect to smartphones, TVs, and other audio sources. Providing a seamless and customized listening experience. Streaming capabilities can significantly enhance the enjoyment of various forms of entertainment, as well as improve communication in phone conversations or during video calls.

An Example of the Use of Streaming to Hearing aids using a Remote Control

During a routine check-up one of our clients, an avid podcast enthusiast, enthusiastically shared her newfound joy with us.  She was so excited about how the streaming capabilities of her hearing aid remote had transformed her daily routine. The client vividly described the pleasure of wirelessly connecting her hearing aids to her favorite podcasts. Immersing herself in a world of story telling directly into her hearing aids that are adjusted for her hearing loss.  The streaming remote, she emphasized, not only provided a seamless and high-quality listening experience but also made her daily activities more enjoyable. As our patient spoke animatedly about the newfound convenience, I noted again the positive impact of modern hearing aid technology on her and others quality of life and overall satisfaction with the devices.

Patient Satisfaction Improved

Furthermore, hearing aid remote controls contribute to improved patient satisfaction by empowering users to have greater control over their listening experience. This level of control can enhance overall communication and engagement, leading to better outcomes in various aspects of daily life.

Research in audiology and hearing healthcare has consistently demonstrated the positive correlation between patient satisfaction and the ability to control their own hearing aid settings. Numerous studies have explored the impact of user-controlled features. Features such as volume adjustments, program changes, and additional functionalities provided by remote controls and smartphone apps.

In summary, hearing aid remote controls are indispensable tools for those who have hearing aids and want a discreet way to adjust for various environments. Their convenience, versatility, and advanced features contribute to a more accessible and personalized hearing experience. Ultimately improving the quality of life for individuals with hearing impairments.

If you have a question about which remote control is best for your hearing aids, fill out a contact and we will help.

widex sound assist guide Widex hearing aid Accessories

Unlocking the Power of the Widex Sound Assist: A Comprehensive Guide

October 27, 2023

Widex Sound Assist: Your All-in-One Hearing Aid Companion

Widex, a prominent name in the world of hearing aids, has consistently strived to enhance the lives of those with hearing loss through innovative technologies and accessories. Over the years, they’ve introduced a variety of products designed to assist with listening in various situations. From TV and phone communication to background noise reduction, Widex has an accessory solution for everything. One of their popular devices, the Uni-Dex, significantly improved the listening experience but is sadly taken off the market.  Today, we delve into the latest offering from Widex, the Sound Assist. A versatile and feature-packed listening companion that’s sure to amaze you. Use our helpful Widex Sound Assist Guide to learn more about all the features it has to offer.

The All-in-One Sound Assist

The Widex Sound Assist is a remarkable three-in-one device that comes with a range of features that you might not even be aware of. It is an essential accessory for users of Widex hearing aids. Providing remote microphone capabilities, Bluetooth streaming, and a handy remote-control function, all in a single compact unit.

Pairing and Activation

Once you’ve successfully paired the Sound Assist with your Moment Sheer hearing aids, you’ll begin to discover its full potential. Pairing the Sound Assist to your hearing aids is a very simple steps.  To activate the remote microphone feature, all it takes is a quick push of the power button. Transforming this device into a remote mic.  Placing it near a sound source allows for direct streaming to your Moment hearing aids. It’s important to note that the Sound Assist is compatible with the Moment Sheer hearing aids.  It is not backward compatible and does not work with custom products at this time, Oct 2023.

Enhanced Hearing in Noise: Remote Microphone mode

One of the standout features of the Sound Assist is its ability to improve hearing in noisy environments. Imagine your partner wearing the microphone, and their speech is streamed directly to your hearing aids. Making it much easier to follow conversations in bustling surroundings.

Versatile Table Mic

In a noisy environment, you can lay the Sound Assist flat in microphone mode. Enabling it to pinpoint the direction of speech and stream it directly to your hearing aids. Further enhancing your hearing in challenging conditions.

Seamless Bluetooth Streaming

The Sound Assist can also function as a Bluetooth streamer. By putting the device into Bluetooth discovery mode and connecting it to your smartphone, you can easily stream audio from any Bluetooth source, such as your phone or tablet.

Convenient Remote Control

The Sound Assist offers remote control capabilities in both microphone and Bluetooth modes. Adjusting the volume, muting or unmuting, pausing music, and even skipping tracks that you don’t want to hear are all within your control. It’s an ideal solution for those who crave complete control over their listening experience.

Crystal-Clear Call Quality

According to feedback from our Widex representative, not only is it easy and sounds great to the user but the quality of calls on the other end while using the Sound Assist in Bluetooth mode is exceptional. The person the user is speaking to will experience improved clarity when using Sound Assist as your microphone.

Battery Considerations

As shared by the patient, it’s essential to use the correct charger plug wall adapter for the Sound Assist to avoid charging problems and maximize battery life. This is an important point to pass along to new Sound Assist users.  The correct charger obviously comes with the unit but in case you forget your charging cord at home, take care to only use the correct power plug (5.0 V).  Because this is so confusing to so many, we are going to get some information out to you on the voltage to use not only for your accessories but also for your chargers and phones.

Exploration and Consultation

The Widex Sound Assist is a powerful tool for enhancing your hearing in various scenarios. To make the most of this device, we encourage you to work closely with your audiologist to understand its features and functionalities. Furthermore, don’t hesitate to explore the Sound Assist on your own, as you might stumble upon unique ways to improve your hearing experience.

We extend our gratitude to our long-time patient who generously shared their insights on the Sound Assist, as their experiences have illuminated the many advantages of this remarkable device.

Here’s to better hearing and improved quality of life. Cheers!

Hearing Care Technology for Hearing Loss

What is new in the World of Technology?

March 4, 2023

What is new in the World of Technology?

If you are eager to learn about the latest and greatest in Consumer Technology, then look no further than the CES Conference.  It is an annual conference organized by the Consumer Technology Association.  Typically it is held in Las Vegas in January and hosts presentations on new products and technologies in the consumer electronics industry.  The topics are as varied as the name would suggest; ranging from accessibility to smart homes/cities to health, fitness, and gaming.  Hosts include manufacturers, developers, and suppliers of consumer technology.  It is also a place where the world’s business leaders and pioneering thinkers address the industry’s most pressing issues.

The reach of the Conference is a global one. 

You can imagine that the opportunity to present your product or idea on such a platform could change a business quickly.  Not only do people attend in person, but you can follow along online through multiple media sources in real-time as well as through podcasts.  So if you missed this year, you can attend in the future and learn what was present this year. 

As I mentioned, there were multiple topic categories this year besides our interest of Hearing products. 

Also, as you can imagine, a supplier or an inventor may go to the conference with the idea of pitching their product to a certain clientele, then realize their idea may have additional applications.  Since you are reading this on a blog dedicated to hearing and hearing health, I bet you can guess what types of products I will talk about in this blog. 

Since the FDA recently cleared the way for Over-the-Counter (OTC) hearing aids, several manufacturers were there promoting their new OTC hearing aids. 

Some are household names (like Sony), or known to people in the industry, (like NuHeara),  while still others are perhaps less well known (like Orka).  Other hearing health care technology companies were presenting new hearables (like the OrCam Hear) or accessories for hearing aids (like the Redux professional drying system for hearing aids).

We at Hears Hearing & Hearables want you to be aware of the changes in the hearing healthcare industry; the good and the bad. 

Most people think new technology is good, but for some it can be confusing; others find the new sounds to be too much.  That is why we want you to understand all of your options before you purchase.  In hearing aids, including OTC hearing aids, one size does not fit all.  We are here to guide you through the process with care and transparency.  All costs, fees and services are available at any time. 

Please contact us if you have any question about this blog or the conference.  We are ready to answer any and all of your questions.  Happy Hearing!

Pocket Otoscope

Otoscopic Exams: Why We Have to Look in Your Ears

February 11, 2022

So you’re at an appointment with your primary care physician or a hearing healthcare professional and one of the first things they do is check in your ears with a special tool called an otoscope.

This is called an otoscopic exam and it is imperative to confirm normal ear health.

Both your primary care physician and your hearing healthcare professional (Audiologist) are checking to make sure that they can see your tympanic membrane (eardrum) and that it looks normal and healthy.

The tympanic membrane (TM) separates the outer ear from the middle ear and transmits the acoustic energy from the air-filled outer ear into mechanical energy in the middle ear as it vibrates.

When a physician looks in your ear they want to see a pearly white or pinkish tympanic membrane that is slightly see-through so that some of the middle ear bones are visible through it. Another important structure they should see is the cone of light near the bottom of the tympanic membrane. Because the tympanic membrane is slightly concave, when the light from the otoscope shines onto the eardrum there should be a small reflection visible. This reflection is important as it confirms that the eardrum is taught like it is supposed to be.

The most common issue that disrupts the tympanic membrane from being visible is wax.

Ear wax is very common in most people and although it usually does not pose any issues, sometimes it can become impacted against the eardrum which might cause a slight hearing loss. Other times it may not cause hearing loss but there can be so much that a good view of the eardrum is not possible. Healthy earwax will look yellow or light brown and should be slightly wet and gooey. Sometimes it can be drier, flakier, and appear to be more of an off-white color. Both are normal and should really only be removed if it is necessary to be able to see the eardrum, otherwise, the wax will work itself out on its own. If the wax is very dark and hardened this is a sign that it is impacted and may be causing some hearing loss or even pain to the patient. In this case, it should be removed with a water wash and might even need oil, so that the warm water can soften and loosen it up so that it can be removed by a professional or eventually fall out on its own.

If you are a parent a small, easy-to-use otoscope might be a great tool to have in your first-aid kit.

As many parents know, small things can end up in many unwanted places such as a shoe, a dog bowl, or even a child’s ear. Being able to look in the ear and make sure there’s nothing in there that shouldn’t be can save you a trip to the doctor or show you the need to get to an urgent care asap!

It is also typical of kids to complain of ear pain, they have shorter, more horizontal eustachian tubes than adults which can cause ear issues and infections to be more common. Otitis media, or a middle ear infection, are especially common in children. If this is an issue that your child often has, it might be helpful to have an otoscope so you can confirm whether or not it is an infection before spending time and money on going to the doctor.

Before you start sticking an otoscope into your child’s ear as the ear is a sensitive place, it is important to know how to look in gently and not hurt your child!

It is not a difficult thing to learn, it’s just important to know how to do it safely and effectively. Once you know how to use an otoscope you need to know what you are looking for when you use it. If you are trying to check whether or not your child is dealing with an ear infection you want to be on the lookout for a red, irritated, bulging eardrum. Sometimes you will also be able to see fluid behind the eardrum which would be causing the bulge. These are clear signs that there is an infection and it is time to go to the doctor to get some antibiotics prescribed!  And if there is fluid all time the, you can even talk to the Ear Nose, and Throat doctor about PE Tubes.

Many other outer and middle ear disorders can be identified through an otoscopic exam.

Besides ear infection, wax buildup, and foreign objects in the ear, an otoscopy can also show cholesteatoma, perforations (holes), tympanosclerosis, and myringosclerosis. If your physician or hearing healthcare professional sees something amiss during an otoscopic exam they will refer you to an ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) doctor or another specialist like an audiologist to further check out what might be going on and also get a diagnosis or a recommendation to see an ENT doctor. If you are a parent and see something unusual with your child’s ear you can always check in with us and see if we can help.  If we can’t we will recommend you see your primary care doctor or even an ENT doctor.

Load More
Post Categories
0
    0
    Your Cart
    Your cart is emptyReturn to Shop
      Apply Coupon