News Article Written By: Dr. Michael Sharp, Au.D. Article Publisted: November 1 , 2024 • Times Republican & New Era • Page 3
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Apple is jumping into the pool of hearing devices by adding hearing aid functionality to their Air Pods 2. The advantages of these kinds of overthe-counter devices do come with some important caveats of which consumers should be aware. This information will make a well armed consumer that can make a well informed choice about their hearing healthcare.
First, Apple is entering the over-the-counter hearing aid market by adding hearing aid functionality to their Air Pods 2 devices and this is exciting news as it will open doors for more people to use amplification at a lower upfront cost. Air Pods 2 will already have features that are typical for wireless headphones such as noise cancellation to reduce outside noise, transparency mode to hear the world around you while the buds are in place, and customizable settings that allow the user to tune their music or phone calls to their preference.
In order to help those with hearing loss, Apple is adding amplification of incoming sound, addition of clarity to the incoming sound, and the convenience of being in the Apple ecosystem for those users with Apple products such as phones, computers, and tablets. It is important to note that like other over-the-counter products, these devices are meant for those with mild to moderate sensorineural hearing loss (permanent hearing loss that comes from the inner ear) that is even in both ears.
Just like everything, the Apple products do have a few drawbacks to be aware of when researching potential hearing loss treatment options. The first is battery life. Air Pods are only meant to run for a few hours. Similar to other over-the-counter devices, these are only meant to be worn for specific situations and are not for all day use. A person experiencing communication issues throughout the day will likely not find them adequate. Another potential drawback is comfort. Wearing them for an extended amount of time can cause some folks discomfort. Air Pods come with a few options to match the size and shape of the consumer’s ear canal, but traditional hearing aids have a large number of options available.
This all begs the question, do I even need to treat my hearing loss? The short answer is, yes! Regardless of what avenue a person decides to pursue to treat their hearing loss, a full hearing evaluation from a hearing care professional is the key to success. One should have a full understanding of their hearing and what impact it may have on understanding speech. AnnMarie Kinsella and Mason Olson at ASI Beltone are examples of providers that can assess and discuss your hearing loss and potential treatment options. A good Hearing Care Provider can answer questions, clear up information, and discuss the latest research in hearing loss.
Regardless of whether a patient decides to pursue over-the-counter devices like the Air Pods 2 or a traditional hearing aid fitting with a Hearing Care Provider, the impact of treating hearing loss cannot be overstated. Recently, a committee of researchers in the UK at The Lancet reviewed over 350 different pieces of research on the risk factors of dementia. They identified fourteen modifiable risks and determined the number one risk factor for dementia that a person can modify is hearing loss. This means that untreated hearing loss can not only impact communication and personal relationships but it also is, according to research, the largest risk factor of dementia that an individual can modify as they age.
So, if you have any concern about your hearing the first step is a hearing test with a licensed Hearing Care Professional. You can come to Beltone Corydon located at 417 S. East Street, Corydon, for a free hearing test, so you know if it’s an issue and to what extent. Once you have an understanding of your hearing then you can determine which course of action is best for you and your hearing life.
Dr. Michael Sharp, Au.D, CCC-A is a licensed audiologist and has been the owner of ASI Beltone since February of 2020. Specializing in Audiology Diagnostics, Hearing Aids and Auditory Processing Disorder.
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