Learn What is a Hearing aid and How it works
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What is a Hearing aid?
A hearing aid is an electronic device that is worn by an individual with a hearing loss so that they are able to listen and communicate in day-to-day activities. Hearing aids come in a wide range of styles and technology levels and there are numerous hearing aid brands.
How does a hearing aid work?
A hearing aid consists of 3 components: a microphone, an amplifier and a speaker. The microphone picks up nearby external sounds and converts it into a digital signal. The amplifier then increases the strength of this signal. Sounds are then transmitted to the ear by the speaker. These sounds are converted into neural signals that are passed along the auditory nerve to the brain.
The decision to take the next step and go ahead with hearing aids can feel a little daunting. Our Audiologists at Helix Hearing are here to support and guide you to find the right devices for you. This involves an appointment to evaluate your communication needs and get an understanding of your hearing and ear health history. A thorough hearing test is conducted first to ensure we have an accurate picture of the degree and type of hearing loss. We then have a discussion on some hearing aid options, taking into consideration your hearing, lifestyle and budget.
While the style of hearing aids vary, hearing aid prices can also vary. Hearing aids can typically range from approximately $1500-8000 a pair for a privately funded patient. Pricing is dependent on the level of technology and features within the hearing aid. If you are a pension card holder, you may be eligible for fully subsided or partially subsidised hearing aids through the Federal Government’s Hearing Services Program (HSP). Your audiologist will also discuss other funding options if these are applicable to you. Other forms of funding for hearing aids may include: The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA), Worksafe Victoria, Job Access Victoria and Private Health Insurance.
At Helix Hearing, we provide transparent pricing by offering an unbundled pricing structure, separating the cost of the device and service, for hearing aid fittings. This enables you to select the device and fitting package that is most suitable for your budget and hearing needs. Our audiologists pride themselves on being fully independent from any hearing aid brand or manufacturer, enabling them to provide you with a full range of devices to best suit your needs. Our audiologists do not receive commission or financial incentives for hearing aid sale.