https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/blog/ https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/blog/new-hearing-aids-that-support-your-brain-to-hear-better/ <p>Your ears do not hear, they detect sound. The sound is sent to the brain via the auditory nerve and the brain then makes sense of it. It is the brain that hears.</p>
<p>The new Oticon More hearing aids supports how your brain naturally hears. They are based on new research on how the brain uses sound information from the ears. The more sound signals the brain receives, the better it can use the information so you can hear more clearly. The Oticon More hearing aids deliver more sound to the brain for a clearer, fuller and richer sound experience.</p>
<p>Traditional hearing aids are designed to focus solely on speech coming from in front of you - but this prevents your brain from getting the sound information it needs. The Oticon More hearing aids have a ground-breaking new technology that has learned to recognise all kinds of sounds in fine detail – so you can experience the full sound scene in all its richness, detail and clarity.</p>
<p>Sound scenes change constantly and are full of so much more than speech. To work naturally, your brain needs access to the full sound scene.  Delivering more sound requires a new intelligent chip with more precision and more computational capacity and speed. After scanning and analysing the sound scene 500 times per second to understand the complexity of the sound scene, the hearing aid can organise the sounds around you to create clear contrast and balance between sounds.</p>
<p>Oticon More connects directly to your Apple or Android™ device. Bluetooth wireless technology makes it all possible. The audio streams directly to your hearing aids. Enjoy a range of connectivity possibilities, like;</p>
<ul><li>streaming music,</li>
<li>talking on the phone and </li>
<li>using the Oticon ON App to control the hearing aids.</li>
</ul><p>With rechargeable Lithium-Ion batteries, you can have a full day of hearing, including streaming on a 3-hour charge.</p>
<p>Oticon hearing aids are IP68-certified. This means these hearing aids are dust tight and protected against ingress of water, which means they are designed to be worn in all daily life situations.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/enquiry-and-locations/enquiry-and-book-appointment/" target="_blank">Contact us</a> if you are interested in exploring this amazing hearing aid solution. We offer a comprehensive hearing aid discussion appointment for $95 (normally $175).</p>
<p><a style="color: #7eba2e;" href="https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/home/appointment-booking/"><img src="https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/assets/img-header1a.png" width="370" height="80" alt="" title=""/></a></p> Wed, 10 Feb 2021 12:19:07 +1100 https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/blog/new-hearing-aids-that-support-your-brain-to-hear-better/ https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/blog/new-insights-turn-sound-upside-down-for-hearing-loss/ <p>New research is changing the way we think about hearing aids by unlocking the secret to how our brains process sound and paving the way for improved treatments and technologies.</p>
<p>“Many people think that we hear with our ears, but it’s the brain that actually does the hearing. The ears detect sound and deliver it to the brain. The brain then works out what is speech, and what is noise and makes sense of it.  Our clients like the Oticon Opn S hearing aid's sound and performance.  They choose this hearing aid becauase it makes listening easier”, said Mary Kalantzis from Melbourne Audiology Centre about the brain-friendly approach to hearing care from Oticon. Thi is why we choose to supply hearing aids featuring the BrainHearing™ technology at Melbourne Audiology Centre.</p>
<p>Jonathan Constantine, the Brisbane-based national audiology manager of hearing device company Oticon, said research from the United States* challenges the established approach for hearing aids, which is to provide access to only one voice while minimising background noise.  “The new studies suggest people with hearing loss need access to all sounds for their brains to make sense of their environment”, Mr Constantine said.  “If a hearing aid provides limited access to sounds, the brain has to work harder to make sense of the sound. This can then diminish the overall quality of hearing”.</p>
<p>Melbourne Audiology Centre fits a range of Oticon hearing aids with BrainHearing technology such as the Oticon Opn S. Melbourne Audiology Centre has a variety of options to suit your needs whilst giving you access to this unique approach to hearing technology.</p>
<p>Mr Constantine said the new research confirmed Oticon’s fundamental BrainHearing philosophy, which is that while the ears collect sound, it is the brain that makes sense of it.  “We have always believed that the key to treating hearing loss lies in understanding how the brain processes and makes sense of sound”, he said.</p>
<p>Mr Constantine said Oticon’s Opn S hearing aid, released last year, was the first hearing aid proven to support the brain’s natural way of organising sounds**.  Mr Constantine said there were strong connections between hearing health and brain health.  “A vicious cycle can start when a person experiences hearing loss and doesn’t treat it effectively. Hearing loss can make social gatherings challenging, so people tend to withdraw which can leave them feeling socially isolated. Over time, the lack of interaction can lead to a drop in mood as well as cognitive decline, both of which can cause further health issues”, he explained.  “Good hearing helps your brain stay fit throughout your life. These sorts of breakthroughs enable us to develop new technologies to help improve quality of life for more than 3.6 million Australians who suffer from hearing loss”.</p>
<h3>To book an appointment to try Oticon hearing aids featuring BrainHearing technology and let your brain be the judge, contact the team at Melbourne Audiology Centre on 9415 5858 or make an <a href="https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/enquiry-and-locations/enquiry-and-book-appointment/" target="_blank">appointment booking enquiry online here.</a></h3>
<p> </p>
<p><em>* https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuron.2019.09.007 and https://www.jneurosci.org/content/37/38/9189</em></p>
<p><em>**Ng & Man 2019, Oticon Whitepaper</em></p>
<p><em>Always read the instructions for use. Follow the instructions for use.</em></p>
<p><em> </em></p>
<p> </p> Fri, 04 Dec 2020 14:02:04 +1100 https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/blog/new-insights-turn-sound-upside-down-for-hearing-loss/ https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/blog/shift-ready-to-wear-hearing-devices/ <h3>Take Charge of your Hearing Experience</h3>
<p>Designed for people with a mild to moderate hearing loss and who are not quite ready to commit to professionally fitted hearing aids. The SHIFT hearing devices can be easily programmed by the user, using the SHIFT hearing app. Once programmed, the SHIFT hearing app functions as a remote control. You can adjust the volume and programs. The SHIFT ready-to-wear hearing devices have two programs; the main automatic program and a special program for listening to music.</p>
<p>The SHIFT hearing devices can connect with a mobile phone* so you can clearly hear the phone conversations . And, they are rechargeable.</p>
<p>In the box you get:</p>
<ul><li>A pair of hearing devices</li>
<li>The charger that also functions as a storage case</li>
<li>Wax guards</li>
<li>3 sizes of ear domes to customise to your ear canal size</li>
<li>Cleaning tools</li>
<li>User guide</li>
</ul><p>SHIFT Ready-to-Wear hearing devices are not designed to be fitted by an audiologist and hence no clinical appointments are required.  You take charge to set-up your own devices using a smartphone app.  This keeps the costs of a pair of SHIFT hearing devices relatively low.  A pair of SHIFT ready-to-wear hearing devices cost $1495. Please see comparison of SHIFT Ready-to-wear hearing devices with hearing aids below.</p>
<p><span style="color: #444444; font-size: 1.1em; font-weight: 600;">SHIFT ready-to-wear hearing devices feature:</span></p>
<ul><li>Great sound – adaptive technology automatically adjusts to changing sound environments to seamlessly deliver better hearing</li>
<li>Direct connectivity – wireless streaming for hands-free phone calls and music, directly to your hearing devices</li>
<li>Convenient and safe – shipped right to your door, set-up and optimised by you with the easy-to-use app</li>
<li>Support you can trust – confidence that comes with a professional recommendation and convenient self-serve support options, including how-to videos, and more</li>
</ul><p><span style="color: #444444; font-size: 1.1em; font-weight: 600;">SHIFT makes the first step to better hearing easy. </span><br/>You take control of your hearing:</p>
<ul><li>Easy to set-up</li>
<li>Personalise your sound profile and optimise on-the-go</li>
<li>Direct media streaming via Bluetooth®</li>
<li>Hands-free phone calls to both ears</li>
</ul><p>Programs optimise sound for conversations in quiet and noise, as well as live music.</p>
<h3><span style="color: #444444; font-size: 1.1em; font-weight: 600;">SO, MAKE THE MOVE </span></h3>
<p>Are you ready to take charge and improve a mild hearing loss that you have been meaning to do something about? </p>
<h2>SHIFT Ready-to-Wear Hearing Devices are Availabe on our<a href="https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/buy-online-2/shift-ready-to-wear-hearing-devices/"> Online Shop (Click Here).</a></h2>
<h3><span style="color: #444444; font-size: 1.1em; font-weight: 600;">SHIFT support </span></h3>
<p>If you do find that you are having difficulties in setting up or adjusting you SHIFT, you can find online support via the SHIFT hearing app.  We  also have information and <a href="https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/shift-ready-to-wear-hearing-devices/shift-faq-s-and-how-to-videos/">'how to' videos here.</a><br/>IF you're having issues with the fit or the SHIFT hearing devices are moving out of you ears, we can assist.  Please call us on  1300 761 021 to arrange an appointment (our standard prices apply). NB: we don't have the ability to connect to the SHIFT ready-to-wear and cannot make adjustments to the programming of the device.</p>
<h2>SHIFT Ready-to-Wear Quick Comparison</h2>
<table style="height: 20px; width: 1000px;" border="0" cellspacing="2"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: left;"> </td>
<td style="text-align: left;">
<h3>Hearing Aids</h3>
</td>
<td style="text-align: left;">
<h3>SHIFT Ready-to-Wear Hearing Devices </h3>
</td>
</tr><tr><td><strong>Price for a Pair of Rechargeable Devices</strong></td>
<td>$3800-$8000+ (depending on technological features)</td>
<td>$1495</td>
</tr><tr><td><strong>Reqires Face-to-Face Fitting with an Audiologist</strong></td>
<td>Yes</td>
<td>No</td>
</tr><tr><td><strong>Programming can be Adjusted and Customised by Audiologist </strong></td>
<td>Yes</td>
<td>No</td>
</tr><tr><td><strong>Remote Programming - audiologist can adjust the hearing aids via the internet </strong></td>
<td>Yes</td>
<td>No</td>
</tr><tr><td><strong>Able to fit a wide range and configuration of hearing loss</strong></td>
<td>Yes</td>
<td>limited to mild to moderate hearing loss</td>
</tr><tr><td><strong>Set-up by the User Using an App</strong></td>
<td>No</td>
<td>Yes using the SHIFT hearing app</td>
</tr><tr><td><strong>Abilty of User to Adjust Sound and Programs Using an App</strong></td>
<td>Yes, can adjust volume, programs, tinnitus, and many other parameters</td>
<td>Yes can adjust volume and select between 2 programs - auto and music</td>
</tr><tr><td>
<p><strong>Advanced Features -</strong><strong>speech enhancement, noise reduction,  health and brain monitoring, falls detector, and more</strong></p>
</td>
<td>Yes, advanced features available</td>
<td>No, basic to standard features</td>
</tr><tr><td><strong>Rechargeable </strong></td>
<td>Yes, rechargeable and non-rechargeable models </td>
<td>Yes</td>
</tr><tr><td><strong>Connects with iPhone and Android phones </strong></td>
<td>Yes, using direct 'made for iPhone' and 'made for Android'</td>
<td>Yes</td>
</tr><tr><td><strong>Accessories</strong></td>
<td>Yes, for TV, remote microphones, telecoils, streamer used if you have an older phone</td>
<td>Yes, but only for TV</td>
</tr><tr><td><strong>Device Styles </strong></td>
<td>All, including invisible IIC, CIC and Receiver in canal</td>
<td>Receiver in canal style only</td>
</tr><tr><td><strong>Colour Range</strong> </td>
<td>Wide range of colours to match hair colour or users individual style</td>
<td>Only available Silver/White</td>
</tr><tr><td><strong>Warranty</strong></td>
<td>3-years</td>
<td>1-year</td>
</tr></tbody></table><p><br/>* SHIFT Ready-to-Wear hearing devices can connect to iPhone iOS 12 and higher, and Android 8 and higher<br/><br/></p>
<ul><p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
</ul> Mon, 28 Sep 2020 17:20:24 +1000 https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/blog/shift-ready-to-wear-hearing-devices/ https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/blog/how-to-find-the-best-hearing-aids-for-your-needs/ <div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">How to find the best hearing aids for your needs </div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">If you have a hearing loss, hearing aids can help.</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">There are many brands and styles of hearing aids on the market. So how do you know which is best for you? Consult an audiologist.</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">Audiologists are the experts in hearing and hearing loss. They understand the complexity of hearing loss and it’s impacts on relationships. Audiologists also understand and keep abreast of latest hearing aid technology. They make evidence-based recommendations. In addition, there is a large range of add-on accessories that can take hearing aids to another level. Your audiologist will ask you about your hearing and how hearing loss is impacting your life. They will recommend the best hearing aids for your hearing levels, needs and budget.</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">Hearing loss is a complex condition with damage occurring to the ear and/or the hearing nerves. Some types of hearing loss can be treated with medication or surgery. But most cases of hearing loss cannot be treated medically.  This is when the audiologist comes in.  The two major causes of hearing loss are getting older and loud noise.  Both age-related and noise-induced hearing loss are complex and permanent.  They affect the inner ear, the hearing nerves or both.</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">Audiologists also know about the impacts of hearing loss on relationships, the enjoyment of sounds and wellbeing.  Hearing aids can help. </div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">Our audiologists have ongoing training in all the new hearing aid technologies.  They keep abreast of current advances in devices that will help with hearing loss.  Hence, they can match up the best hearing aid technology and devices with an individual’s hearing loss and listening needs. </div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">Hearing aids do more than make sounds louder. Making both speech and noise louder may not necessarily make it clearer for someone with hearing loss. In fact, making sounds too loud can cause distortions of the sound and distortions in the ear, as well as being uncomfortable. </div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">Hearing aids must make speech clearer. They must reduce annoying noise and amplify speech. This is quite challenging to achieve because; </div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>the speech and noise often occur together</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>there are different types of noise - background noise, echo/reverberation, wind noise</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>sometimes the 'noise' you do not want to hear is other speech</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>the sound environment around us is changing from one instant to another </div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>sounds are coming from all around us</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">The newest technologies in hearing aids focus on:</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>improving speech clarity by:</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">o<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>more accurately identifying what is speech and what is noise when they are combined </div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">o<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>improving strategies for amplifying speech and reducing noise</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">o<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>faster processing computer chips to keep up with the constantly changing sound environment</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>more natural sound and ability to detect which direction sounds are coming from</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>unique amplification strategies for music to improve it’s fidelity</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>connecting directly with mobile phones so audio from mobile phones is sent wirelessly using Bluetooth to the hearing aids</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>connecting to TV, tablets and more so audio is streamed wirelessly to the hearing aids</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>new rechargeable hearing aids that give a full day’s charge.</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">Melbourne Audiology Centre offers a wide range of the latest quality hearing aids.  We only supply hearing aids made by the leading hearing aid manufacturers.  In this way we are confident that the hearing aids we supply meet high quality standards.  We can also be assured that they provide the correct amplification for each individual hearing loss.  Delivering the correct amplification is vitally important to achieving optimal speech clarity. </div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">Hearing aid prices depend on several things including:</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>technology features</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>the style of the hearing aid </div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>whether there are any rebates available:</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">o<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Government’s Hearing Services Program (HSP) rebates for pensioners, veterans and other eligible clients </div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>HSP clients may be eligible for fully or partially subsidised hearing aids</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">o<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>health fund rebates</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">o<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Please contact us for more information 1300 761 021.</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">Our audiologist will ask you about your listening needs and your lifestyle.  They will help you select the best hearing aids that are within your budget and they will program and fine-tune the aids, so you achieve the best hearing possible. </div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">The price of your hearing aids includes the audiology services required for programming and adjusting the hearing aids.  Our goal is to help you achieve the best hearing possible with the best hearing aids for your needs.  Hearing aids generally last for years.  Over time your hearing, hearing needs or lifestyle may change.  Your hearing aids may need further adjustment and we are here to help you, so you have many years of good hearing with your investment.  </div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">Hearing aids are an investment of your time and money. The way to find the best hearing aids is to get professional unbiased advice. Consult one of our audiologists.</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">Book an appointment for a ‘Hearing aid assessment and consultation’ or call us on 1300 761 021.</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">[book now] link to </div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">We supply hearing aids from leading hearing aid manufacturer’s including Oticon, Starkey, Unitron, Signia, Phonak, Widex and Resound. </div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">As an essential health service, we are open during COVID-19.  We are practicing strict infection control procedures for the safety of everyone.  </div>
<h3>How to buy the best hearing aids for you</h3>
<p>If you have a hearing loss, hearing aids can help.  There are many brands and styles of hearing aids on the market. So how do you know which is best for you? Consult an audiologist. Why?</p>
<p>Audiologists are the experts in hearing and hearing loss. They understand the complexity of hearing loss and it’s impacts on relationships. Audiologists also understand and keep abreast of the latest hearing aid technology. When helping you choose the best hearing aids, they make evidence-based recommendations. In addition, there is a large range of add-on accessories that can take hearing aids to another level. Your audiologist will ask you about your hearing and how hearing loss is impacting your life. They will recommend the best hearing aids for your hearing levels, needs and budget.</p>
<p>Hearing loss is a complex condition with damage occurring to the ear and/or the hearing nerves. Some types of hearing loss can be treated with medication or surgery. But most cases of hearing loss cannot be treated medically.  This is when the audiologist comes in.  The two major causes of hearing loss are getting older and loud noise.  Both age-related and noise-induced hearing loss are complex and permanent.  They affect the inner ear, the hearing nerves or both.</p>
<p>Audiologists also know about the impacts of hearing loss on relationships, the enjoyment of sounds and wellbeing.  Hearing aids can help. </p>
<p>Our audiologists have ongoing training in all the new hearing aid technologies.  They keep abreast of current advances in devices that will help with hearing loss.  Hence, they can match up the best hearing aid technology and devices with an individual’s hearing loss and listening needs. </p>
<p>Hearing aids do more than make sounds louder. Making both speech and noise louder may not necessarily make it clearer for someone with hearing loss. In fact, making sounds too loud can cause distortions of the sound and distortions in the ear, as well as being uncomfortable. </p>
<p>Hearing aids must make speech clearer. They must reduce annoying noise and amplify speech. This is quite challenging to achieve because; </p>
<ul><li>the speech and noise often occur together</li>
<li>there are different types of noise - background noise, echo/reverberation, wind noise</li>
<li>sometimes the 'noise' you do not want to hear is other speech</li>
<li>the sound environment around us is changing from one instant to another </li>
<li>sounds are coming from all around us</li>
</ul><p>The newest technologies in hearing aids focus on:</p>
<ul><li>improving speech clarity by:
<ul><li>more accurately identifying what is speech and what is noise when they are combined </li>
<li>improving strategies for amplifying speech and reducing noise</li>
</ul></li>
<li>faster processing computer chips to keep up with the constantly changing sound environment</li>
<li>more natural sound and ability to detect which direction sounds are coming from</li>
<li>unique amplification strategies for music to improve it’s fidelity</li>
<li>connecting directly with mobile phones so audio from mobile phones is sent wirelessly using Bluetooth to the hearing aids</li>
<li>connecting to TV, tablets and more so audio is streamed wirelessly to the hearing aids</li>
<li>new rechargeable hearing aids that give a full day’s charge.</li>
</ul><p>Melbourne Audiology Centre offers a wide range of the latest quality hearing aids.  We only supply hearing aids made by the leading hearing aid manufacturers.  In this way we are confident that the hearing aids we supply meet high quality standards.  We can also be assured that they provide the correct amplification for each individual hearing loss.  Delivering the correct amplification is vitally important to achieving optimal speech clarity. </p>
<p>Hearing aid prices depend on several things including:</p>
<ul><li>technology features</li>
<li>the style of the hearing aid </li>
<li>whether there are any rebates available:
<ul><li>Government’s Hearing Services Program (HSP) rebates for pensioners, veterans and other eligible clients 
<ul><li>HSP clients may be eligible for fully or partially subsidised hearing aids</li>
</ul></li>
<li>health fund rebates</li>
</ul></li>
</ul><p>Please contact us for more information 1300 761 021.</p>
<p>To help you choose the best hearing aids, our audiologist will ask you about your listening and communictation needs and your lifestyle.  They will help you select the best hearing aids that are within your budget and they will program and fine-tune the aids, so you achieve the best hearing possible. </p>
<p>The price of your hearing aids includes the audiology services required for programming and adjusting the hearing aids.  Our goal is to help you achieve the best hearing possible with the best hearing aids for your needs.  Hearing aids generally last for years.  Over time your hearing, hearing needs or lifestyle may change.  Your hearing aids may need further adjustment and we are here to help you, so you have many years of good hearing with your investment.  </p>
<h2>Hearing aids are an investment of your time and money. The way to find the best hearing aids is to get professional unbiased advice. Consult one of our audiologists.</h2>
<h3><a href="https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/enquiry-and-locations/manual-online-enquiry/" target="_blank">Book an appointment</a> for a ‘Hearing aid assessment and consultation’ or call us on 1300 761 021.</h3>
<p>We supply hearing aids from leading hearing aid manufacturer’s including Oticon, Starkey, Unitron, Signia, Phonak, Widex, Beltone and Resound. </p>
<p>COVID-19: We are practicing strict infection control procedures for the safety of everyone.  <a href="https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/enquiry-and-locations/locations/" target="_blank">Click here for our locations</a>.</p> Thu, 17 Sep 2020 15:00:00 +1000 https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/blog/how-to-find-the-best-hearing-aids-for-your-needs/ https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/blog/stage-4-restrictions-we-re-open-but-it-s-different/ <h3>During stage 4 restrictions in Melbourne we are open but it’s not business as usual.</h3>
<p>We have changed our hearing services delivery model for stage 4 restrictions.  We are open for telehealth services and urgent face-to-face services. We can provide hearing services via telehealth to most clients including pensioners, veterans, and other eligible clients funded under the Hearing Services Program (HSP) and people under WorkSafe, TAC, DVA and NDIS.  We can also provide hearing services for people with Chronic Disease Management (CDM) plans.</p>
<p>Telehealth can be done by phone or video call. For people with hearing loss, a video call will make communication easier as they will be able to see the speaker's face and use visual cues such as lip reading. In addition, for some people with newer hearing aids, we may be able to program the hearing aids "remotely' via the internet.  We can do this during a telehealth appointment.</p>
<p>Hearing services that we can do by telehealth include:</p>
<ul><li>reviewing your progress with hearing aids </li>
<li>help you to troubleshoot an issue with the hearing aids</li>
<li>counselling and tactics for better verbal communication especially if someone is wearing a face mask</li>
<li>discuss new hearing aids</li>
<li>discuss devices that can assist with hearing the TV better</li>
<li>tinnitus counselling and support</li>
</ul><p>Hearing services that we may be able to do by telehealth and RemoteCare include:</p>
<ul><li>fine-tuning a new hearing aid fitting</li>
<li>adjusting the programming in the hearing aids to address any changing needs</li>
</ul><p>We are offering some hearing services with minimal face-to-face contact and these include:</p>
<ul><li>hearing aid repairs</li>
<li>new hearing aid fittings
<ul><li>hearing aids programmed and
<ul><li>if experienced hearing aid user the aids can be picked up</li>
<li>if a new hearing aid user, a short face-to-face for any adjustments and instruction on use</li>
</ul></li>
<li>all hearing aid fittings followed by telehealth appointment</li>
<li>any issues with physical fit of the aids may need to be addressed with a short face-to-face appointment</li>
<li>a subsequent face-to-face appointment after the lockdown will be necessary to finalise the fitting of the hearing aids</li>
</ul></li>
</ul><p>Many hearing services can only be done face-to-face. These include: </p>
<ul><li>hearing tests, which must be done using calibrated equipment and in sound treated conditions</li>
<li>hearing aid fittings need a face-to-face appointment to measure the amount of sound in the ear canal (we are deferring this to after lockdown) or if there are issues with physical fit</li>
<li>taking impressions for custom hearing aids </li>
<li>otoscopy - checking the ear canal and ear drum. </li>
</ul><p>If we do see you face-to-face for an urgent appointment, we are reducing the time spent in the appointment and where we can will do part of the service by telehealth.</p>
<p>We are doing our best to be as safe as possible and to minimise the transmission of COVID-19 when delivering face-to-face services .  In summary, when doing face-to-face hearing services we are: </p>
<ul><li>practicing strict infection control </li>
<li>physically distancing and managing the number of clients in a room </li>
<li>adapting our service delivery procedures </li>
<li>telehealth hearing services </li>
<li>remote care hearing aid adjustments </li>
<li>reduced face-to-face time during appointments </li>
<li>kerbside service</li>
</ul><p> Whilst some of our hearing services may be delivered in a different way as we embrace new service delivery models, we are still committed to providing our clients with the best hearing care.  </p>
<p> You can contact us on 1300 761 021.</p>
<p> </p> Wed, 12 Aug 2020 16:52:55 +1000 https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/blog/stage-4-restrictions-we-re-open-but-it-s-different/ https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/blog/telehealth-and-remotecare-for-audiology-services-teleaudiology/ <h3>Telehealth and remote care for hearing services</h3>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">As hearing health care practitioners, we are facing challenges with the COVID-19 pandemic.  How do we deliver hearing services to our clients in a safe way? </div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">The incidence of hearing loss increases with age.  Hence, we tend to see more seniors at our clinics.  Our older clients are at a higher risk if they are infected with corona virus.  So, we have adapted.  We are now conducting many of our appointment protocols differently to reduce the risks to our clients.  </div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">From mid-March we have been providing some hearing services via telehealth.  Pensioners, veterans, and other eligible clients funded under the Hearing Services Program (HSP) can have some hearing services funded via telehealth.  Our Worksafe clients can also have some hearing services completed by telehealth.</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">Telehealth is often done by phone, which has its own challenges when talking to someone who has a hearing loss.  This is because people with hearing loss depend on visual cues and lip reading to hear optimally.  Have you heard anyone saying they can hear better when they are looking at you?  This is because we are using visual cues such as lip reading to help with hearing.  If the client with hearing loss can see us, they can use visual information to support their hearing.  For this reason, we would prefer to use video-chat for telehealth services in audiology.  In our industry we call this teleaudiology.  To be able to do teleaudiology, our clients need to have internet access and be familiar with using technology.  However, this is not always the case with our older clients.  Another compounding factor for teleaudiology services is when someone has limited English.  Despite these factors, we can do teleaudiology services with many of our clients.</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">The appointment types that we can do by teleaudiology include:</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>reviewing hearing aid fitting</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>reviewing your progress with hearing aids</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>troubleshooting an issue with the hearing aids</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>tinnitus counselling and support.</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">RemoteCare is an innovative technology in hearing aids that enables us to program some hearing aids "remotely' via the internet.  We can offer RemoteCare to our clients who have newer hearing aids with this technology.  They must also have internet access and know how to use apps on their smart phone.  RemoteCare allows the audiologist to connect to the hearing aids via the internet.  The connection is via an app specific to the model of hearing aid.  For example, we can adjust the Oticon Opn hearing aids using ‘Oticon RemoteCare’ app.  We book a ‘remote’ appointment which we do via video-chat (like Skype).  At the same time, the audiologist can connect to the hearing aids and adjust them in real-time.  The audiologist adjusts the hearing aid programming based on the conversation with the client.   The goal is to get to the best hearing possible.  Our audiologists love it!  It works like a face-to-face appointment in many respects.  However, if there are issues with physical fit or inserting the hearing aids clients will need a face-to-face appointment.</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">However, we cannot do all appointments via teleaudiology or RemoteCare.  We must do some appointments face-to-face.  These include:</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>hearing tests, which we must do using calibrated equipment and in sound treated conditions</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>most hearing aid fittings as we need to check the physical fit of the hearing aids on the ear and measure the amount of sound in the ear canal</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>taking impressions for custom hearing aids</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>otoscopy - checking the ear canal and ear drum.</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">To reduce risks of infection in face-to-face appointments, we are reducing the time spent in close proximity to our clients.  Where we can, we are doing part of the appointment by teleaudiology and the other face-to-face. </div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">As audiologists, we are often looking after older and hence more vulnerable people.  It is vital that when delivering our services, it is as safe as possible.  In summary, when supplying hearing services to our clients we are:</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>practicing strict infection control</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>physically distancing and managing the number of clients in a room</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>adapting our service delivery procedures</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">o<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>teleaudiology services</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">o<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>remote care hearing aid adjustments</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">o<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>reduced face-to-face time during appointments</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">o<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>kerbside help.</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">RemoteCare will become more common as clients upgrade their hearing aids and become familiar with apps.  The other benefits of teleaudiology and Remote Care in addition to the ones already mentioned are:</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>it can save clients time by reducing the need to travel to the clinic</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>it’s a convenient service to people who live further away or cannot drive to clinic</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>more support to clients especially in the first few days following a new hearing aid fitting</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>timely minor hearing aid adjustments and counselling.</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">Whilst some appointments may be delivered in a different way as we embrace new service delivery models, we are still committed to providing our clients with the best hearing care. </div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">You can contact us on 1300 761 021. </div>
<p>As hearing health care practitioners, we are facing challenges with the COVID-19 pandemic.  How do we deliver hearing services to our clients in a safe way? </p>
<p>The incidence of hearing loss increases with age.  Hence, we tend to see more seniors at our clinics.  Our older clients are at a higher risk if they are infected with corona virus.  So, we have adapted.  We are now conducting many of our appointment protocols differently to reduce the risks to our clients.  </p>
<p>From mid-March we have been providing some hearing services via telehealth.  Pensioners, veterans, and other eligible clients funded under the Hearing Services Program (HSP) can have some hearing services funded via telehealth.  Our Worksafe clients can also have some hearing services completed by telehealth.</p>
<p>Telehealth is often done by phone, which has its own challenges when talking to someone who has a hearing loss.  This is because people with hearing loss depend on visual cues and lip reading to hear optimally.  Have you heard anyone saying they can hear better when they are looking at you?  This is because they are using visual cues such as lip reading to help with hearing.  For this reason, we would prefer to use video-chat for telehealth services in audiology.  In our industry we call this teleaudiology.  To be able to do teleaudiology, our clients need to have internet access and be familiar with using technology.  However, this is not always the case with our older clients.  Another compounding factor for teleaudiology services is when someone has limited English.  Despite these factors, we can do teleaudiology services with many of our clients.</p>
<p>The appointment types that we can do by teleaudiology include:</p>
<p>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>reviewing hearing aid fitting</p>
<p>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>reviewing your progress with hearing aids</p>
<p>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>troubleshooting an issue with the hearing aids</p>
<p>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>tinnitus counselling and support.</p>
<p>RemoteCare is an innovative technology in hearing aids that enables us to program some hearing aids "remotely' via the internet.  We can offer RemoteCare to our clients who have newer hearing aids with this technology.  They must also have internet access and know how to use apps on their smart phone.  RemoteCare allows the audiologist to connect to the hearing aids via the internet.  The connection is via an app specific to the model of hearing aid.  For example, we can adjust the Oticon Opn hearing aids using ‘Oticon RemoteCare’ app.  We book a ‘remote’ appointment which we do via video-chat (like Skype).  At the same time, the audiologist can connect to the hearing aids and adjust them in real-time.  The audiologist adjusts the hearing aid programming based on the conversation with the client.   The goal is to get to the best hearing possible.  Our audiologists love it!  It works like a face-to-face appointment in many respects.</p>
<p>Unfortunately we cannot do all appointments via teleaudiology or RemoteCare.  We must do some appointments face-to-face.  These include:</p>
<p>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>hearing tests, which we must do using calibrated equipment and in sound treated conditions</p>
<p>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>most hearing aid fittings as we need to check the physical fit of the hearing aids on the ear and measure the amount of sound in the ear canal</p>
<p>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>taking impressions for custom hearing aids</p>
<p>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>otoscopy - checking the ear canal and ear drum.</p>
<p>To reduce risks of infection in face-to-face appointments, we are reducing the time spent in close proximity to our clients.  Where we can, we are doing part of the appointment by teleaudiology and the other face-to-face. </p>
<p>As audiologists, we are often looking after older and hence more vulnerable people.  It is vital that when delivering our services, it is as safe as possible.  In summary, when supplying hearing services to our clients we are:</p>
<p>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>practicing strict infection control</p>
<p>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>physically distancing and managing the number of clients in a room</p>
<p>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>adapting our service delivery procedures</p>
<p>o<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>teleaudiology services</p>
<p>o<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>remote care hearing aid adjustments</p>
<p>o<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>reduced face-to-face time during appointments</p>
<p>o<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>kerbside help.</p>
<p>RemoteCare will become more common as clients upgrade their hearing aids and become familiar with apps.  The other benefits of teleaudiology and Remote Care in addition to the ones already mentioned are:</p>
<p>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>it can save clients time by reducing the need to travel to the clinic</p>
<p>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>it’s a convenient service to people who live further away or cannot drive to clinic</p>
<p>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>more support to clients especially in the first few days following a new hearing aid fitting</p>
<p>•<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>timely minor hearing aid adjustments and counselling.</p>
<p>Whilst some appointments may be delivered in a different way as we embrace new service delivery models, we are still committed to providing our clients with the best hearing care. </p>
<p>You can contact us on 1300 761 021 or book an <a href="https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/enquiry-and-locations/enquiry-and-book-appointment/">appointment here</a>.</p> Wed, 03 Jun 2020 08:30:00 +1000 https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/blog/telehealth-and-remotecare-for-audiology-services-teleaudiology/ https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/blog/free-online-hearing-test/ <p>
</p><div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">As audiologists we understand the vital importance of hearing for your wellbeing and quality of life.  With COVID-19 restrictions, more are relying on telephones, video-chats, radio, and television for connecting.  These all depend on good hearing.  Some people with hearing loss are finding the current times particularly challenging.  Also, following a conversation with someone wearing a facemask can be difficult for people with hearing loss.  </div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">Our free online hearing test is ideal for people who are curious to learn more about their hearing.  It may also be a good starting point in this time of COVID-19 as you can do the test in your own home.  This test is a screening test and can identify if there is any significant hearing loss present.  </div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">The free online hearing test consists of an audio test and a short questionnaire.  It has been validated under laboratory conditions and has a good degree of accuracy.  However, it cannot be used for diagnostic purposes.  A diagnostic hearing test must be done using calibrated equipment and in a sound-treated room.</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">You will get your results instantly when you complete the test online.  If you wish, you can ask that your report is emailed to you.  Of course, at any time you are welcome to contact us if you would like any further information or to book an appointment.  You will be given our contact details at the end of your test.</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">Take the free online hearing test now.</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">We are open.  We're happy to help if you have any hearing related questions.  Please call 1300 761 021</div>

<p>As audiologists we understand the vital importance of hearing for your wellbeing and quality of life.  With COVID-19 restrictions, more are relying on telephones, video-chats, radio, and television for connecting.  These all depend on good hearing.  Some people with hearing loss are finding the current times particularly challenging.  Also, following a conversation with someone wearing a facemask can be difficult for people with hearing loss.  </p>
<p>Our free online hearing test is ideal for people who are curious to learn more about their hearing.  It may also be a good starting point in this time of COVID-19 as you can do the test in your own home.  This test is a screening test and can identify if there is any significant hearing loss present.  </p>
<p>The free online hearing test consists of an audio test and a short questionnaire.  It has been validated under laboratory conditions and has a good degree of accuracy.  However, it cannot be used for diagnostic purposes.  A diagnostic hearing test must be done using calibrated equipment and in a sound-treated room.</p>
<p>You will get your results instantly when you complete the test online.  If you wish, you can ask that your report is emailed to you.  Of course, at any time you are welcome to contact us if you would like any further information or to book an appointment.  You will be given our contact details at the end of your test.</p>
<p>Take the <a href="https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/hearing-tests/hearing-tests/free-online-hearing-test/" target="_blank">free online hearing test</a> now.</p>
<p>We are open.  We're happy to help if you have any hearing related questions.  Please call 1300 761 021</p> Mon, 25 May 2020 15:00:00 +1000 https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/blog/free-online-hearing-test/ https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/blog/safety-of-our-clients-and-staff-is-paramount-importance-and-our-top-priority/ <p> </p>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">With the recent developments about Coronavirus (COVID-19) we are implementing extra precautions. </div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">We appreciate your understanding of and cooperation with these measures for the health and safety of all our clients and staff.  We apologise for any inconvenience in advance. </div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">What we are doing</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">We have always followed strict hygiene protocols to help prevent the spread of infection to clients and staff.  We have now implemented more measures.  At all clinics, our infection control protocols include:</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;"><span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Hand sanitiser for clients use when entering and leaving the clinic</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;"><span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Hand hygiene for all staff </div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;"><span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>rigorous, frequent and thorough cleaning and disinfection of all high contact areas</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;"><span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>clinical room cleaning of contact surfaces after each client</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;"><span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>use of surgical masks and other protective equipment </div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">We screen all clients prior to their appointment.  When confirming appointments, we ask clients whether they are experiencing any flu-like symptoms such as fever and cough, shortness of breath or sore throat.  If they are, we reschedule appointments allowing at least 14 days until after their symptoms have resolved. </div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">How you can help</div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">Before attending our clinics please let us know if you are experiencing flu-like symptoms such as fever and cough, shortness of breath or sore throat.  </div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">Please contact us on 9415 5858 or email us reception@melbourneaudiolgycentre.com.au for more information or to reschedule your appointments. </div>
<div id="_mcePaste" style="position: absolute; left: -10000px; top: 0px; width: 1px; height: 1px; overflow: hidden;">We ask that you do not attend the clinic until at least 14 days after your symptoms have resolved.  </div>
<p>With the recent developments about Coronavirus (COVID-19) we are implementing extra precautions. </p>
<p>We appreciate your understanding of and cooperation with these measures for the health and safety of all our clients and staff.  We apologise for any inconvenience in advance. </p>
<p><strong>What we are doing</strong></p>
<p>We have always followed strict hygiene protocols to help prevent the spread of infection to clients and staff.  We have now implemented more measures.  At all clinics, our infection control protocols include:</p>
<p><span style="white-space: pre;"> - </span>Hand sanitiser for clients use when entering and leaving the clinic</p>
<p><span style="white-space: pre;"><span style="white-space: pre;"> - </span></span>Hand hygiene for all staff</p>
<p><span style="white-space: pre;"> - </span>Rigorous, frequent and thorough cleaning and disinfection of all high contact areas</p>
<p><span style="white-space: pre;"> - </span>Clinical room cleaning of contact surfaces after each client</p>
<p><span style="white-space: pre;"><span style="white-space: pre;"> - </span>U</span>se of surgical masks and other protective equipment </p>
<p>We screen all clients prior to their appointment.  When confirming appointments, we ask clients whether they are experiencing any flu-like symptoms such as fever and cough, shortness of breath or sore throat.  If they are, we reschedule appointments allowing at least 14 days until after their symptoms have resolved. </p>
<p><strong>How you can help</strong></p>
<p>Before attending our clinics please let us know if you are experiencing flu-like symptoms such as fever and cough, shortness of breath or sore throat.  </p>
<p>Please contact us on 9415 5858 or email us reception@melbourneaudiolgycentre.com.au for more information or to reschedule your appointments. </p>
<p>We ask that you do not attend the clinic until at least 14 days after your symptoms have resolved.  </p> Thu, 19 Mar 2020 11:50:21 +1100 https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/blog/safety-of-our-clients-and-staff-is-paramount-importance-and-our-top-priority/ https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/blog/happier-healthier-and-wealthier-with-hearing-aids/ <p>People who treat their hearing loss with hearing aids are happier, healthier and wealthier compared to people who do not use hearing aids.  These are results found in a report “hearing loss – numbers and costs” published by hear-it AISBL*.</p>
<p>The main findings are:</p>
<ul><li>Hearing aid user earn significantly more than non-users</li>
<li>Unemployment rates from non-users are approximately twice those of hearing aid users</li>
<li>Early retirement and less demanding jobs are more common if you an untreated hearing loss.  This also means that the average income of people with hearing loss is below that of people with normal hearing</li>
<li>Hearing aid users report improvements in their overall quality of life and that hearing aids have a positive impact on their family relationships.  Untreated hearing loss can lead to depression, loneliness and social isolation.  It can also have multiple effects on personal and family relationships.</li>
<li>Hearing aids another hearing solutions such as implants have a positive impact on general health. Such as less physical and mental exhaustion, better sleep, less depression and better memory than non-users</li>
</ul><p>Please <a href="https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/enquiry-and-locations/manual-online-enquiry/">contact us</a> if you are interested in the latest hearing aids.</p>
<p> </p>
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<p>*<em>Reference: </em><em>https://www.hear-it.org/sites/default/files/BS%20-%20report%20files/HearitReportHearingLossNumbersandCosts.pdf</em></p> Wed, 11 Mar 2020 11:50:21 +1100 https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/blog/happier-healthier-and-wealthier-with-hearing-aids/ https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/blog/can-hearing-aids-slow-down-dementia/ <p>The answer is yes.  A recent study<sup>1</sup> showed that using hearing aids is associated with slowing cognitive decline.   </p>
<p>There are 47 million people with dementia worldwide.  The impacts of dementia on people and their families are significant.  The costs of treating dementia are high.</p>
<p>The Lancet<sup>2</sup> modelled nine modifiable risk factors at distinct stages of life for dementia – see diagram.   A modifiable risk factor means that you can change it and reduce the risk.  If you cut all the modifiable risk factors there would be a 35% reduction in new cases of dementia.  The effects of this would be enormous.</p>
<p>The modifiable risk factors for dementia at different life stages are:</p>
<ul><li>low educational level in childhood, </li>
<li>hearing loss, hypertension, obesity in mid-life,</li>
<li>smoking, depression, physical inactivity, social isolation and diabetes in late life.</li>
</ul><p>Mid-life hearing loss is a significant risk factor for dementia.  In fact, hearing loss is the biggest modifiable risk factor for dementia.  The reason why hearing loss is a major risk factor is because of its prevalence.  Thirty-two percent of people over 50 year of age have hearing loss.  Treating hearing loss would reduce the number of new cases of dementia by 9%. </p>
<p>Research has shown hearing aids improve the quality of life for people with hearing loss.  Hearing aids also improve;</p>
<ul><li>communication </li>
<li>engagement in conversation</li>
<li>Social participation</li>
</ul><p>They also reduce isolation and depression.</p>
<p>The study<sup>1</sup> found a link between hearing aid use and slower cognitive decline.  The authors hypothesize two mechanisms to explain the link with hearing aid use.</p>
<ol><li>A reduction of depression and increase in social engagement.  An increase in activity and/or self-efficacy.</li>
<li>The second is a neuro-biological mechanism.  Hearing aids may reduce the negative impacts of sensory deprivation of the brain. </li>
</ol><p>Treating hearing loss will reduce your risks for dementia.</p>
<p>The prevalence of hearing loss is high for people over 50 years of age.  Thus, it is important that anyone over the age of 50 has their hearing checked.  Or if you already suspect a hearing loss, you should have a hearing assessment by an audiologist.</p>
<p>At Melbourne Audiology Centre, if you are over 50, the hearing screening is free.  The free hearing screen will show if you have a hearing loss or not.  We will recommend a hearing assessment if you don't pass the hearing screening.  A hearing assessment takes 1hour.  Your audiologist will determine the degree and type of hearing loss.  They will explain the results to you, and they will make recommendations for the treatment of any hearing loss found.  It also includes a report to your GP.</p>
<p>Please <a href="https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/home/online-enquiry/" target="_blank">contact us</a> to arrange you hearing assessment.</p>
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<p><img src="http://www.thelancet.com/pb/assets/raw/Lancet/infographics/dementia-2017/dementia_infog_600w.jpg" width="600px"/></p>
<p> </p>
<p>References:</p>
<p>1. <a href="https://www.hearingreview.com/hearing-loss/hearing-loss-prevention/risk-factors/evidence-hearing-aids-slow-cognitive-decline-later-life">https://www.hearingreview.com/hearing-loss/hearing-loss-prevention/risk-factors/evidence-hearing-aids-slow-cognitive-decline-later-life</a></p>
<p> 2. <a href="https://www.thelancet.com/commissions/dementia2017">https://www.thelancet.com/commissions/dementia2017</a></p> Fri, 28 Feb 2020 08:30:00 +1100 https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/blog/can-hearing-aids-slow-down-dementia/ https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/blog/stubborn-parent-who-won-t-listen-could-it-be-hearing-loss/ <p>A friend told me a story about a “stubborn” father.  This friend, let’s call her Anne, was invited to a Christmas lunch.   There were about 30 family and friends at the lunch, including the older parents of the host of the party and all their middle-age children. As the lunch progressed, the children started complaining about how stubborn their father was and how he wasn’t listening to anything they said.  Anne, who has known me for many years, said she could “tell straight away that the father had trouble hearing”.</p>
<p>A friend told me a story about a “stubborn” father.  This friend, let’s call her Anne, was invited to a Christmas lunch.   There were about 30 family and friends at the lunch, including the older parents of the host of the party and all their middle-age children. As the lunch progressed, the children started complaining about how stubborn their father was and how he wasn’t listening to anything they said.  Anne, who has known me for many years, said she could “tell straight away that the father had trouble hearing”.  She was surprised that none of the adult children suspected a hearing loss. They thought he was a stubborn old man choosing not to listen.  Often this stubbornness becomes apparent at times of family get-togethers, like Christmas, and it can be painful to everyone concerned when a parent is resisting any suggestions or advice.  Later in the day, Anne spoke to the son privately and told him about her suspicions and suggested a hearing test.   Sure enough, it turns out the father had a significant hearing loss.</p>
<p>Hearing loss occurs gradually with ageing and because it’s so gradual it can be missed.  Some behaviors that could be due to hearing loss include:</p>
<ul><li>stubbornness and not listening </li>
<li>dominating a conversation so you don’t need to listen</li>
<li>cognitive decline or beginnings of dementia</li>
<li>isolating oneself from social events</li>
<li>not engaging in conversion and being withdrawn </li>
<li>tiredness</li>
<li>not participating at family/friend events</li>
<li>depression</li>
</ul><p>If a loved one or someone you know is exhibiting these kinds of behaviours, they should have a hearing test.  Hearing loss is common in people over 50. If there is a hearing loss, help is available.  Please <a href="https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/enquiry-and-locations/manual-online-enquiry/" target="_blank">contact us </a>to arrange a hearing test with one of our audiologists.</p>
<p> </p> Mon, 20 Jan 2020 13:11:35 +1100 https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/blog/stubborn-parent-who-won-t-listen-could-it-be-hearing-loss/ https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/blog/transforming-hearing-aids-into-bluetooth-headsets/ <p>Users of iPhone 5 or newer smartphones have been able to stream voice and music to compatible hearing aids for a few years.  Resound were the first hearing aid manufacturer to release ‘Made for iPhone’ devices.   Today most hearing aid brands have hearing aids ‘Made for iPhone’ which has been great for iPhone users.  They have been able to stream voice calls and music directly to the hearing aids without the need of an intermediary device.   Which has not been the case for Android user - up to now.  Android users could stream voice and music but had to use of an intermediary device called a streamer.  Some have not liked this as it meant having the streamer on a lanyard around your neck of clipped to clothing.</p>
<p>Users of iPhone 5 or newer smartphones have been able to stream voice and music to compatible hearing aids for a few years.  Resound were the first hearing aid manufacturer to release ‘Made for iPhone’ devices.   Today most hearing aid brands have hearing aids ‘Made for iPhone’ which has been great for iPhone users.  They have been able to stream voice calls and music directly to the hearing aids without the need of an intermediary device.   Which has not been the case for Android user - up to now.  Android users could stream voice and music but had to use of an intermediary device called a streamer.  Some have not liked this as it meant having the streamer on a lanyard around your neck of clipped to clothing.</p>
<p>New on the market in the last couple of months are two hearing aids that can receive voice calls and music directly from the new Android 10 smartphones.  This functionality has not been available for Android users before.  This is because, for direct streaming of voice calls and music, two things must happen.  The smartphone needs a Bluetooth protocol for streaming to the hearing aids and the hearing aids must be able to receive the Bluetooth signal. </p>
<p>People who wear Made for Android hearing aids and have an Android 10 smartphone will be able to stream voice calls and music directly to their hearing aids.  This will make the hearing aids function like a Bluetooth headset.  Not only will they make voice calls clearer they will allow handsfree use of the smartphone when driving.</p>
<p>In September, Android released their new protocol called 'Audio Streaming for Hearing Aids' (ASHA).  The streaming is done over Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE).  This means the hearing aids and phone can have enough battery power to get through an entire day.  The ASHA protocol is available in Android 10 smartphones.  This includes the; Pixel3, Pixel 3 XL, Pixel 3a, Pixel 3a XL and Pixel 4 smartphones.</p>
<p>Hearing aids that can receive the ASHA Bluetooth are labelled ‘Made for Android’ hearing aids.  The current ‘Made for Android’ hearing aids are the; <a href="https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/hearing-aids-2/latest-hearing-aids/starkey-livio-ai/" target="_blank">Starkey Livio</a> and the Resound LiNX Quattro.   Other brands will release their versions in the next few months.  The Cochlear Nucleus 7 Sound Processor is also compatible with the Android 10 smartphones.    </p>
<p>With the release of the ASHA protocol, Android 10 users like their iPhone counterparts, can now stream voice and music directly without the need for an intermediary device.</p>
<p>We are incredibly pleased to now be able to offer the direct to hearing aid voice call and music streaming to all clients with compatible smartphones.</p>
<p>The exciting thing for us is that we can now offer more of our clients direct streaming from their smartphones.  For example, the Starkey Livio AI is the Made for iPhone and Made for Android.  It is also available in the latest Li-Ion rechargeable model.  Combined with advances in processing, artificial intelligence and more, today’s hearing aid user gets a host of new benefits.  he Starkey Livio AI benefits include:</p>
<ul><li>direct streaming of voice calls and music from iPhone 5 and above and Android 10 smartphones.</li>
<li>Li-Ion rechargeable models giving the convenience and ease of full days use on an overnight charge.</li>
<li>high speed, high definition computer processing to help replicate natural hearing which results in less ‘listening effort’.  Listening effort relates to how much you need to concentrate to understand a speaker.</li>
<li>3D motion sensors on the hearing aid can track physical activity and detect falls.</li>
<li>Artificial intelligence (this is what the AI stands for).  They can learn and perform tasks including;
<ul><li>letting you turn streaming on and off by simply tapping your ear instead of your hearing aids.</li>
<li><span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>translating languages.</li>
<li><span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>tracking and measuring body and brain health.</li>
</ul></li>
</ul><p>We have the latest hearing aids with the latest technology and features that will give users not only better hearing but a host of other features and functionality.</p>
<p>Please <a href="https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/enquiry-and-locations/manual-online-enquiry/">contact us</a> if you are interested in the latest hearing aids.</p>
<p> </p> Mon, 16 Dec 2019 15:50:21 +1100 https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/blog/transforming-hearing-aids-into-bluetooth-headsets/ https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/blog/could-hearing-loss-be-affecting-grandparent-grandchild-relationships/ <p>Grandparents and great-grandparents play a vital role in the lives of their grandchildren.  This is more so if they spend considerable time with them.  During their time together they may do a range of activities.  These include;</p>
<ul><li>playing games,</li>
<li>family events, </li>
<li>telling stories, </li>
<li>watching TV/movies together </li>
<li>looking for and giving advice and more.</li>
</ul><p>Grandparents and great-grandparents play a vital role in the lives of their grandchildren.  This is more so if they spend considerable time with them.  During their time together they may do a range of activities.  These include;</p>
<ul><li>playing games,</li>
<li>family events, </li>
<li>telling stories, </li>
<li>watching TV/movies together </li>
<li>looking for and giving advice and more.</li>
</ul><p>Conversations are prominent in all these activities.  Good hearing is a critical factor in successful conversations.  Research shows that hearing loss can lead to conversation breakdown, frustrations and isolation in the longer term. </p>
<p><strong>Could hearing loss be affecting your relationship with a grandparent or a grandchild?</strong></p>
<h2>Age-related hearing loss</h2>
<p>Presbycusis or age-related hearing loss occurs in both ears.  As people age, the incidence of hearing loss increases.  Age-related hearing loss begins after the age of 55.  One in three people between the ages of 65-75 have hearing loss and half of those over 75 have hearing loss.</p>
<p>Age-related hearing loss arises from complex changes in the ear or the hearing nerve.  We simplify it by saying it’s due to ‘wear and tear’ on the ears.  Conditions that are more prominent in older people can contribute to hearing loss.  These conditions include;</p>
<ul><li>high blood pressure, </li>
<li>cardiovascular disease </li>
<li>diabetes </li>
<li>some medications that are toxic to the ears such as chemotherapy drugs.</li>
</ul><p>Exposure to loud noise at any age can damage the sensory hearing cells in the ear.  This noise-induced hearing loss can be difficult to distinguish from age-related hearing loss in an older person.</p>
<p>Many factors may contribute to hearing loss in older people.</p>
<h2>Signs that your grandparents may have a hearing loss.</h2>
<p>Older grandchildren may notice that their grandparents have a hearing loss.  Or they may feel that that their relationship with them has changed.  Signs an older person may have hearing loss include:</p>
<ul><li>they misunderstand words</li>
<li>they ask you to repeat things</li>
<li>they are not themselves</li>
<li>they have stopped taking part in conversations at family get-togethers or restaurant</li>
<li>they seem less social </li>
<li>they seem more exhausted or tired</li>
<li>you can’t watch TV with them because the volume is too high</li>
<li>they can’t hear on the phone</li>
</ul><h2>Why are my grandchildren mumbling?</h2>
<p>Age-related hearing loss occurs gradually, and in the first stages some people may not be aware of it.  Age related hearing loss affects the hearing for the high pitch sounds to begin with.  High pitch speech sounds include ‘s’, ‘f’, ‘th’ and ‘sh’ and these are usually softer than other speech sounds.  An inability to hear these can make speech sound muffled.  Often people will say that they can hear and its others that mumble.  Young children tend to have higher pitch and softer voices.  This makes it harder for people with hearing loss to understand what they are saying. </p>
<p>Untreated hearing loss can affect the special relationship between grandparents and grandchildren.</p>
<h2>What to do if you suspect hearing loss.</h2>
<p>A hearing problem can be serious.  The most important thing you can do is to seek advice from an audiologist or your GP.</p>
<p>An audiologist is university qualified and trained in finding and measuring hearing loss.  They will determine the type and degree of hearing loss.  In Australia, audiologists also treat age-related or noise-induced hearing losses.  They treat these types of hearing losses by fitting the right hearing aids.  They supply support and counselling to encourage successful hearing aid use.  The audiologists at Melbourne Audiology Centre fit the latest technology hearing aids.  Hearing aids will make sounds louder and speech clearer.  The audiologist will explain the predicted outcome with hearing aids.  This will depend on the degree of hearing loss and the technology in the hearing aids.  Hearing aids will help you to hear better.  But they cannot correct the underlying hearing loss.  Today's digital hearing aids supply better speech clarity and comfort in noisy places.  A critical factor in successful hearing aid use is a commitment to wearing the hearing aids.  Another factor is persevering through the change process.  It takes 4 to 6 weeks for the brain to become acclimatised to hearing sounds again.</p>
<h2>Free hearing tests.</h2>
<p>In Australia, if you are a pensioner or veteran you may be eligible for free hearing services.  <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/rebates-on-hearing-aids-2/free-pensioners-and-veterans-hearing-aids/" target="_blank">Read more about the Governments Hearing Services Program here</a></span>.  We can help you with any questions on this program, please contact us on 1300 761 021.</p>
<p>If you are over 55, we offer a <strong>free hearing screening test</strong> that will show whether you have a hearing loss or not.  We will recommend a hearing assessment if you have hearing loss.  The hearing assessment will determine the degree and type of hearing.  And your audiologists will make recommendations.  The hearing assessment takes 1hr and costs $175.  A Medicare rebate may be available with a referral to Melbourne Audiology Centre from a GP.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>If you suspect hearing loss, please contact us.  Call 1300 761 021 to make an appointment or for information. </strong></p>
<hr/><p> </p> Wed, 20 Nov 2019 12:48:09 +1100 https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/blog/could-hearing-loss-be-affecting-grandparent-grandchild-relationships/ https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/blog/everything-you-need-to-know-about-hearing-loss-melbourne-audiology-centre/ <p>Everything you need to know about hearing loss; signs and symptoms, why you should have your hearing tested and available rebates, funding or compensation. Hearing loss is a common condition that affects an estimated 3.6 million Australians (2017 data).  In Australia, hearing loss is the second most common health condition following musculoskeletal disease. In fact it is more common than asthma, heart disease, cancer and diabetes.</p>
<p>The prevalence of hearing loss increases with age and more males (2.2 million) have hearing loss compared to females (1.4 million).  Prevalence is on the rise with estimates that 1 in 4 Australians will have hearing loss by 2050 largely due to an aging population and increasing exposure to dangerous noise levels.</p>
<p>The main causes of hearing loss in the adult population are age and noise exposure. Age related hearing loss is a gradual and irreversible decline in hearing function – called presbyacusis.  It is characterised by a hearing loss in the high pitches.  Noise induced hearing loss is caused by the repeated exposure to loud sounds and is largely preventable.  Noise affects hearing in the mid and high pitches.  At Melbourne Audiology Centre (MAC), we see a large number of people with ‘industrial deafness’.  Industrial deafness is a noise-induced hearing loss caused by repeated exposure to loud noise at work.  We also see people with both age related hearing loss and a history of repeated loud noise exposure resulting in a very significant hearing loss for their age and an increasing number of younger people with noise induced hearing loss related to their lifestyle choices such as listening to very loud music.</p>
<h2>When should I have my hearing tested?</h2>
<p>Given the high prevalence of hearing loss and that the most common causes of hearing loss are age and noise, we advise that anyone over 50 and anyone who has had significant exposure to loud noise, to have their hearing tested.  However, you should have your hearing tested if you have any concerns or signs of hearing loss.  I have listed the signs and symptom of hearing loss further in this blog.</p>
<p>So now you have decided to have your hearing tested, the next obvious question is, how much is a hearing test (see below in this blog) and can I have a free hearing test as I’ve seen advertised.</p>
<h2>Can I have a free hearing test?</h2>
<p>At Melbourne Audiology Centre there a couple of ways to have a free hearing test,</p>
<ol><li>If you are a pensioner or veteran, you may be eligible for fully subsidised (free) hearing tests and hearing aids.  Please contact us on 1300 761 021 for more information.  We can advise you on your eligibility and answer your questions</li>
<li>We offer a free quick hearing screening test for anyone over 50 years of age or anyone with significant amounts of exposure to loud noise at work.  During this quick free test, we will check your hearing and determine if you have a hearing loss or not.  If we do identify a hearing loss, we will advise you on the next steps and on whether you are eligible for any rebates, funding for the hearing test or if you can lodge workers compensation claim.  Quite often, the audiologist will recommend you have a comprehensive hearing test.  Please read more on what happens in a comprehensive hearing test and why you need to book one further in this blog.  We also discuss the prices if you are self-funded.</li>
</ol><h2>Quick questionnaire to check if you might have hearing loss</h2>
<p>There are a number of signs and symptoms of hearing loss.  It is important to have a hearing test if you have any of the following signs or symptoms:</p>
<ul><li>your hearing is muffled,</li>
<li>your ears feel blocked,</li>
<li>you’re frequently asking others to repeat themselves,</li>
<li>you turn up the volume of the TV higher than others,</li>
<li>you think others mumble,</li>
<li>you have difficulty understanding speech on the phone,</li>
<li>you find it difficult understanding words in conversation, particularly when in background noise such as at restaurants and family gatherings,</li>
<li>you have difficulty attending to a conversation,</li>
<li>you frequently have trouble following the conversation when in a group and the conversation quickly moves from one person to the next, e.g., in meeting or at the dinner table,</li>
<li>you don’t participate in activities that you have trouble hearing at and you isolate yourself</li>
<li>you speak too loudly or too softly,</li>
<li>you have been exposed to loud noise at work or leisure activities,</li>
<li>you experience ear infections or blocked feeling in one or both ears,</li>
<li>you take certain medication such as strong antibiotics or chemotherapy.</li>
</ul><p>There is significant amount of scientific evidence that treating hearing loss as early as possible has many benefits. <strong>Please call us on 1300 761 021 or <a href="https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/enquiry-and-locations/enquiry-and-book-appointment/">book and appointment online</a></strong> </p>
<h2>When should I have my hearing tested?</h2>
<p>People over the age of 50 should have a hearing test every 3 years or sooner if they notice any changes in their hearing or have any of the signs or symptoms listed above. Untreated hearing loss may lead to:</p>
<ul><li> feelings of anxiety, social isolation, embarrassment and even depression</li>
<li>communication difficulties at work with your colleagues, clients or the public.  Which in turn can lead to under-employment, unemployment and loss of income</li>
<li>auditory deprivation which results in a loss of understanding of speech over time</li>
</ul><p>Untreated hearing loss is linked to dementia. Research shows that people with a mild hearing loss are twice as likely to develop dementia, as compared to those with normal hearing. Treating hearing loss with well-fitted hearing aids enables more social engagement and participation that in turn reduces the rate of cognitive decline and dementia. At Melbourne Audiology Centre, all of our audiologists use an evidence-based approach to select the best hearing aid solutions for our clients so that they can obtain optimal hearing and communication outcomes. The latest hearing aids include; convenient rechargeable battery models, tiny invisible-in-the-canal styles, Bluetooth hearing aids that connect to mobile phones wirelessly and hearing aids that can detect falls, measure your mind and body health. We know about all the latest advances in hearing aids and can help you find the best hearing aid solution for your needs and budget.</p>
<p><strong>If you have any concerns about your hearing, please schedule an appointment for a hearing test at any of our hearing clinic locations: Melbourne CBD, Fitzroy, Sunshine, Werribee, Taylors Lakes, Thomastown, Templestowe, Dandenong, and Bentleigh.  Please call us on 1300 761 021 or <a href="https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/enquiry-and-locations/enquiry-and-book-appointment/">book and appointment online</a></strong></p>
<h2>How is my hearing tested?</h2>
<p>One of our qualified hearing healthcare professionals will test your hearing.  At Melbourne Audiology Centre, we conduct the hearing test in a soundproof booth or in a noise treated quiet room depending on the location of the clinic.  At all of our clinic locations the testing is done under conditions that meet the relevant Australian Standard (<em>AS/NZS 1269.4:2014; M</em>aximum acceptable background noise levels) for hearing tests.  The testing is also done with audiometric equipment that is calibrated to the required standards. It is important that all testing is done meeting both ambient noise and equipment calibration standards so; the hearing test is accurate; the hearing can be accurately monitored over time; the hearing test can be compared with one done elsewhere and the test meets the professional and ethical requirements for an audiology professional.<br/>You can be confident that you will have an accurate hearing test at MAC.  Our comprehensive hearing test takes 1hour and includes:</p>
<ul><li>your hearing history  and medical history so we can better understand any medical issues that could be affecting your hearing</li>
<li>your current hearing and communication ability and the difficulties you may be experiencing</li>
<li>otoscopic examination of your outer ear, ear canal and eardrum, that provides information about the physical status of the ear canal and eardrum.  Abnormal findings include; wax occlusion, foreign objects, infections, discharge from the middle ear, and perforation of the eardrum</li>
<li>pure-tone audiometry (hearing test) which consists of air conduction testing and bone conduction testing.  We use headphone or earphones to perform the air conduction testing and a small device that sits behind your ear for the bone conduction testing.  The tests are not painful or uncomfortable.  For both tests, you will hear a series of beeps and you need to indicate when you hear the beeps in each ear.  The beeps will be at various levels of loudness and at different pitches.  The audiologist will plot the softest sound you hear on a graph called an Audiogram. The Audiogram enables the audiologist to diagnose the type and degree of hearing loss.  There are three types of hearing loss, conductive, sensorineural (sometimes called ‘nerve deafness’ and mixed hearing loss.  Your audiologist will classify the degree of hearing loss as mild, moderate, severe or profound and describe according to which pitch/s are affected, for example, the hearing loss may be ‘a moderate, high pitch, sensorineural hearing loss.’  Your audiologist will explain your hearing loss to you in detail.  Some people want to know the percentage of hearing loss.  Your audiologist will calculate percentage of hearing loss only if you want to lodge a workers compensation claim for hearing loss.  Percentage hearing loss is used to determine the amount and type of workers compensation you may receive for a claim.  Percentage hearing loss it is not the normal way an audiologist will describe a hearing loss.</li>
<li>speech audiometry, a test that measures your ability to hear and understand speech presented at various levels.  You will wear headphones or earphones for this test.  Your audiologist will ask you to repeat a series of words played to you at various volumes.  The words may become quite soft and it is important to guess the word if you do not hear it properly.  The audiologist will compare the results of this test with the results from pure-tone audiometry in order to build a more comprehensive picture of what is happening with your hearing</li>
<li>tympanometry and acoustic reflexes testing that provides a measure of middle ear status, eardrum movement and more.  The middle ear is an air-filled cavity behind the eardrum that contains the smallest bones in the body- the malleus, incus and stapes.  The bones form the ‘ossicular chain’ that transmits sound from the eardrum to the cochlear or hearing organ via sound vibrations.  Tympanometry can identify certain middle ear conditions such as perforation of the eardrum, the presence of middle ear fluid, Eustachian tube dysfunction or conditions of the ossicular chain such as otosclerosis or ossicular chain discontinuation.  We also may conduct acoustic reflex testing which provides additional information about the middle ear and inner ear, the auditory and facial nerves and the brainstem.  Tympanometry and acoustic reflex testing are used to confirm the type of hearing loss you have i.e., conductive, sensorineural or mixed</li>
<li>a review by your audiologist of all your test results alongside other information such as your hearing and medical history  in order to make an accurate diagnosis of the type of hearing loss and whether it is linked with any medical conditions.  Your audiologist will explain the results to you and answer your questions</li>
<li>recommendations and a discussion about the next steps depending on what the results show.  If you have a hearing loss, your audiologist will discuss treatment options, which may range from communication strategies, hearing aids and other assistive devices to a referral to your GP or a medical specialist if warranted</li>
<li>management of your hearing loss by your audiologist, age or noise related hearing loss is a permanent hearing loss that your audiologist can treat non-medically using hearing aids and devices.  The audiologist will conduct a communication and hearing needs assessment to identify specific situations in which you would like to hear and communicate better.  They will ask you about your preferences regarding the look and feel of the hearing aid and they will talk to you about funding options and prices.  In Australia, the Federal governments ‘Hearing services program’ provides fully subsidised hearing tests and hearing aids to eligible pensioners, veterans and other clients</li>
<li>a report to your managing GP if the GP has referred you to us or if you request that we do so.</li>
</ul><h2>What is the price of a hearing test?</h2>
<p>Self-funded clients, the price for the 1hr comprehensive hearing assessment is $175. Medicare rebates of up to approx. $59 are available with a GP referral to Melbourne Audiology Centre at most of our locations, </p>
<p>Pensioners and veterans may be eligible for free hearing assessments and fully and partially subsidised hearing aid/s under the Government's Hearing Services Program (formerly OHS). Contact us on 1300 761 021 for more information.</p>
<p><span style="color: #10a3d4; font-size: 1.6em;">How do I book a hearing test?</span></p>
<p>If you have any concerns about your hearing, please schedule an appointment for a hearing test at any of our hearing clinic locations: Melbourne CBD, Fitzroy, Sunshine, Werribee, Taylors Lakes, Thomastown, Templestowe, Dandenong, and Bentleigh.</p>
<p><strong>Please call us on 1300 761 021 or <a href="https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/enquiry-and-locations/enquiry-and-book-appointment/">book and appointment online</a></strong></p> Wed, 14 Aug 2019 22:36:09 +1000 https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/blog/everything-you-need-to-know-about-hearing-loss-melbourne-audiology-centre/ https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/blog/the-new-opn-s-hearing-aids-have-ground-breaking-technology-to-control-the-risk-of-annoying-whistling/ <p>Around mid-March 2019, Oticon launched their latest hearing aids called the Opn S.  They are an update of the very popular Opn family of aids which we have been successfully fitting since July 2016 and have many satisfied users.</p>
<p>We are excited as the Opn S has a number of new state of the art technology upgrades including a new feedback control system. Feedback is the annoying whistling that can sometimes occur with hearing aids.  Feedback happens when the amplified sound from the hearing aid escapes from the ear canal and is picked up by the hearing aid and amplified again.  The whistling may occur when the hearing aid user gives someone a hug and vice versa or when they put their phone next to their ear.</p>
<p>In order to control the feedback the amplification for soft speech sounds in the hearing aid is sometimes reduced. These soft sounds need to be heard in order to get optimal speech clarity.  According to Oticon, the Opn S feedback control system has ground-breaking new technology that delivers 30% more soft speech sounds to the brain. This along with the other new technologies in the Opn S hearing aids has led to a significant increase of speech understanding.  In fact, Oticon research shows users of the Opn S hearing aids can experience speech understanding on par with people who have normal hearing in noisy environments^.</p>
<p>In addition, the advances in feedback technology in the new Opn S also mean that we can fit more people with comfortable fitting hearing aids. The risk of hearing aids whistling rises with increasing degrees of hearing loss and is also influenced by the amount of venting in the hearing aid. We always aim to provide the maximum amount of venting because this is a more comfortable experience overall and delivers a more natural sound quality.  The Opn S with its new feedback control system enables us to provide additional venting without annoying whistling.</p>
<p align="center"><strong>Are you ready to try the latest digital hearing aid technology?</strong></p>
<p>Whether you are new to hearing aids, or looking to upgrade you current aids, the newest hearing aid technology may be able to meet your listening and communication needs.  Our experienced audiological team can advise you on the best hearing aid solution that will meet your listening and communication needs and goals.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/enquiry-and-locations/enquiry-and-book-appointment/" target="_blank">Contact us now</a> to arrange a risk free trial of the Opn S hearing aids.</p>
<p><em>^ * Juul Jensen 2018, Oticon Whitepaper, Oticon Opn S 1</em></p>
<hr/><p> </p> Fri, 12 Apr 2019 10:10:39 +1000 https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/blog/the-new-opn-s-hearing-aids-have-ground-breaking-technology-to-control-the-risk-of-annoying-whistling/ https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/blog/patient-centred-care/ <p>When addressing hearing problems, science and technology are naturally very important, but a one-size-fits-all approach will only meet the needs of a small number of people.  At Melbourne Audiology Centre we believe in “Patient Centred Care”.  Patient-centred care is health care that is respectful of, and responsive to, the preferences, needs and values of patients and consumers.  This is as much about the <em>culture</em> of the way we provide service, as it is about specific approaches and behaviours.</p>
<p>When addressing hearing problems, science and technology are naturally very important, but a one-size-fits-all approach will only meet the needs of a small number of people.  At Melbourne Audiology Centre we believe in “Patient Centred Care”.  Patient-centred care is health care that is respectful of, and responsive to, the preferences, needs and values of patients and consumers.  This is as much about the <em>culture</em> of the way we provide service, as it is about specific approaches and behaviours. </p>
<p>Many of the foundations of patient centred care are expected in an audiological consultation.  These include performing a hearing test, explaining the results, the fitting of appropriate devices if required, and coordination with other healthcare providers when necessary. But we also feel strongly about supporting the emotional and social needs of our clients.  That is why we will always:</p>
<ol><li><strong>listen</strong> to your individual problems</li>
<li><strong>enquire</strong> about your specific needs</li>
<li><strong>help</strong> you understand the nature and cause of your difficulties</li>
<li><strong>ask</strong> about your preferred way to deal with your problems</li>
<li><strong>consult</strong> with your family members and communication partners</li>
</ol><p>What we won’t do is talk <em>at</em> you</p>
<p>Service is the keystone to patient centred care.  That is why much of the time in our appointments is spent listening to you and your loved one/s.  In order to support our service philosophy we ask that you bring a family member/s or support person along to your appointments as much as is practicable.   In this way we can be responsive to your needs and preferences as well as those of your main communication partners. </p>
<p>This ensures you are central in any clinical decisions, resulting in a respectful relationship between clinician and patient from the very start.</p>
<p>We offer a range of <a href="https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/hearing-tests/hearing-services/" target="_blank">hearing services</a> and <a href="https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/hearing-tests/hearing-services/" target="_blank">products</a>. <a href="https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/home/online-enquiry/" target="_blank">Contact us</a> for any questions or to make your appointment.</p>
<p> </p> Mon, 07 Jan 2019 09:30:18 +1100 https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/blog/patient-centred-care/ https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/blog/travelling-soon-worried-your-hearing-will-be-a-problem/ <p>If you are thinking of travelling adventure but worried your hearing will be a problem, here are some tips to set you on the right path.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/blog/article/travelling-soon-worried-your-hearing-will-be-a-problem">Read More...</a></p><p>If you are thinking of travelling adventure but worried your hearing will be a problem, here are some tips to set you on the right path.</p>
<p>Be prepared – if you think you need hearing aids don’t wait until just before you leave.  A comprehensive hearing aid and rehabilitation process takes time, and you want to be comfortable with your hearing aids before you go.</p>
<p>Bring spares – don’t get caught short on supplies like batteries or cleaning tools.  If you have spare hearing aids bring them in case of breakdowns, loss or theft.</p>
<p>Be tech savvy – there are so many apps to help travellers these days and many of them reduce difficulties that can arise as a result of hearing loss.  Download timetables, maps, and even translating apps to help you find your way and communicate with locals.  Have special phrases written down before you go in the local language such as accommodation addresses or medical needs.</p>
<p>Lastly, enjoy the sounds, sights and feelings around you whilst immersed in another place or culture and relaaaaaaax……</p> Thu, 20 Dec 2018 00:59:49 +1100 https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/blog/travelling-soon-worried-your-hearing-will-be-a-problem/ https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/blog/noise-induced-hearing-loss-nihl/ <p>Noise induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a unique type of hearing loss.  Loud noise affects a particular high frequency part of the cochlear (inner ear) and can cause damage to both the sensory hair cells of the cochlear and the auditory nerves of the ear.  Recent research indicates that exposure to loud noise can cause damage to the auditory nerves well before a hearing loss is identified on the hearing test; this is called ‘hidden hearing loss’. </p>
<p>Repeated exposure to loud noise will lead to a hearing loss that is permanent.</p>
<p>At Melbourne Audiology Centre, we have been helping workers -who have noise induced hearing loss - to hear better for more than 15 years.  The workers/ex-workers we see usually have an accepted WorkCover claim for hearing loss and are eligible for hearing aids to assist them with their difficulties in hearing and participating.  Under the various WorkCover programs, we can offer a range of hearing aids that will meet the needs of our clients who have NIHL.</p>
<p>“As an audiologist, for a NIHL I would consider hearing aids that have a high number of channels so I can better fit the steeply sloping audiogram and I would look for hearing aids that have special sound processing that could best amplify speech and reduce background noise.  This is because people with NIHL tend to have more difficulties understanding speech in noise compared to people who have other types of hearing loss.  The reduced understanding of speech is a direct result of the damage that noise can cause to both the cochlear hair cells and the auditory nerves” (Mary – audiologist at MAC).</p>
<p>If you have worked in loud noise and you think you may have a hearing loss please <a class="" href="https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/contact/" target="_blank">contact</a> us for more information.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><img class="center" src="https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/assets/_resampled/resizedimage600314-Noise-induced-Hearing-loss.png" width="600" height="314" alt="" title=""/></p> Thu, 01 Nov 2018 14:50:00 +1100 https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/blog/noise-induced-hearing-loss-nihl/ https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/blog/siya-hearing-aids/ <p><strong>Our audiologist (Kath) talks about her first fitting of the new Siya hearing aids. </strong></p>
<p>I fitted my first pair of the Oticon Siya 1 hearing aids recently and the response from my client has been terrific even after one day of use.</p>
<p>At the initial fitting appointment, I programmed the new Siya hearing aids to my clients hearing loss and his first impression of the sound quality was great – he thought they sounded very natural.  This early acceptance of the sound quality is what I would expect with this hearing aid as it uses the same digital processing platform as the Oticon Opn hearing aids, which I know have similar immediate acceptance of sound.  During this appointment, I added extra programs to the hearing aids based on my clients listening needs.  He will use the programs in certain and specific listening situations including listening to music. </p>
<p>My client emailed me the following day to tell me how much he liked the hearing aids, he typed; “Siya are terrific.  Some minor adjustments, but otherwise really good.”  I am so pleased that after a day of use I have already received such positive feedback on the hearing aids performance.  I will be seeing my client again for his review appointment in a couple of weeks when I will learn more about his experience with his hearing aids.  Based on what he reports I may need to fine-tune the programming as required to meet his needs better.</p>
<p>The Siya hearing aids also directly connect to his iPhone without the need for him to wear a Bluetooth intermediary device.  His new hearing aids act like wireless earphones and he can have a clear conversation on the phone hands-free.  My client was thrilled with the fact that it was so easy and he didn’t need to use another device in order to hear on his phone.</p>
<p>Book an appointment to see one of our audiologists about the best hearing aid solution for your hearing needs and budget.  We offer a range of hearing aid solutions and payment plans.</p> Tue, 25 Sep 2018 15:50:50 +1000 https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/blog/siya-hearing-aids/ https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/blog/phonak-virto-b-titanium-hearing-aid/ <p>The Phonak Virto B- Titanium is a tiny Invisible In the Canal (IIC) hearing aid which is 15 times stronger than standard acrylic IIC hearing aids.</p><p>The Phonak Virto B- Titanium is a tiny Invisible In the Canal (IIC) hearing aid which is 15 times stronger than standard acrylic IIC hearing aids.  In addition, because the titanium doesn’t need to be as thick, and due to the modification of the chip and the microphone, Phonak have made this IIC 26% smaller compared to a standard acrylic IIC. </p>
<p>We have several clients who are looking for an invisible hearing aid solution for their hearing and communication needs and the IIC is a great solution.  However, the size and shape of the ear canal are critical factor in determining whether an IIC can be made and we feel awful when we must disappoint a significant number of our clients because their ear canal size and shape doesn’t meet size requirements.  Now with the Phonak Virto B Titanium IIC, because it is significantly smaller (26%) we can fit people with smaller ear canals who would not have had the option in the past.</p>
<p>Many people, require an invisible hearing aid solution to have the confidence to wear and use a hearing aid at all.  For others whilst having an invisible solution is important their main requirement may be to have a hearing aid that is more practical to match their active lifestyle.   People who do a lot of exercise, dancing, yoga etc may find the IIC hearing aid solution more practical as being within the ear canal it will not move around or be as prone to perspiration as a hearing aid style that goes ‘Behind-the-ear’ (BTE).</p>
<p>We are excited to be able to offer and fit these tiny IIC hearing aids to more of our clients who are looking for an invisible hearing aid solutions.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><iframe src="https://players.brightcove.net/753371577001/default_default/index.html?videoId=5349598520001" frameborder="0"></p></iframe></p> Thu, 16 Aug 2018 12:27:42 +1000 https://www.melbourneaudiologycentre.com.au/blog/phonak-virto-b-titanium-hearing-aid/