Hearing aids and other amplification devices vary in style, technology and price.  We believe that regardless of age, hearing aids

should be selected and fit based solely on what each individual requires.  Every person has demands on their hearing that are unique to them. The types of listening environments that the individual spends most of their time in will usually determine what type of hearing instrument is best.    When sound amplification is appropriate, we strive to fit our patients with hearing instruments that meet their specific demands; no more, no less.  In doing so, we often find the most cost-effective way to improve that individuals communication abilities.

If you think that hearing aids or other sound amplification technology may help you, UIC’s Audiologists can assist you in determining what may be right for you. Also, we fit a

wide range of styles, brands and technologies both analogue and the latest in digital devices. Many of our hearing aids also come with a 3 year warranty for loss or damage.

For some individuals, the use of specific listening devices for the telephone and TV, along with the use of effective communication strategies, can make a considerabl

e difference in how that person communicates.  Again, it is our goal to see that each individual receives what is best for his or her lifestyle.

If you have a hearing loss, or have a family member or friend who does, we would like to encourage you to contact one of our staff audiologists. We are more than happy to answer any questions you have regarding hearing loss, hearing aids and other amplification devices.  Please call us. That’s what we’re here for!

  Description: Recommended for:
 

Conventional Tier
  • Single memory
  • Analog signal processing

 
  • Those who are usually not in noisy situations.
  • Those with basic communication demands.

 
 

Tier 4
  • Computer programmable
  • Single memory
  • Digital signal processing

 

 
  • Those who are not usually in noisy situations, but need/want a hearing aid that can be more finely-tuned.
  • Those with basic communication demands.
 

Tier 3
  • Multiple memories
  • Digital signal processing
  • Computer programmable

 
  • Those who occasionally find themselves in noisy situations and/or require more flexibility from their hearing aids.
  • Individuals willing to adjust their hearing aids to different listening programs depending on the listening situation.
  • Those who have slightly higher communication needs.

 
 

Tier 2
  • Non-adaptive directional microphone/expansion for noise reduction.
  • Multiple memories
  • Digital signal processing

 
  • Those who often find themselves in noisy situations and require more flexibility from their hearing aids.
  • Those who are willing to adjust their hearing aids to different listening programs depending on the listening situation.
  • Those who have higher communication demands.

 

 
 

Tier 1
  • Adaptive directional microphone and/or advanced noise reduction
  • Multiple memories
  • Digital signal processing

 
  • Those who find themselves in noisy situations who prefer not to have to adjust their hearing aids often as they move between listening situations.
  • Those who have the highest communication demands.

 
 

Completely In the Canal (CIC)
  • The smallest, least visible hearing aids available

 
  • Those who want their hearing aids to be as discrete as possible.
  • Those willing to put more time/effort into maintenance.
 

Specialized models
  • Models vary depending on patients needs

 
  • Those with high frequency hearing loss only.
  • Those with a history of frequent repairs due to moisture/cerumen problems.
  • Those who have a severe degree of difficulty in noisy situations.

Hearing aid prices vary based on style and technology.  To choose the most appropriate hearing aids, it will be important to consider a number of factors including the degree of hearing loss, your specific communication needs and also, what is appropriate to your budget. When hearing aids are appropriate, we believe in recommending hearing aids according to these criteria.

We’d be happy to discuss options and price ranges with you.

Your individual communication needs will be a strong determining factor for choosing the most appropriate technology.Included in the price of hearing aids is the thorough communication needs assessment, hearing aid programming, and any follow-up visits for fine tuning as needed.

All patients fit with hearing aids will have 30 days to try them, with the option to return them if their expectations are not met.

This is important for a number of reasons. When you first receive your hearing aids, it will take some time and effort to readjust to hearing sounds that you have not heard for a while. This adjustment could take just a few days or up to two weeks. This adjustment time is critical to determine if your hearing aids are providing the level of benefit that we expect. Also, even though we will spend time learning what your specific communication demands are prior to the fitting, it is impossible to predict with complete certainty how you will actually perform on a day-to-day basis.

The trial period will provide the practical experience that you need in order to determine if the hearing aids are right for you. This will also help your audiologist determine if any fine-tuning is necessary.

There are occasions in which the hearing aids do not initially meet the individuals needs. From your experience and feedback, the audiologist may find that your needs can be better addressed with a different style or technology. If so, a second trial with different hearing aids may be suggested. If you find that the hearing aids are not right for you, you can always return them for a refund during the trial period. Keep this in mind!

Remember, the fitting of hearing aids is a process that is most successful when mutual cooperation exists between you, your audiologist and your family. Because communication is a shared experience, we encourage you to bring family members to your appointments.

In our opinion, success with hearing aids will depend on a number of factors. The first, and foremost, is your own desire to improve your communication. This is a big one. No matter what the hearing tests tell us, no matter how many concerns your family and friends express, you have to be the one motivated to try hearing aids. As mentioned above, it will take some time to adjust to hearing new sounds and you have to be willing to put forth the effort to do so. Dont worry. Its not all work. In fact, the purpose of getting hearing aids is to improve the quality of your life and enjoy the time you spend with your family and friends. That should be worth the effort! In addition, the time that your audiologist takes to learn as much as he/she can about your listening needs will go a long way in choosing the most appropriate technology.

Finally, establishing realistic expectations are crucial to success. It is important to recognize that hearing aids are not going to solve all your hearing problems. They are called hearing aids because they do just that, aid an individuals hearing. No matter the style or technology, hearing aids amplify sound. One of the inherent limitations of hearing aids is that they must deliver this amplified sound to an unhealthy ear. This unhealthy ear can affect the way in which sounds are then processed. However, this should not dissuade you from trying a hearing aid. Fortunately, most individuals retain enough healthiness that providing clear amplified sound significantly improves their hearing abilities. During the evaluation process, your audiologist will be better able to address this issue, determine the appropriate amount of amplification and establish realistic expectations for your successes. Remember, if we do not think that a hearing aid is right for you, we will not recommend one.