Technology has changed nearly everything in our lives, from how we gather information to how we get our entertainment, even how we sleep.

It's changed how we hear, too. Technology has transformed the power and effectiveness of hearing aids. Not so long ago hearing aids were large plastic pieces that people wore outside of the ear. They were so noticeable that people were reluctant to wear them in public. But with the great advancements that have taken place in miniaturization and digital technology, hearing aids today can fit inside the ear, sometimes deep inside. And digital hearing aids offer "flexible programming" similar to how computers or TVs can be customized to suit the user's preferences.

Hearing impairment can come in many forms, and the types and range of sounds that give people trouble vary from person to person. A digital hearing aid can be programmed and adjusted to precisely fit each individual's need.

Technology has greatly improved hearing aids, but you may never benefit from this technology if you aren't aware that you have a hearing problem in the first place. Hearing loss is gradual and sometimes subtle. You may think you are hearing as well as ever, not realizing that a part of your world is slowly slipping away, perhaps in the form of music, the voices of others, or the sounds of nature.

Knowing the most telling symptoms of hearing loss is important. They include:

• keeping the TV at a level that's too loud for others,
• asking people to repeat what they have said, or to speak louder
• having difficulty hearing conversation when there are other people around such as in a theater, restaurant, or social event,
• feeling stuffiness, pain, itching, or heat in or around you ear,
• feeling weary or tired early in the day
• mispronouncing simple words,
• or having a history of hearing loss in your family.

These are the most common symptoms of hearing loss, and they are an indication that you should visit an audiologist for a check-up. When patients come to Southwest Regional Rehabilitation Center, they get a complete ear examination performed by one of our certified staff audiologists. We use the latest equipment to determine exactly what type of hearing impairment may be involved. Because there are many causes of hearing loss, in some cases we may refer you to a physician for further treatment. Sometimes hearing loss is due to disease or infection, or the side effects of medication.

If the examination reveals that you need a hearing aid, Southwest offers a wide range of the latest models available on the market. We will work closely with you to make sure you get exactly the right hearing aid to meet your needs. Each hearing aid is offered on a 30-day trial, and during that time you will return to the audiologist to make sure it is properly fitted.

We can also help with financing. Through the Southwest Rehabilitation Foundation, financial aid is available to some patients. Also, patients who are employed can get state support from the Michigan Department of Career Development.

Regardless of the technology or the financial arrangement, the first step is to determine if you have a hearing problem in the first place. You can take that step by calling 269.965.3206.

Your friends at Southwest Regional Rehabilitation Center.