It is impossible to answer this question without an objective assessment, which BHC can provide you with. However, here are some signs that you might benefit from a hearing aid:

• Family and friends have commented you are not hearing them.
• You are experience difficulty hearing in background noise.
• You feel people are mumbling; you can hear them but cannot understand what they are saying.
• Socialising is becoming more hard work than fun.

If you have a hearing loss in both ears it is generally recommended that you are fitted with two hearing aids. This has the following benefits:

• Improves sound localization.
• Improves hearing in background noise.
• Allows you to hear in stereo and provides you with a better overall "sound picture".
• Reduces the risk of auditory deprivation.

A majority of hearing aids fitted today are digital. This refers to how the sound is processed through the hearing aid. Digital processing allows changes to the sound to be more precise thereby giving a much clearer signal to the user. It also allows for much more flexibility and accuracy in the programming of the instrument.

The cost of hearing aids varies significantly with the performance and flexibility of the aid. At BHC we endeavour to find a solution that best meet our clients' communication and financial needs.

If you are a pensioner or war veteran you may be eligible for free hearing aids through the Office of Hearing Services - BHC is accredited to provide these services to you. If you are not eligible for these services you may receive some coverage through your private health insurance.

Hearing aids are big clunky devices.

• Not so - hearing aids have reduced dramatically in size. Some of the newer models fit completely in the ear canal and are barely visible.

Hearing aids just sit in the bedside drawer.

• Not so - modern digital aids are fully programmable and can be customised to the person. Thousands of Australians can no longer imagine life without their aid.

Hearing aids are no good in noisy situations.

• Not so - innovations such as digital filters and directional microphones can enable hearing in even the noisiest crowds.