What does it sound like to have a hearing loss?

Do you have normal hearing, but wonder what it might sound like to have a hearing loss? Maybe you know a relative or friend who has hearing loss and wonder how they hear. Hearing loss doesn't just make sound quieter. It often distorts sound, making speech sound garbled. This is because frequencies aren't affected equally. Typically, people with hearing loss have more trouble hearing high frequency sounds. This means they often miss consonants, which causes speech to sound mumbled. To get and idea of what this sounds like follow the link below. The audio recordings simulate what speech can sound like to someone with hearing loss.

http://www.npr.org/blogs/health/2013/04/06/175945670/the-real-sounds-of-hearing-loss

You probably noticed that turning up the volume didn't really help you understand the recordings any better. This is why it can be so difficult for individuals with hearing loss to follow a conversation, even when they have hearing aids. The good news is that hearing aids are continually improving. Modern hearing aids can selectively amplify the frequencies that people need help hearing, such as high frequencies, while leaving frequencies they can already hear alone. This helps improve speech clarity.

For more information about hearing loss and hearing aids please contact Accurate Hearing at 902-252-3004 in Lower Sackville, or 902-423-7734 in Halifax.