November 2023

Donate hearing aids

What to do with Older Hearing Aids?

Whether you're considering an upgrade to the latest technology, stumbled upon a forgotten pair tucked away in a drawer, or recently lost a loved one who used hearing aids, you might be wondering what to do with those older hearing aids. In this blog, we'll explore several meaningful ways to repurpose these devices, both locally and globally. Donate to an Individual Consider helping a family member or friend who may benefit from your older hearing aids. All they need is an audiogram and a practitioner willing to adjust the aids to their needs. This presents a heartwarming opportunity to make a meaningful difference in someone you know's life, rather than having the hearing aids collect dust in a drawer. Donate to a Charity Several charities specialize in collecting donated hearing aids for use both locally and abroad in areas with limited access to medical equipment. Here are a few organizations that accept hearing aid donations: The Lions Club: They operate through a specific program called The Hearing Aid Project. The Starkey Hearing Foundation This manufacturer takes donated devices and fits them to individuals in over 100 countries in need. The Gift of Hearing Foundation. Based in Alberta, this organization fits donated aids within Canada and around the world. Purinapaq: Mobility Without Borders. This Ontario-based charity refurbishes and distributes medical equipment, including hearing aids, to people with disabilities in economically distressed regions globally. They accept donations of various medical equipment. Donate to a Local Clinic At The Ear Depot, we gladly accept...

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hearing loss, can't hear

What You Should Know About Sudden Hearing Loss

Hearing loss can happen to anyone, but typically, it happens gradually. Sudden loss, also known as sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSHL), is a frightening and potentially life-altering condition that can occur suddenly and without warning. In this blog, we will delve into what it is, its symptoms, and what to do if sudden hearing loss happens to you or someone you know. Understanding Sudden Hearing Loss Sudden hearing loss is a rapid-onset hearing impairment typically affecting one ear but can sometimes be both. It often occurs overnight or in less than 72 hours, significantly impacting your inner ear function. This sudden change to your hearing can be caused by various factors such as viral infections, inner ear disorders, head trauma, or issues with blood circulation to the ears. Symptoms of Sudden Hearing Loss Symptoms include the following, with onset either overnight or within 24 hours: Feelings of fullness or pressure in the ear Significantly reduced hearing, usually in one ear Difficulty localizing sound Possible tinnitus (ringing in the ears) and/or vertigo (dizziness or imbalance) What To Do If It Happens to You Stay Calm: We know this is scary, but there is hope. Seek medical attention: Call us or another hearing clinic for an emergency hearing test. After we have confirmation of hearing loss, you need to see a family doctor or go to the ER within 24-48 hours. This condition typically needs to be treated with *corticosteroids or antivirals. Don't wait: The first 72 hours are CRITICAL. Prognosis and recovery...

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