Peterborough Hearing Aid Clinic Tag

Buy Hearing Aids: Clinic or Online

Within the last five years (or last few months with Covid-19), like many other products, you can now buy hearing aids online. Sounds convenient right? It may seem convenient and like the easiest way to save money. However, that’s not necessarily the case. So, do you buy hearing aids in a clinic or online? Before you Decide It’s true, you can find hearing aids cheaper online than at a clinic. But here are a few things you should know before you jump in: Not all hearing aids are made equal, the technology inside makes all the difference. Hearing aids are complex pieces of medical equipment; they are like little computers! Your hearing aids need to be tailored to your unique hearing needs. Hearing aids are not like glasses. You can’t put them on and everything with sound ‘normal’ again. It can take time to get used to the feel and sound of the hearing aids. In most cases, several tweaks need to be made to get it just right. Depending on your hearing loss, you may need higher-end technology to give you the optimal volume and clarity you need. It really comes down to quality and service instead of price.    Buying Hearing Aids Online Online you may get a lower price, but there is no guarantee they will be the right hearing aids or the right fit for you. You also get no extended service after your purchase. You get the hearing aids from Amazon (maybe? They sell everything right?),...

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Hear CTA

What Do Hearing Aids Cost?

What Do Hearing Aids Cost? "So, what does it cost to get hearing aids?" We get asked this question all the time and it’s not the most straightforward one to answer. When it comes to hearing aids, it’s not like going to the mall, picking the style you like, and looking at the price tag. There are a few other considerations that ensure your hearing aids will work best for YOU. Here are a few things to consider:   Manufacturer and Style There are 6 global hearing aid manufacturers or the ‘big guys’ and their smaller companies they own. Each manufacturer puts out various styles and models of hearing aids; most of which get technology updates every few years. The technology with most of the manufacturers is similar, however, some do specialize in certain areas of hearing (i.e. Tinnitus, own voice sound, etc.). Manufacturers Signia* Starkey* Phonak Resound Oticon Widex Others include Beltone, Bernafon, Unitron, etc. * We typically use these two for their great technology and excellent customer service for you as a client and us as a clinic. Styles Behind the Ear (BTE) Receiver in the Canal (RIC) *most common hearing aid style In the Ear/Canal (ITE or ITC) Completely or Invisible in the Canal (CIC or IIC) The style of hearing aid you choose can depend on your degree of hearing loss, dexterity, if you want something more discreet, or simply your preference. Degree of Hearing Loss The main consideration is the degree of your hearing loss. The...

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Q&A

Questions to Ask Before Buying a Hearing Aid

Purchasing hearing aids is an exciting experience, but one that can come with a lot of questions. Your practitioner will do their best to make sure you're at ease with the process as they guide you through the hearing test, hearing aid selection, and finances. During your initial consultation, consider asking these questions before buying your hearing aids: What expectations should I have about the hearing aids to improve my ability to hear? Having realistic expectations can prepare you for how best to use your hearing aids and change your conversation style so you don't miss out. The practitioner will discuss those benefits and changes so you are informed about expectations. Can I try out a device before buying it? Here at The Ear Depot, we do offer hearing aid trials to ensure you are confident about your decision. Ask us for more details and how to set it up. What features and services are included in the cost? Included in the cost of your hearing aids: the hearing aids themselves, access to an experienced practitioner whenever needed ('Dispensing Fee'), and a Lifetime Service Plan (includes all cleanings, annual testing, and adjustments for the life of your hearing aids). Is the cost covered by my insurance? Each insurance company and policy differs. If you have extended health benefits let us know at your consultation, our team can enquire for you regarding your coverage, all we need is your policy card. Must they be purchased outright or is financing available? If needed,...

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You May Wear Hearing Aids If…

Ever heard Jeff Foxworthy's "You might be a redneck" jokes? Here is our version for those that wear hearing aids or work in hearing... "You might wear hearing aids if." Enjoy the hilarious, but true tidbits!   You may wear or work with hearing aids if... You find battery stickers EVERYWHERE and on everything (no joke, found one on the butt of my pants last week!) You bust out your sound level app….. in church. You find batteries in random places for easy access: your car, purse, kitchen, etc. You’re not grossed out by wax or other things you find on the hearing aids anymore You really want to use Q-tips to scratch your ear, but you hear your practitioner's voice in your head saying ‘don’t do it!’ You’re suddenly very aware of the sound paper makes or the fridge when it comes on You're more cautious about rain than before You have asked (or had someone ask you) when looking in the ear if you can see right through to the other side. People’s ears are the first thing you look at on a person. You have the urge to push a person’s earmolds in properly when you’re standing behind them at the grocery store checkout. Any other ones you can come up with? Leave them in the comments below!   For more information about the hearing aids we offer and other services check out your services tab. 

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do's and don'ts

Tinnitus Support Group – Covid 19 Tinnitus Recap

Tinnitus Recap: Do's and Don'ts During this time with Covid-19, we haven't been able to meet for our regular Tinnitus Support Group (we miss you guys!). So, while we are social distancing, I thought we could look back at the last 7 months and what we've learned in that time. Here are some Tinnitus recap do's and don't we've learned in regards to reducing and maintaining your Tinnitus.    Tinnitus Recap DO'S Use sound therapy for general flare-ups or when you can't wear your hearing aids (i.e. going to bed) Pet your fluffy family member! The act of stroking a dog, cat, etc. has a number of health benefits. For Tinnitus it can help by reducing your blood pressure or providing a distraction. Know that it's a disconnect between your brain and ears; it's not all in your head! Take breaks if you need it; that's okay! Watch out for your peak hours; you may be better say in the morning to be in groups or around noise. Try ear massage (using in acupuncture)! Watch the foods you eat; they might have more of an impact than you think. For triggers: Be prepared with strategies or avoid those situations. Tinnitus Recap DON'TS Avoid or reduce sugar. Not only will it be better for your waistline but your brain as well. For more foods that could influence your Tinnitus check out our session with a registered nutritionist. Think you're in this alone. You are not the only one experiencing and you have...

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mask

Wearing Hearing Aids and a Mask: 5 Tips

Wearing Hearing Aids... Plus a Mask We are currently living in some strange times. In healthcare, wearing masks has been common practice for a long time. Now, with the Covid-19 outbreak more and more people are wearing masks to help protect themselves and others. But what if you wear behind the ear hearing aids? How do you safely wearing hearing aids and a mask? Here are a few tips to help keep you safe during Covid-19 and keep your hearing aids safely behind your ears. Wearing hearing aids and a mask Take extra precautions when removing the mask. Hearing aids can easily get caught on the elastic when removing them. Try taking your mask off only in one or two places (in the car or at home). This will help eliminate places to look if they do come loose and provide some extra security and awareness.  Attach the mask to a headband with buttons. This not only protects the backs of your ears from the elastic but keeps your hearing aids in place too. You can find a pattern for one here. If you have long hair you can also loop the elastic around a ponytail. Get a mask extender. These can be purchased, made, or makeshift (I've seen people use paperclips). These allow the mask to be secured around the back of your head vs. your ears. Use the masks with 4 strings vs elastic. These tie around the back of your head and nape of your neck with no...

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Myths about Hearing Aids

6 Myths about Hearing Aids When it comes to hearing aids, there is a lot of misinformation or outdated information. Hearing aids have come a long way and are more science-based then you might think. Check out our myths about hearing aids… maybe you’ve been misinformed.     Myth 1: Hearing aids will make my hearing ‘normal’ again or ‘cure’ my hearing loss Fact: Unlike glasses that can correct vision to 20/20 instantly, hearing aids can’t restore hearing to 100%. Today’s hearing technology is amazing at what it can do: it can pick up speech while turning down background noise; they can also be programmed with your smartphone and other devices for enhanced clarity. The one thing they CAN’T do is correct your hearing to ‘absolute normal’ again. The technology can’t completely replicate all the complexities of the human ear and brain. However, the good news is that hearing aids CAN significantly improve your hearing ability, allowing you to engage with those around you once again, and notably improve your quality of life. It may not be perfect, but it is a phenomenal change.    Myth 2: There is no need to buy two hearing aids. One will work just as good. Fact: Our ears and brains are wondrous and mysterious things, and they like symmetry or pairs. Like other things in our bodies, our ears work best when they work together allowing our brains to interpret sound quicker and with more accuracy. Wearing two hearing aids helps your ears better...

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Traveling with Hearing Aids

Traveling with Hearing Aids: Tips to keep your hearing aids safe and working great Whether you’re heading out on a road trip over the holidays, to the cottage, or jet setting to the other side of the world (away from this cold Canadian weather), traveling can be fun, adventurous, and enriching. When you have hearing aids, they can add a few more things to your travel checklist. Here is a handy guide for all your needs when traveling with hearing aids.  Packing List Extra batteries Charger  Charger cable [If traveling internationally, make sure you have a converter!] Cleaning tools - brush, cloth, and wax filters Dehumidifier kit Accessories - like your remote or mic Traveling By Plane Wear your hearing aids through security and on the plane. According to travel legislation in Canada and the USA, hearing aids and cochlear implants are a branch of medical devices that do not need to be removed. *Note, that x-rays and scanners could affect the hearing aids. If you're concerned, you can ask for a full-body scan or a physical search.  Put your hearing aids in 'airplane mode.' If your hearing aids have Bluetooth, you may have to put them in airplane mode (turns off the service, data, and wifi). You can ask your hearing aid professional the best way to do this or the flight attendants in a pinch. Reduce distractions. If you need to, turn down your hearing aids while going through security or on the plane to help with distracting background...

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Opening Hours

  • Monday - Friday
    8:30 - 16.30
  • Saturday - Sunday
    Closed