FAQ about Hearing

Here are a few Frequently Asked Questions about hearing loss, Hearing Aids, implants and our services at Edgecliff Hearing. If you have another question you would like answered just click here to call or email us from our Contact page.

Do I have to purchase my hearing aid on line, or can I trial the aid first?

You can choose to purchase the aid online and then make an appointment for the fitting.  Or you can arrange an appointment at one of our clinics and trial the device before purchasing it.   If you decide to ‘test drive’ the device before purchasing it you will be required to pay a non-refundable deposit of $280. If you decide to keep the aid, then the $280 is taken off the total cost of the device.   Whether you purchase online or not, an Edgecliff Hearing audiologist will discuss your wants and needs to ensure the aids you choose suit you. Everyone’s hearing is unique and what’s appropriate for one person may not be appropriate for another.

How Do I Know if I Have Hearing Loss?

Click on this link and take the Hearing Test about half way down the page..

What are the Common Causes of Hearing Loss?

Hearing loss is most commonly caused by excessive noise exposure or through the natural aging process.  The hearing loss may be due to middle ear problems, such as glue ear, otosclerosis (excess bone growth behind the ear drum), chronic ear infections, or a cholesteatoma (cyst behind the eardrum).  Causes of inner ear hearing (damage to the sensory hair cells) include noise exposure and the aging process, medications toxic to the inner ear, Meniere’s disease (excess fluid production in the inner ear), virus infections and genetic causes. See: Common Causes of Hearing Loss

Do I need one Hearing Aid or two?

aids/”>hearing aids are better than one. Studies show that two hearing aids improve speech understanding in the majority of listening environments, particularly in the presence of background noise.  It will be easier to locate where a sound is coming from and easier to communicate in group situations.  Generally, the benefits of using two hearing aids outweigh the additional cost.

Can Hearing Aids correct my Hearing Loss?

Hearing aids can’t restore your hearing, but they can help you to hear better. A thorough audiological test is absolutely essential to ensure your aids are working optimally for you. An Edgecliff Hearing expert audiologist performs the most comprehensive tests to ensure that the correct hearing loss has been identified.

Do I need to wear my Hearing Aids all the time?

aids less often, successful hearing aids is highly dependent on you. When you have a hearing loss, your brain will need time to re-learn how to hear again. Wearing your hearing aid daily will help you achieve great results. Edgecliff Hearing personalised after care can assist you realise your goals.

Can wearing a Hearing Aid make my hearing worse?

No. A hearing aid prevents auditory deprivation and supports the entire auditory system.

Can I trial a hearing aid before deciding to purchase it?

An Edgecliff Hearing audiologist will discuss your wants and needs to select a device that best sits you. Everyone’s hearing is unique and what’s appropriate for one person may not be appropriate for another. We provide a trial period of 3 weeks (this may be extended if necessary).  You will be required to pay a deposit of $280. If you decide to keep the aid, then the $180 is taken off the total cost of the device..

What is an FM System?

When the problem of background noise or listening over distance remains a big problem even after hearing devices are fitted, then an FM system can help. The system consists of a remote microphone and transmitter placed near the sound source. The FM transmitter sends the sound by FM signal to an FM receiver worn by the listener.

Does my Health Insurance help pay for a hearing device?

Most health insurance companies provide hearing aid benefit options.  Check with your health insurer to see if you are eligible for a rebate.  Medicare does not cover hearing aids. The Baha and the cochlear implant devices are fully funded under basic hospital cover health insurance policies.

Will the Government help pay for a hearing device?

Edgecliff Hearing is an accredited audiology clinic with the Federal Government’s Office of Hearing Services Scheme.  Eligible pensioners and DVA card holders are able to obtain free hearing services and aids through our clinic.  Contact our clinic for an Application Form to see if your are eligible.

What is an audiologist?

An audiologist is a university degree-qualified Healthcare professional trained in the diagnosis and management of hearing disorders.  Edgecliff Hearing audiologists are full members of the Audiological Society of Australia (www.audiology.asn.au), and are therefore bound by a Professional Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice. In contrast, an audiometrist is a TAFE trained dispenser of hearing aids.  Here at Edgecliff Hearing we only employ audiologists.

Edgecliff Hearing Links and Resources


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