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Open House for Better Hearing A uburn & Mountain Hearing Centres are offering Open Houses at their three Tri-city locations to demonstrate new hearing aid technology. The Open House is a wonderful way to meet the expert staff and be educated about the benefits of improved hearing and quality of life. Guest representatives of Oticon Hearing Aids will be on hand to provide informative demonstrations and, only during the week-long Open Houses, pass on their manufacturer's discounts for those requiring a hearing device. The Open Houses are from Thursday, May 11, to Wednesday, May 17. "It's necessary to book an appointment," says Hish Husein, Doctor of Audiology at Auburn & Mountain Hearing Centres. "Patients will receive a free hearing screening, and if hearing aids are required, they will be legally prescribed and available with a manufacturer's rebate." Hearing loss adversely affects effective communication, relationships and social participation in everyday activities. Recent research shows that, compared to those without hearing deficits, other health-related consequences can may be linked to increased risks of falls; dementia, depression, anxiety and paranoia; as well as a shorter lifespan. Cardio vascular events have also been correlated in those with untreated low-frequency hearing. "Hearing loss that affects one out of four people, is second only to arthritis, and is the third most chronic condition in Canada," Hish reports. Why Visit an Audiologist? An audiologist has a minimum of a university master's degree, and often has an Au.D. (Doctoral degree). They are trained in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of hearing disorders, and conduct balance assessments and tinnitus evaluations. These services include hearing evaluations, specialized diagnostic testing and hearing screenings. They offer a wide variety of advanced digital products and assistive listening devices to fit their clients' individual needs. Only physicians or audiologists can legally prescribe hearing aids. "We see patients with hearing loss, who have no other medical intervention at their disposal, such as surgery, to help improve their condition," Hish notes. "About 90 per cent of hearing loss patients cannot be helped by an ear-nose-and-throat specialist, so, they are often seen by us for hearing aids. All degrees of hearing loss mean hearing aids are required." Auburn Hearing has been independently owned and operated since 2000. As independent audiologists, they have greater flexibility to prescribe hearing aids from a variety of manufacturers, as opposed to chains that are owned by specific hearing aidmanufacturers. The pricing for hearing devices are regulated by the Ontario government. Auburn Hearing provides counselling on how to use hearing aids with solid fitting protocols. "What many people don't realize is that hearing loss will lead to a deterioration of speech comprehension if left untreated, and it requires work from the patient to ensure an optimal outlook. It's important to remember that the hearing aid is a medical device, requiring continual follow-up. New patients sometimes think the hearing aid is defective, but actually it's the ear's end organ that is damaged, and why several adjustments are necessary. Award-winning Clinic Extensively involved in bettering their local community, the Auburn centres have consistently won the top Readers' Choice awards, including their consecutive, peer-reviewed Consumers' Choice award for Business Excellence - Hearing Services. People wait on average seven years before taking steps to see about their hearing, but for optimal health, it's crucial to seek answers as soon as hearing loss is suspected. After the Open Houses, free screening is provided for those over 45. Appointments are advised. Most third-party insurance companies are welcomed. Ask if you qualify for the Assistive Devices Program. Auburn & Mountain Hearing Centres are located at •WATERLOO: 570 University Ave. East, Suite 905. Phone: 519-886-2416 • CAMBRIDGE: 350 Conestoga Blvd, Unit B3. Phone: 519-620-4327 • KITCHENER: 520 University Ave. West, Unit 104. Phone: 519-744-3277 Visit their comprehensive website at www.auburnmountainhearing.com today. Business Spotlight Auburn & Mountain Hearing Centres Learn About the Latest Technology in Hearing Aids! FREE Hearing Aid Demos Hearing Aids Starting at .00 60-Day Risk Free Trial Interest Free Plans OPEN HOUSE SPECIAL Book a FREE Hearing Screening Today & Receive a FREE Gift! Space is Limited Kitchener 9am - 5pm 520 University Ave.W 1-888-491-71262017 May 12 MMMMMMMMaaaaayyyyyyyMMMMMaaayyyy Waterloo 9am - 5pm 570 University Ave. E 1-888-907-14362017 May 16 MMMMMMMaaaayyyyyyMMMMMaaayyyy Thursday, april 20, 2017 • WATERLOO CHRONICLE • 35