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How Hearing Aids Have Evolved Many people worry that a hearing aid will be bulky or noticeable, but the reality is that modern hearing aids are small, discreet, and designed for everyday comfort. The very first hearing devices, however, were impossible to miss. These earliest hearing aids were known as ear trumpets (often seen in older films) and were used from about the 1600s. They worked in much the same way as cupping your hand behind your ear, amplifying and focusing

Musicians rely on their hearing as much as athletes rely on physical strength. Whether performing live, rehearsing in enclosed spaces, or producing music in studio settings, exposure to high sound levels is part of the profession. Recent scientific research, including a systematic review and meta-analysis published in a peer-reviewed medical journal, confirms what many musicians in Alberta already suspect. Long-term exposure to music-related noise significantly increases the

Have you ever watched a movie where the dialogue feels slightly out of sync with the actors’ lips? That tiny mismatch can be surprisingly distracting. Yet in everyday life, our brains rarely make such mistakes, even though light and sound move at very different speeds. How does the brain pull off this incredible feat of synchronizing sights and sounds? Let’s explore the science behind this process and why it matters for your hearing health. The Importance of Aligning Sight an

Studies of hearing loss over the years have focused more on how it affects the perception of speech and less on the way it affects how patients perceive natural sounds. This lack of data means that very little is known about how hearing aids can restore the perception of natural sounds. A paper published in Ear and Hearing, the official journal for the American Auditory Society, called “Sounds of Nature and Hearing Loss: A Call to Action”, aims to dig deeper into this and out

As technology evolves, treatments and solutions for those suffering from hearing loss become increasingly advanced, and groundbreaking innovations emerge more frequently each year. Recently, a group of Australian researchers developed what could be one of the most revolutionary advancements for hearing impairments: a silkworm-based prosthetic eardrum. Named ClearDrum, this implantable solution has recently received new funding, bringing the innovative technology a step closer

Mobile phone accessibility for individuals with hearing loss has improved significantly over the past five decades. A recent regulatory change will ensure that 100% of mobile phones sold in the United States comply with Hearing Aid Compatibility (HAC) standards - the RSS-HAC standards that are Canadian-based and uses the FCC requirements in the US as a benchmark. This milestone will benefit individuals who use hearing aids in Alberta. The Evolution of Hearing Aid Compatibilit

When it comes to treating hearing loss, patients typically rely on a wide variety of hearing aids to amplify the sound captured from the external environment to make it distinguishable for them. However, there have been numerous improvements in technology in recent years that promise to revolutionize the way we treat those with hearing disabilities. The expectation is that people suffering from hearing loss will be able to rely on more efficient treatment in just a few years

In today’s world, auditory wellness is often neglected by many people as other health concerns are generally prioritized in health discussions. Recent studies, however, have increased our understanding of auditory wellness, helping us understand why it is so important for our overall well-being. In this blog, we are exploring the concept of hearing wellness, its importance, and how it can be managed to achieve optimal quality of life. What Is Auditory Wellness Auditory wellne

Hearing issues can affect anyone, and they often become more common with age. Fortunately, advancements in medical technology, such as internal cochlear implants, offer effective solutions. At Soundwave Hearing Care in Calgary, our experienced audiologists are committed to assisting Alberta residents with hearing loss. We provide comprehensive support and guidance on exploring all available options, including cochlear implants, to enhance your quality of life. What are Intern

Hearing loss is a natural part of aging for many, something present since birth, or caused by external factors such as noise or infection, but it doesn't have to control our lives. Today's hearing aids are small, sophisticated devices that can significantly improve your ability to connect with the world around you. Think of that tiny device as a technological marvel, a helping hand that allows you to participate fully in conversations, enjoy music and movies, and confidently

A recent study published by the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine has sparked excitement in the field. The research suggests a potential new zinc treatment that may help restore lost hearing – a breakthrough that could significantly impact the lives of millions. At Soundwave Hearing Care in Calgary, Grande Prairie, High River and Lethbridge, we're passionate about staying informed about the latest advancements in hearing loss research. Let's look into this revolutio

As experts learn more about the science of human hearing, hearing loss technology is expanding to exciting new possibilities. Artificial intelligence (AI) is enabling hearing aids to improve comfort and language comprehension. Here’s a brief overview of the potential of AI to improve assistive hearing technologies. How your brain sorts sounds Your brain’s ability to organize the sounds entering your ears is critical to your safety and ability to interact with the world around

RM (remote microphone) systems can be a game-changer for students with hearing loss. They can help post-secondary students hear better in noisy environments, participate more fully in class discussions and understand what their classmates are saying. If you’re a student with hearing loss, here’s how an RM system can help you in your academic career. How An RM System Works RM systems are advanced hearing technology that use digital transmission signals to enhance sound transmi

If you’ve ever been overwhelmed by a benign sound like a car engine, you may have a case of hyperacusis. This condition is characterized by a heightened sensitivity to everyday sounds. It has an auditory component, which causes the hearer physical discomfort in response to the sound. It often also has a psychological component, whereby the hearer experiences extreme irritation or fear in response to the sound. Here’s what you need to know. Can Hearing Loss Cause Noise Sensiti

Hearing is one of the most important senses for children. It allows them to learn language, socially interact and participate in activities. However, children's hearing is more vulnerable to damage than adults’ and requires special protection. Here’s why it’s essential to provide children with hearing protection. How To Provide Hearing Protection for Children at Different Stages Children of varying ages require different levels and types of hearing protection. Infants and tod

If you’re affected by hearing loss, you know the many challenges it can add to your life. If your hearing loss affects just one ear, you may have developed workarounds to manage your condition. For example, you may be selective about your seat at the dinner table or ask people to speak to you on your “good side.” However, hearing loss or deafness in one ear can also limit your awareness of your surroundings and put you at risk of missing the sound of an oncoming car or person

Did you know that four million Canadians live with hearing loss? The sad reality is that many of these individuals experience feelings of isolation and depression because of their impaired hearing. The biotechnology company Frequency Therapeutics wants to change that and help people live more fulfilling lives by reversing hearing loss. They have developed a process of regenerating the tiny hair cells in the inner ear that help people hear. Here’s everything you need to know a

People who wear hearing aids often feel intimidated about participating in individual or team sports. They often cite fear of losing or breaking their devices as reasons for sitting on the sidelines. The good news is today’s hearing aids are more durable and secure than ever before. Therefore, people with hearing loss shouldn’t let their concerns keep them from keeping fit and having fun. Using hearing aids can make exercising a safer, more enjoyable experience. Here are some

A squawking hearing aid is frequently caused by feedback. Feedback happens when the sound coming out of your hearing aid leaks back into the device’s microphone, creating a continuous loop of sound that can be quite loud and annoying to you and those around you. Fortunately, you can take steps to reduce or eliminate a squealing hearing aid. Hearing aid feedback causes and prevention If your hearing aid is making whistling or squeaking sounds, it could be due to one or more of

The United States recently introduced new hearing aid legislation that makes it easy to purchase over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids from local retailers or online. The Canadian Academy of Audiology (CAA) predicts that Canada will soon follow suit. While this may seem like an accessible way to get the hearing devices you need, it also poses several challenges. Here’s what you should know. Disadvantages of OTC hearing devices Although OTC hearing devices may be suitable for so