Hearing Aids in Livingston NJ
Hearing loss is a common part of the aging process, but many patients may also experience this issue due to injury after exposure to loud noise or as a result of illness. Thankfully, hearing aids are often an effective and simple solution for these patients. At Hearing Doctors of New Jersey, our hearing care professionals match patients to the best hearing solution for them using our proprietary H.E.A.R. Method™ Treatment Program, and each of our patients can expect the highest quality of care from audiology experts.
What are Hearing Aids?
Hearing aids are small electronic devices that can be worn to amplify sounds, allowing those with hearing loss to hear more clearly. Hearing aids benefit those who have mild to profound hearing loss in both quiet or noisy situations and can be beneficial for patients with varying hearing levels or degrees of hearing loss.
Hearing aid technology consists of a microphone, amplifier, and speaker. They are worn either in or behind the ear and direct amplified sounds to the ears. Mulitple hearing aid styles and types are available, and our audiologists can help match you with the specific style that suits your needs and preferences.
How Can Hearing Aids Help Me Hear?
The primary function of hearing aids is to improve your ability to comprehend speech and other sounds so you can effectively communicate with those around you. A hearing aid is useful for those who have damage to the sensory cells of the inner ear. This type of hearing impairment is called sensorineural hearing loss, and it is commonly a result of aging, disease, or an injury after exposure to excessive noise. When the sensory cells within the inner ear are damaged, the ear has a decreased ability to detect smaller sound vibrations and, subsequently, convert these vibrations to neural signals to be interpreted by the brain. Amplifying sound using a hearing aid allows these cells to convert now larger vibrations to neural signals, meaning better hearing for the patient.
What Hearing Aid Styles Are Available?
There are two basic types of hearing aids with several different styles of each type available from numerous hearing aid manufacturers. A hearing aid may be completely contained within an earpiece that sits in the ear canal or composed of a housing unit that sits behind the ear connected by a wire to an earpiece. During your appointment, a hearing care provider will thoroughly explain the different options to you and help you select the best option for your hearing health needs and lifestyle. At Hearing Doctors of New Jersey, we offer the following types of prescription hearing aids.
- Invisible-in-Canal (IIC)
- Completely-in-Canal (CIC)
- In-the-Canal (ITC)
- In-the-Ear (ITE)
- Receiver-in-Canal (RIC)
- Behind-the-Ear (BTE)
Which Hearing Aid Manufacturer is Best for Me?
In our Livingston, NJ office, we offer a selection of the leading hearing aid brands which our hearing doctors carefully match to each patient’s hearing care needs. Some of the brands we offer include:
- Starkey
- Oticon
- Widex
- ReSound
In addition, we provide hearing aid batteries, repairs, and accessories in our Livingston, New Jersey office for your convenience. If you prefer, you can also visit our online store, All Ears Hearing Shop, for hearing supplies that can be delivered directly to you.
How Much Do Hearing Aids Cost?
Hearing aids are often more affordable than they may seem, and we believe that they also represent one of the best investments that our patients can make in their health and quality of life. Patients are often shocked at the high cost of hearing aids because most hearing health providers “bundle” prices. At Hearing Doctors of New Jersey, our “unbundled model” breaks down your costs, separating the cost of your hearing screenings, hearing care services, and hearing aids so the cost is more transparent. This also helps to reduce your out-of-pocket expenses and allows us to help you submit your bill to insurance for separate services whenever possible.
Hearing tests are generally covered by health insurance, but some policies require you to have a referral from your primary care doctor before you are covered for hearing health care.
Hearing Doctors of New Jersey also offers financing options so that our patients can receive the audiology services they need and enjoy better hearing regardless of their budget. CareCredit is a payment option that breaks your expenses into monthly, zero-interest payments.
Hearing Aids and Our H.E.A.R. Method™ Treatment Program
In order to restore your hearing health, our Doctors of Audiology utilize Hearing Doctors of New Jersey’s proprietary H.E.A.R. Method™ Treatment Program. This helps to ensure that our patients are matched with the specific audiology services that they need, including the correct hearing aid option for them.
The H.E.A.R. Method™ Treatment Program begins with a personalized hearing assessment, during with your audiologist will review your health history and lifestyle to develop a customized treatment plan. Next, you will undergo a comprehensive hearing evaluation and hearing test. This may include the QuickSIN test, which measures your ability to hear with background noise. This test would determine, for example, if you would be able to understand speech in a crowded restaurant.
Following a hearing evaluation and QuickSIN test, we will perform a real ear test to ensure that your hearing aids fit correctly and that we have matched you with the correct hearing aid settings. This involves making small adjustments while you are wearing the hearing aids in our hearing center.
If you are ready to take the next step towards better hearing, download our Free Guide on “The 7 Insider Secrets and Lies on Buying the Right Hearing Aid” immediately.
Schedule a Consultation
If you are having trouble hearing and require audiology services, schedule an appointment at Hearing Doctors of New Jersey. Call our Livingston NJ office at (973) 874-2790 or contact us online to set up your first appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are expensive hearing aids better?
In the hearing aid industry, spending more money doesnt always bring better quality. A well-fit hearing aid by an audiologist utilizing Real Ear Verification protocols will ensure that your hearing aid is programmed exactly for your hearing.
Can I buy hearing aids over the counter?
Over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids are a new category of hearing aids that consumers can buy directly, without visiting a hearing health professional. These devices are intended to help adults who believe they have mild-to-moderate hearing loss.
Can you sleep with a hearing aid in?
While you can sleep with a hearing aid in, however it is recommended that you remove your hearing aid for at least several hours during the day.
Do cheap hearing aids work?
The price of the hearing aid does not dictate if it will work or not. Its important to take into consideration the following when purchasing hearing aids:n1) Where do you need help hearing?n2) What is your hearing like?n3) Have you had a comprehensive hearing evaluation by an audiologist to rule out any other medical reasons that may be contributing to your hearing loss?n4) How are the hearing aids programmed and who is programming them?n5) Are they using Real Ear Verification to ensure a proper fit?
Does wearing hearing aids help with tinnitus?
According to the American Tinnitus Association (ATA) tinnitus is overwhelmingly connected to some level of hearing loss. By augmenting the reception and perception of external noise, through hearing aids, it can often provide relief from the internal sound of tinnitus.
How can I improve my hearing without a hearing aid?
While there is no way to change your hearing, there are a couple of things to help protect your hearing:n1) Use hearing protection when in situations where the sound is above 85 dBn2) Take vitamins that promote healthy ear functionn3) Avoid tobacco smoke
How do you hold your phone with a hearing aid?
When using a standard phone, hold the phone earpiece to the top of your ear. You may need to angle the phone backwards slightly to improve the sound passing into the hearing aid.
How do you reduce background noise in a hearing aid?
Directional microphones significantly reduce the effect of background noise by focusing the amplification only in a certain area—usually within your visual range.
Is wearing a hearing aid a disability?
A hearing impairment or hearing loss is a full or partial decrease in the ability to detect or understand sounds. It can be diagnosed as mild, moderate, severe, or profound, to the point of total deafness. Any level of hearing loss is classified as a disability under the ADA and if unable to work is eligible for disability payments.
Should you wear hearing aids all the time?
Yes. It is recommended that you should wear hearing aids on a full-time basis in order to give your brain a chance to adapt to all of the new sounds you will again be hearing. The only time you should not wear your hearing aids is when you are:n1) Sleepingn2) Showeringn3) Having your hair donen4) Swimmingn5) In a dangerously loud environment
What are the side effects of a hearing aid?
There are a few common side effects of hearing aids:n- Itchiness of the ear canal n- Wax buildup
What happens if you dont wear your hearing aid?
If you have hearing loss and dont wear your hearing aid, it wont help you. In order to hear well, it is recommended that you should wear your hearing aids on a full-time basis in order to give your brain a chance to adapt to all of the new sounds you will again be hearing.
What is the life expectancy of a hearing aid?
The typical life expectancy of a hearing aid is between 3-5 years.
What is the most comfortable hearing aid?
Comfort is an individual preference. That said, many people prefer the Receiver-in-the-Canal style hearing aid as it provides a lot of comfort while being able to fit a wide range of hearing losses.
What is the number one hearing aid?
There is no number one hearing aid. Despite what is published online, it important to realize that hearing aids are not a one size fits all solution. When researching hearing aids, you should also take into consideration the following:n1) Does your audiologist work with only one manufacturer or offer multiple hearing aid manufacturers?n2) Do they offer objective testing, like a QUICKSIN test, to verify what hearing aid manufacturer works best for you in background noise? n3) When fitting a hearing aid, does your audiologist perform Real Ear Verification in order to ensure a proper fit.
What level of hearing loss requires a hearing aid?
If you are having difficulty hearing then you should consider getting the help that you need. There is no pre-determined degree of hearing loss that requires a hearing aid.
Can you buy hearing aids over the counter?
Over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids are a new category of hearing aids that consumers can buy directly, without visiting a hearing health professional. These devices are intended to help adults who believe they have mild-to-moderate hearing loss.
Can you pay monthly for hearing aids?
Yes. At Hearing Doctors of New Jersey, we have treatment programs beginning at as low as $189 a month.
Do any Medicare plans cover hearing aids?
According to medicare.gov, Medicare does not cover hearing aids. You pay 100% for hearing aids and exams. Some Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C) offer extra benefits that Original Medicare doesnt cover – like vision, hearing, or dental. You should contact your Medicare Part C plan directly for more information.
Do hearing aids help tinnitus?
According to the American Tinnitus Association (ATA) ntinnitus is overwhelmingly connected to some level of hearing loss. By augmenting the reception and perception of external noise, through hearing aids, it can often provide relief from the internal sound of tinnitus.
How long does it take for your brain to adjust to a hearing aid?
When you first begin to use hearing aids, your brain will be startled to receive the signals it has been missing. Because you havent heard sounds, often in years, it can take anywhere from six weeks to six months to become fully acclimated to your new hearing aids. Remember, success comes from practice and commitment to wearing your new hearing aids.
How many years should hearing aids last?
The typical life expectancy of a hearing aid is between 3-5 years.
How much does a hearing aid for tinnitus cost?
Hearing aids for tinnitus can cost between $500 to $4000 .
Is it OK to sleep with hearing aids?
While you can sleep with a hearing aid in, however it is recommended that you remove your hearing aid for at least several hours during the day.
What insurance covers hearing aids for seniors?
According to medicare.gov, Medicare does not cover hearing aids. You pay 100% for hearing aids and exams. Some Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C) offer extra benefits that Original Medicare doesnt cover – like vision, hearing, or dental. You should contact your Medicare Part C plan directly for more information.
What is the best inexpensive hearing aid?
There is no best inexpensive hearing aid. Despite what is published online, it important to realize that hearing aids are not a one size fits all solution. When researching hearing aids, you should also take into consideration the following:n1) Does your audiologist work with only one manufacturer or offer multiple hearing aid manufacturers?n2) Do they offer objective testing, like a QUICKSIN test, to verify what hearing aid manufacturer works best for you in background noise? n3) When fitting a hearing aid, does your audiologist perform Real Ear Verification in order to ensure a proper fit?
Do you need a prescription to get hearing aids?
Hearing aids are considered prescription products. Usually dispensed by an audiologist, a physician, or a hearing instrument specialist, depending on state law.
Does AARP help with hearing aids?
According to medicare.gov, Medicare does not cover hearing aids. You pay 100% for hearing aids and exams. Some Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C) offer extra benefits that Original Medicare doesnt cover – like vision, hearing, or dental. You should contact your Medicare Part C AARP plan directly for more information.
Does Medicare pay for a hearing aid?
According to medicare.gov, Medicare does not cover hearing aids. You pay 100% for hearing aids and exams. Some Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C) offer extra benefits that Original Medicare doesnt cover – like vision, hearing, or dental. You should contact your Medicare Part C plan directly for more information.
Is it OK to use only one hearing aid?
If you have hearing loss in only one ear, it is OK to use only one hearing aid. If you have hearing loss in both ears, it is recommended to wear two hearing aids.
Is it OK to wear just one hearing aid?
If you have hearing loss in only one ear, it is OK to use only one hearing aid. If you have hearing loss in both ears, it is recommended to wear two hearing aids.
How long do hearing aids last?
Hearing aids typically last 3 to 5 years.
Does wearing a hearing aid make your hearing worse?
Properly fit hearing aids will not make your hearing worse.
What is a basic hearing aid?
Basic hearing aids offer limited controls and noise reduction capabilities. A basic hearing aid is often best for someone who lives a very quiet lifestyle and has limited interactions with other people where noise is present.
What is the average cost of hearing aids?
Most hearing aid practices in the United States offer hearing aids in a bundled model. This means all the services are included in the price where the price can range from $1,500 to $3,500 per ear. At Hearing Doctors of New Jersey, we strive to ensure that a treatment decision does not become a financial decision. That is why we developed the Hear Method Treatment Program, with a low, fixed monthly cost of $189 a month.
What is the best affordable hearing aid?
Despite what you read online, there is no best affordable hearing aid for any one person as no two people are alike. Its not the price of the hearing aid that dictates if it will work or not. Instead, when purchasing a hearing aid, it is important to take into consideration the following:n1) Where do you need help hearing?n2) What is your hearing like?n3) Have you had a comprehensive hearing evaluation by an audiologist to rule out any other medical reasons that may be contributing to your hearing loss?n4) How are the hearing aids programmed and who is programming them?n5) Are they using Real Ear Verification to ensure a proper fit?
How many channels do I need in my hearing aid?
The difference between a hearing aid with more channels and a hearing aid with less channels is that more channels allow the audiologist to adjust the volume of a greater number of frequencies across the speech spectrum.
What is the best hearing aid on the market today?
Despite what you read online, there is no best hearing aid for any one person as no two people are alike. Its not the highest rated hearing aid that dictates if it will work or not. Instead, when purchasing a hearing aid, it is important to take into consideration the following:n1) Where do you need help hearing?n2) What is your hearing like?n3) Have you had a comprehensive hearing evaluation by an audiologist to rule out any other medical reasons that may be contributing to your hearing loss?n4) How are the hearing aids programmed and who is programming them?n5) Are they using Real Ear Verification to ensure a proper fit?
Does Social Security pay for hearing aids?
No. Social Security does not pay for hearing aids.
When should you get a hearing aid?
If you are struggling to hear clearly or you are frustrated of saying “what” all the time, you should schedule an appointment with an audiologist for a comprehensive hearing evaluation to determine if a hearing aid will help you.
Are hearing aid prices negotiable?
It never hurts to ask if the hearing aid price listed is negotiable.
Are hearing aids worth it?
Yes. A properly fit hearing aid by an audiologist or licensed hearing aid dispenser can be a significant improvement in ones quality of life. nThere are many places you can purchase a hearing aid. If you want to ensure that your investment is worth it, you should take into consideration the following:n1) Where do you need help hearing?n2) What is your hearing like?n3) Have you had a comprehensive hearing evaluation by an audiologist to rule out any other medical reasons that may be contributing to your hearing loss?n4) How are the hearing aids programmed and who is programming them?n5) Are they using Real Ear Verification to ensure a proper fit?
Can I get free hearing aids?
According to Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA), children with hearing loss might be able to receive hearing assistive technology at no cost if their Individualized Education Program (IEP) specifies they need the assistive technology (such as hearing aids or FM systems) in order to receive a Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE).
Does AARP help pay for hearing aids?
AARP offers a 20% discount program on hearing aids through their retail partner, HearUSA.
How do I choose a hearing aid?
When choosing a hearing aid, it is most important to consider who is fitting the device. You should also take into consideration the following:n1) Does your audiologist work with only one manufacturer or offer multiple hearing aid manufacturers?n2) Do they offer objective testing, like a QUICKSIN test, to verify what hearing aid manufacturer works best for you in background noise? n3) When fitting a hearing aid, does your audiologist perform Real Ear Verification in order to ensure a proper fit?
How far should a hearing aid go in?
A hearing aid should not go past the second bend of the ear canal.
Is it OK to wear one hearing aid?
If you only have hearing loss in one ear, you should wear one hearing aid. If you have hearing loss in both ears, you should wear two hearing aids. When you hear, our ears send the information to our brain where sound is processed. If you only wear one hearing aid and have hearing loss in both ears, your brain wont get a complete picture of the sound and therefore you will not hear as well.
Is there an alternative to hearing aids?
There are alternatives to hearing aids. However, if you have hearing loss, a hearing aid fit by an audiologist is often the best solution. Other alternatives to hearing aids include:n1) Personal Sound Amplifiers, PSAPs n2) FM systems
Is wearing a hearing aid classed as a disability?
Wearing a hearing aid is not a disability. It is an accommodation to a hearing limitation.
What are the side effects of wearing hearing aids?
Hearing aid wearers may experience some side effects as you get used to wearing your devices daily. Some of these side effects include:n1) Difficulty adjusting to the environment around you.n2) Initial ear discomfort.
Are hearing aids going to help me?
If you feel like you are having difficulty hearing and you have hearing loss, then hearing aids are going to help you.
Do hearing aids make you feel old?
No. Having hearing aids keeps you younger and more connected to others. People notice when someone has hearing loss because they say “what” or “excuse me” often. If you cannot hear, people treat you differently because they constantly have to repeat what they are saying in order for you to hear them. They treat you like you are old. If you can hear the conversation clearly, people will not treat you differently, like you are “old”.
Do I really need a hearing aid?
Are you struggling, frustrated, and tired of saying “what” all the time? Do you feel like your grandchildren are mumbling or not speaking clearly? Is your spouse constantly nagging you because you’re not “listening” to them? Is this you? If so, then yes, you really need a hearing aid.
How do I maintain hearing aids?
Hearing aids and the maintenance associated with something new can seem overwhelming at first. Thankfully, advances in technology have made maintenance a lot easier. For example, rechargeable hearing aids require nothing more than a nightly re-charge and an occasional cleaning with a wipe of a dry cloth. Maintenance on hearing aids is quite minimal, so this should not be a reason to delay addressing your hearing.
What is the right hearing aid for me?
No matter what online research you do, the only way to truly determine the right hearing aid for you is to perform objective testing. At Hearing Doctors of New Jersey, our proprietary H.E.A.R. Method [trademark] includes testing you in background noise with different manufacturers hearing aids to determine which device helps you hear the most clearly. nIf you visit a practice that does not perform verification testing in noise, you should question why they are recommending that specific hearing aid for you. Without testing, they are guessing. Hearing aids can be a costly investment. Wouldn’t you want to be certain you are getting the right hearing aid for you?
Is now a good time to get hearing aids?
There is no bad time to get hearing aids. If you are struggling to hear clearly and constantly saying “what” when speaking with your family or friends, now is a good time to get hearing aids. If you feel that the people around you are mumbling or you are finding it difficult to connect with others because of hearing, hearing aids will help you.
What if Im not ready for hearing aids?
Some patients who come to us that are not ready for hearing aids. Is this you? During our consultation we thoroughly explain the results of your hearing test and give real-world examples of where you may notice difficulty hearing. That way, should you notice difficulty hearing in those situations, you will have a better understanding of why this is occurring. When you are ready to take the next step towards better hearing, Hearing Doctors of New Jersey will be here to help you!
What is the best way to fit a hearing aid?
Our proprietary H.E.A.R. Method [trademark] ensures that you never say “what” again. Our person-centered approach to hearing care includes using best practices in hearing aid evaluation, selection and fitting. You will have the confidence to have a conversation without ever missing what is said and never having to say “what” again. Hearing Doctors of New Jersey will improve your quality of life – guaranteed.
Will my hearing aids be noticeable?
We like to say that hearing aids are less noticeable than hearing loss. People notice when you are saying “what” all the time, or mishearing questions. Most hearing aids today are not noticeable.
Why do places charge so much for hearing aids?
Many places charge more for hearing aids through a practice called “bundling”, where the cost of a hearing aid is included with the services you need. This often drives up the overall price you will pay. At Hearing Doctors of New Jersey, we separate, or “unbundle” these costs. We do this to be transparent about what you are paying for and only pay for what you need, when you need it. This makes the cost for purchasing hearing aids much more affordable.
Why are hearing aids expensive?
There are a few reasons as to why hearing aids are expensive. There is a high cost for manufacturers that invest in research and development to continually innovate and improve hearing aids. This research drives up the cost for hearing aids. Secondly, many hearing aid practices bundle the cost of the hearing aids with the service associated all in one, upfront cost which can result in the device being upwards of $6,000 to $7,000 dollars. nnAt Hearing Doctors of New Jersey, we separate, or “unbundle” these costs. We do this to be transparent about what you are paying for and only pay for what you need, when you need it. This makes the cost for purchasing hearing aids much more affordable.
Whats the right way to set up a hearing aid?
When patients come to Hearing Doctors of New Jersey, we program hearing aids using Real Ear Verification Measurement, which is the gold standard for properly fitting a hearing aid. Studies have shown that only 30% of practices in the United States accurately fit hearing aids using Real Ear Verification Measurement. Hearing aids are an investment. Do you want them programmed and fit correctly?