Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I have a hearing loss?

Common signs of hearing loss include: frequently asking people to repeat themselves, turning up the TV volume, difficulty hearing in noisy environments like restaurants, and feeling like people mumble. You might also notice you’re missing phone conversations or doorbell rings. If family members have mentioned your hearing, it’s worth getting checked. A comprehensive hearing test with an audiologist can give you clear answers about your hearing health.

What’s the difference between an audiologist and a hearing aid dispenser?

An audiologist holds a doctoral degree (Au.D.) and is trained to diagnose and treat the full spectrum of hearing and balance disorders. We provide medical-grade hearing evaluations, custom treatment plans, and ongoing care. Hearing aid dispensers may sell hearing devices but don’t have the clinical training to diagnose underlying conditions or provide comprehensive audiology services like balance testing or tinnitus treatment.

When should I see an audiologist near me?

You should see an audiologist if you’re experiencing any signs of hearing difficulty, ringing in your ears (tinnitus), dizziness or balance problems, or if you’ve noticed changes in your hearing. Early intervention is key—the sooner you address hearing loss, the better your brain adapts to treatment. Even if you’re unsure, a baseline hearing test can help you monitor your hearing health over time.

What happens during a hearing test?

A complete hearing evaluation typically takes 45-60 minutes. We’ll discuss your hearing concerns and medical history, then conduct painless tests in a soundproof booth where you’ll respond to different tones and speech. We also examine your ear canal and test how well your middle ear is functioning. Afterward, we’ll review your results with you in detail and discuss any treatment options if needed.

How much do hearing aids cost? What am I paying for?

Modern hearing aids are sophisticated medical devices with advanced technology—think tiny computers for your ears. Prices vary depending on the level of technology and services included. Your audiologist will review options to fit your hearing needs, lifestyle, and budget. The cost includes the devices themselves, professional programming customized to your unique hearing loss, follow-up appointments, adjustments, cleanings, and ongoing support for the life of your hearing aids. As a HearingUp network member, we follow best practices for transparent pricing and comprehensive care that goes far beyond just selling devices.

Am I too young for hearing aids?

Hearing loss doesn’t discriminate by age—it can affect people in their 20s, 30s, 40s, and beyond due to noise exposure, genetics, or other factors. Today’s hearing aids are sleek, virtually invisible, and packed with smart technology that many users of all ages appreciate. But here’s what really matters: waiting to address hearing loss can lead to social withdrawal, communication struggles, and has even been linked to cognitive decline. Treating your hearing early keeps you engaged, active, and connected in your work and personal life. The real question isn’t whether you’re too young for hearing aids—it’s whether you’re ready to hear your best and protect your long-term brain health.

My hearing isn’t that bad yet. Should I wait to get hearing aids?

This is one of the most common things we hear, but waiting can actually make treatment harder. Your brain needs sound stimulation—when you have untreated hearing loss, the parts of your brain responsible for hearing can actually weaken over time. The earlier you treat hearing loss, the easier it is for your brain to adjust to hearing aids. Think of it like exercise: it’s easier to stay in shape than to get back in shape.

Can hearing aids help with tinnitus (ringing in the ears)?

Yes! Many people with tinnitus also have hearing loss, and hearing aids can provide significant relief. By amplifying external sounds, hearing aids help mask the ringing or buzzing and give your brain other sounds to focus on. We also offer specialized tinnitus treatment programs that combine sound therapy with counseling to help you manage symptoms effectively.

How long do hearing aids last, and what kind of maintenance do they need?

Most hearing aids last 5-7 years with proper care. Daily maintenance is simple: wipe them down with a soft, dry cloth, store them in a protective case, and keep them away from moisture. We recommend regular professional cleanings every few months, which we provide at our office. We’ll also show you easy at-home cleaning techniques during your fitting appointment.

Do hearing aids help with background noise?

Yes, modern hearing aids are specifically designed to help you hear better in noisy environments using advanced technology like directional microphones that focus on sounds in front of you (like conversation) while reducing noise from other directions, and sophisticated algorithms that suppress steady background sounds like restaurant chatter or traffic. Many premium models include automatic scene detection that adjusts settings in real-time and speech enhancement features that boost the frequencies most important for understanding conversation. While hearing aids don’t eliminate background noise entirely—you still need environmental awareness for safety—they significantly improve the signal-to-noise ratio, making it easier for your brain to focus on what you want to hear. There’s typically an adjustment period as your brain relearns to process sounds, and working with your audiologist to fine-tune settings for your specific listening environments makes a significant difference, with higher-tier technology generally offering more advanced noise management features.

Do I need a hearing test if I can hear some things just fine?

Yes—hearing loss is rarely “all or nothing.” Most people with hearing loss can hear some sounds perfectly well (like a dog barking) but struggle with others (like high-pitched voices or consonants in speech). This is why you might hear someone talking but can’t understand what they’re saying. A hearing test measures your hearing across all frequencies to show exactly where you might need help.

What does it mean that you’re part of the HearingUp network?

HearingUp is a network founded by Dr. Cliff Olson that represents audiologists committed to best practices and patient-centered care. This means we follow evidence-based protocols for hearing aid selection and fitting, provide transparent pricing, use Real Ear Measurement (the gold standard for programming hearing aids), and prioritize your long-term hearing health over sales. It’s our commitment to providing you with the highest quality audiology care.

Will my hearing get worse if I don’t wear hearing aids?

Untreated hearing loss can lead to faster cognitive decline, increased risk of falls, social isolation, and depression. While hearing aids won’t stop age-related hearing changes, they keep your brain actively processing sound, which is crucial for cognitive health. Studies show that people who treat their hearing loss stay more socially engaged and mentally sharp as they age.

Can I just buy hearing aids online or over-the-counter?

While over-the-counter options exist, they’re not customized to your specific hearing loss and don’t come with professional support. Hearing aids work best when they’re precisely programmed to your unique hearing profile using Real Ear Measurement and adjusted over time as your hearing changes. DIY hearing aids also can’t address underlying medical conditions that might be causing your hearing loss. Professional care makes a significant difference in outcomes.

Do I need one or two hearing aids?

If you have hearing loss in both ears, two hearing aids almost always provide better clarity, balance, and a more natural sound experience.

How do I get started with a hearing test in Sussex County?

Getting started is easy! Simply give us a call to schedule your comprehensive hearing evaluation. We’ll take the time to understand your concerns, test your hearing thoroughly, and discuss all your options with no pressure. Whether you’re dealing with hearing loss, tinnitus, or balance issues, we’re here to help you hear and feel your best.