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All About Different Hearing Aid Features

Many people assume that hearing loss is much more rare than it actually is. There are all kinds of reasons for this. One, it is an invisible liability, meaning, you can not tell that someone has hearing loss simply by looking at them. And secondly, hearing loss is vastly under-represented and misrepresented in popular culture. If you see a character with hearing loss in a television show or movie, chances are, this hearing loss is their defining aspect above all else. When in reality, with appropriate treatment, hearing loss should not impact anyone’s life more than wearing eyeglasses does. 

More than 13% of the population of the United States over the age of 18 lives with some detectable degree of disabling hearing loss. Tragically, more than two-thirds of these people minimize the severity of their condition and choose to cope without seeking an appropriate treatment program. But among those that do deal with it responsibly, using a hearing aid is far and away the most common element of their treatment plans. 

More than seven percent of Americans aged 45 and older use a hearing aid regularly. But studies reveal another sad trend: among those who do wear hearing aids, they wait an average of seven years to do so, from the moment that they first suspected they should until they actually made a habit of doing so. There is no good excuse for this.

Hearing Aid Basics

The most basic hearing aids of today work much more effectively than the most advanced models of the past. But the same four elements are still the basis for all hearing aids: the microphone, the processor, the receiver and the power source. It is relatively simple to understand the function of each part. 

The microphone picks up the sound present in the environment and transmits it to the processor. 

The processor cleans and boosts the signal and transmits it to the receiver.

The receiver conveys the sound to the ear canal. 

And of course the power source powers everything. 

The greatest advancements that have been made in hearing aid technologies over the last decades have all happened within the subtlety and sophistication of the processor. Choosing the exact right hearing aid model to suit your personal needs and priorities will involve all kinds of factors, but most of the features you will choose from all happen within the processor. 

Considerations

To choose the hearing aid model just right for you, specialists recommend starting with these four elements. 

First, telecoils. Telecoils have existed for a long time, but advancements in their fidelity and an expansion of their availability have made them more helpful than ever before. Using a telecoil, your processor bypasses the microphone and directly receives electromagnetic signals. This improves the signal to noise ratio and diminishes the possibility of feedback when you are attending public performances, exhibits, or religious services.

Bluetooth is a more recent technological advancement that works similarly. Using bluetooth people can connect the processors in their hearing aids directly to their personal devices, such as their smart phone or TV. 

Other significant advancements beyond the processor include rechargeable batteries, and the overall design of hearing aids has made them more comfortable and discreet than ever before.

More Features to Choose From

Directional Microphones boost the sound in front of you and diminish the sounds from behind to help with clarity and focus.

The binaural processing technology of wireless hearing aids synchronizes your two hearing aids to function as one unit. 

Digital Noise Reduction systems analyze the signal to determine which noises are probably unwanted, like the roar of passing traffic, for example, and filter out these sounds. 

Impulse Noise Reduction recognizes sudden loud noises, like the clinking of dishes, for example, and instantaneously cuts this volume.  

Feedback Management Systems minimize problems with feedback. 

Data Logging stores information about the different environments you visit and the preferences you select in each one. With access to these preferences your provider can customize your hearing aids even more precisely. 

It’s Up To You

Because each person’s hearing loss is unique to them, each person’s needs will also be unique. Some hearing aids mask tinnitus. Others are waterproof for extended durations. Only you can say what exactly your needs and priorities are. Make an appointment with one of our hearing specialists today to experience the world at its fullest.

Schedule Your Hearing Assessment

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Jack Becker
Jack Becker
1743133824
5stars great caring service. Scott is the best. Love my aids.would not go anywhere else.
Jerome Bryant
Jerome Bryant
1742786201
Dennis Ferrell
Dennis Ferrell
1740706909
I recently got evaluated by Upstate Hearing and purchased some state-of-the-art hearing aids from them. The clinicians were professional and competent. All staff I encountered, from the front desk to the clinical staff, were courteous and helpful. They went the extra mile to accommodate my crazy schedule. I would recommend them to anyone needing help with a hearing problem. One nice thing about Upstate Hearing is they offer devices from a variety of manufacturers and not just one with whom they have a special financial relationship.
Sheila Wentz
Sheila Wentz
1740682588
They have always been so kind explaining everything best place for hearing aids
chad linden
chad linden
1739990848
Very good experience, in Susanville,curious, waiting room was clean, and the experience with the Doctor was nice, He explained everything to me spent an hour with me just to make sure I knew how to put in and maintain my hearing aides
Garry Pritchard
Garry Pritchard
1739575562
Excellent. Spent full hour setting up new hearing aids for my very difficult fitting
Silverliningsgirl NATALIE PAGANO
Silverliningsgirl NATALIE PAGANO
1736984145
Wonderful people and very helpful
Jane Draper
Jane Draper
1734758782
I received expert care and testing. I was prescribed excellent high quality hearing aids that really opened up the world to me. I had previously not been able to find words with prior hearing aids.
Gary Lackey
Gary Lackey
1734658437
Absolute great service. I felt the price was high but still purchased because of Customer Service.
Larry Davis
Larry Davis
1734658295
Joshua went out of his way to open their office on a Saturday to assist with fitting me with my first set of hearing aids. He was very thorough and listened hen I had a question or concern. His knowledge was spot on and made it a great and fun experience for me. Everyone else I spoke with was kind and caring, helping me navigate through this. I fully recommend UpState to anyone who needs hearing aids or just advice. Thanks to all of you :)
Ken Mehle
Ken Mehle
1734222214
My experience with Christa and Upstate Hearing in Chico has been spectacular. Christa was fully immersed in helping me deal with my particular and somewhat unusual requirements. She was very patient and understanding, and went all out to ensure I was satisfied with my hearing aids.I can recommend Upstate Hearing 100%.
Jennifer Worden
Jennifer Worden
1730881248
I couldn't get in to see the local audiologist for 4 months. But Upstate Hearing got me in, evaluated and a new hearing aid within a month. Very friendly staff and technician. He even tried to fix my old hearing aid.
Anne Ryder
Anne Ryder
1730225265
Les Williams
Les Williams
1727991782
Joshua was great a patient with me helping to make sure we selected the right hearing aid. The model of allowing patients time to process the fitting is perfect.
Paul Campbell
Paul Campbell
1727838826
I had a great experience with Upstate Hearing. Christa was genuinely interested in the issues I'm experiencing and took a lot amount of time asking meaningful questions and offering unique and insightful advice. Very professional, knowledgeable and compassionate. I wouldn't think twice about recommending them and appreciated all the help.
Miguel Moreno
Miguel Moreno
1726798772
In a time when service seems to be non-existent, this is not the case with UpState Hearing. Joshua went above and beyond the call and was a pleasure to do business with. I recommend him and his crew wholeheartedly. It's hard to find places like this anymore, and I feel lucky to have found this one. Thanks for everything!
Sharon Schrum
Sharon Schrum
1722298871
Very caring. Appointments on time. Everyone is so nice
Eva Croft
Eva Croft
1720817549
Upstate staff are so very knowledgeable and caring. I wholeheartedly recommend them for those looking for hearing aid support. I go to their Red Bluff office mostly and you won’t find a better friend to help you than Jake. The Redding office are awesome as well. I want to say THANK YOU to them all for being there for the needs of the hearing impaired!
the paisley channel Larsen
the paisley channel Larsen
1719790738
I am very pleased with the service I received I am enjoying my experience with my new hearing aids and would recommend this place to people
Delaney Andersson
Delaney Andersson
1719255455
I just had a new patient exam at UpState Hearing Instruments, and I cannot speak highly enough of this clinic! The entire experience, from the initial phone intake with Bryce, to the moment I walked in and was greeted by Kassidy at the front desk - to being seen personally by Joshua Fockler, HIS, was fantastic. The staff was friendly and efficient, and Joshua was not only knowledgeable but also took the time to address each and every one of my questions (I ask a lot!!) and concerns. He was kind, affirming, empathetic, patient, and seriously, when I say knowledgeable-that is an understatement! I felt well taken care of and set up for success as a patient; l even got a cool folder with all of my information and details of the exam upon leaving.If you or a loved one needs a hearing evaluation, continued care, hearing aids, repairs, or hearing protection - please do not hesitate to check them out! Their scheduling process is super easy and fast, and their clinic is totally worth the experience. Highly recommend!
Shellee Anders
Shellee Anders
1715454264
Absolutely wonderful. Took less than 3 months to get. New owners and couldn't be happier with the friendly staff
Miranda Kremer
Miranda Kremer
1715098034
Great people! Great service! My hearing aid has totally changed my life. Thank you.
Charleen Crespin
Charleen Crespin
1711752442
Great experience!
Matt Rifkin
Matt Rifkin
1710982649
A very positive experience. The staff are friendly and professional. Easy to get an appointment at a convenient time. Jake spent a lot of time going over options and answering my questions completely. One of the demo models malfunctioned and they were able to replace it the following day. Jake was very prompt in answering my email questions. I emailed him late on a Friday with a question about setting up a TV adapter and he called me 30 minutes later and helped get me up and running over the phone. I look forward to a long relationship with UpState.
Nathan Hurst
Nathan Hurst
1710104294
I needed to replace the hearing aids lost in the Camp Fire so I chose to go to UpState and I made the right choice.The facilities and the staff are fantastic.I would recommend them highly.
Angela Hart
Angela Hart
1708028296
Absolutely love this place. Everybody there is very courteous and down to earth. They make everybody who walks through their door feel right at home. The office is very nice and clean. Got my hearing aids so much quicker than I thought I would. They make sure you have everything you need and answer any questions you might have. If you having trouble hearing I highly recommend you give Upstate Hearing a call. You'll be glad you did.
katrina charmatz
katrina charmatz
1707587008
they are very professional, sanitized!, helpful, available for appts, and surprisingly good medical care for up here.
Richard Richards
Richard Richards
1707343518
I have been using Up State Hearing in Redding for many years; and over those years as my hearing has continued to decline, the folks at Up State Hearing have continued to help me by steering me towards the new and improved technology that has become available.I have always found that the Up State Hearing team has been patient and knowledgeable, willing to keep working with me and with my wife so that we can learn together how to best use the hearing instruments to maximize the capabilities of the advanced technology available with the newest hearing instruments.I recommend and encourage you to find out about Up State’s Complimentary 2-Week Test Drive where they will test your hearing and allow you to try out the best hearing instruments available for two weeks to see for yourself how much of a difference being able to hear and understand what is going on around you. Do it for yourself and for the other people you interface with. Find out about the ability to hear on your cell phone and the television; it is a great feeling to be able to hear and understand your grandkids again. Give the people at Up State a chance to improve your life and the lives of the people you care about.
Jim Weaver
Jim Weaver
1707236959
The people here are so caring and professional. Always enjoy going in for check up or supplies.
Marie priolo
Marie priolo
1707078332
Upstate Hearing Instruments is Great!I've had a great experience s with Jacob and Ken for a number of years. Staff are always helpful, knowledgeable, honest, and available.
Nadina Darrah
Nadina Darrah
1706142479
Upstate is very professional and knows their business well.
Dennis HAKE
Dennis HAKE
1705936910
Upstate Hearing Has been very accomodating in my search for the correct hearing aids for me. I will gladly recommend them to anyone who is searching for an improvement to their hearing abilities.
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Bruce Jenkins
1705600413
Great Experience!
Kevin Crum
Kevin Crum
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Ric Brown
Ric Brown
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Sophia McKinnon
Sophia McKinnon
1703831452
Ararespecies Skidiveliveride
Ararespecies Skidiveliveride
1702612119
My appointment was an exceptional experience. Dr. Flocker was very thorough, well educated, passionate, knowledgeable and helpful. 1st class service.
heather stevens
heather stevens
1700617789
Love the service. They know how to meet the needs of their customers and make everything easy and comfortable.
Nancy Carver
Nancy Carver
1700421028
I can't say enough about the staff at the Chico office! I have several issues going on with my ears and hearing. Christa and Rene addressed them the best they could and even went above and beyond, to help me. Both their knowledge and concern is amazing. They realized I needed to be referred out of the area for care. Be assured I will be back to the office for hearing devices.
Lawrence Jones
Lawrence Jones
1698953891
If you have to say what all the time, This is the place to go!!! Excellent staff and hearing techs ever!!! Good attitude and very good instructions! I’m very happy to listen again without saying what!!!
Jena Vincent
Jena Vincent
1698082967
Fantastic, friendly, very thorough service. I had never had a full hearing exam before. Joshua explained each step in a courteous and delightful manner and helped me get some devices which have already changed my life. I have my full hearing back and then some. He made the process very enjoyable and I highly recommend Upstate Hearing!
Joseph Howard
Joseph Howard
1693170811
Tim Urmann
Tim Urmann
1686316021
Kim Ellison
Kim Ellison
1677197733
Upstate Hearing is, by far, the best hearing aid provider I have ever experienced, and I have experienced a few.Christa pinpointed my hearing issues, gave me several options (each explained clearly and concisely), and let me try out and ultimately choose what I thought best for me. No hard sell; just good information, an honest and accurate hearing assessment, and great after- sale support.Christa and Rene (front desk) are the best!
Brandy Foushee
Brandy Foushee
1661717231
Ric Brown
Ric Brown
1658516274
Outstanding service and staff for hearing health.
Karen Everatt
Karen Everatt
1654059625
My experience goes way back! I have always like the they treated me and listened to my issues! Christa is amazing!
Indi G
Indi G
1650119270
Great people!
Theresa Rose
Theresa Rose
1642960293
Frances Porter
Frances Porter
1637000598
Jon Luvaas
Jon Luvaas
1625589208
Christa is extremely knowledgeable and Renee very attentive to my personal hearing needs.They are very courteous and responsive whenever I need help with my hearing aids.
Irene Woodward
Irene Woodward
1624996503
Upstate hearing has been so helpful. Christa and Rene have been great. My mom is 87 years old and has not been able to hear well for about 5 years with her hearing aids. Her aids are v er ry old. They have adjusted her aids, put bigger microphones on them and had custom molds made for her ears. My mom can hear everything now for the first time in years. She has a smile on her face now and no longer feels left out. Thank you so much for taking the time to keep working on this to get it wright for her.
Amanda Rouse
Amanda Rouse
1624055640
Upstate Hearing has been amazing to work with!It is very important for me to feel comfortable about where invest my energy, time and resources - I have not been let down.I have been treated with patience and respect, receiving quality information and education on hearing loss, products and services.Working with Christa has been a pleasure, and an honor - she takes time and care to really custom tailor the services provided.I highly recommend Upstate Hearing!
Misty Kafader
Misty Kafader
1621063150
Absolutely amazing staff and great atmosphere.
Andy Adams
Andy Adams
1612406209
Scott just fit me for the new Oticon hearing aids. Wow they are awesome. They sound so clear. Thanks
Judy Petrucelli
Judy Petrucelli
1601229012
So refreshing and knowledgeable.
Julie Suniga
Julie Suniga
1582642318
When I finally made the decision to do something about my hearing loss two different friends recommended Christa at Upstate. Rene set up my appointment and sent me some paperwork to complete before my visit.When I arrived, she made me feel right at home while I waited. During my initial meeting with Christa, she instantly put me at ease. She did a complete hearing exam and test and then we talked about options. Her suggestion was to try hearing aids to see what I thought, no pressure. Well, I fell in love with the ability to hear clearly and her! She is very accommodating, warm and friendly. Yes, I highly recommend the team of Christa and Rene at Upstate.
James Wilson
James Wilson
1558132196
Kathleen Gebauer
Kathleen Gebauer
1533179368
Great service. Great products.
Aric Cook
Aric Cook
1522724940
Upstate hearing has made wearing my hearingA joy. The fit and settings are just perfect. They are always very courteous and pleasant to deal with.
Al Barbara
Al Barbara
1515434655
Robert Wells
Robert Wells
1504031751
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