"This book will be very useful for hearing aid users and their families. It helps demystify many of the uncertainties surrounding the purchase of hearing aids, and is written in a highly readable style." --David Fabry, past president, American Academy of Audiology Approximately 10 percent of Americans (nearly one-third of people age seventy and older) have some degree of hearing loss that, if left untreated, causes frustration, isolation, and depression. A hearing aid is a simple tool to improve careers, relationships, and self-esteem, and to provide independence and security. Yet of the nearly thirty million people with hearing impairment, only about 20 percent choose to use one. This is true despite the fact that technological advances have enabled hearing aids to address a greater range of hearing losses, while making them smaller, better designed, and easier to use than those of the past. Overcoming Hearing Aid Fears can help readers take that first step to a better life. Audiologist John M. Burkey addresses common fears, concerns, and misconceptions about this topic. He provides practical information about hearing aid styles, options, and costs. His experience in caring for more than 50,000 patients will help people with hearing loss address their concerns. The book also helps family and friends understand why a loved one migh resist getting a hearing aid, and offers tips on counseling. Audiologists will find this text an important educational tool in advising their own patients. John M. Burkey is the director of audiology and speech at the Lippy Group for Ear, Nose, and Throat in Warren, Ohio. He is coauthor with his colleagues at the Lippy Group of Hearing Better: Understanding Your Hearing and Ear Care Options.

The best advice for those with hearing loss, from a leading audiologist and from patients with personal experience Where can the most accurate and helpful information about hearing loss be found? From a friend or relative who has impaired hearing? From an experienced audiologist? Both, says the author of this essential book! In an unusual new approach, audiologist John M. Burkey offers not only specific and up-to-date information based on his own extensive experience with patients, but also useful, first-hand advice from those patients themselves. The Hearing-Loss Guide presents clear, basic facts on hearing impairment and treatments, followed by candid personal recommendations from people who are coping successfully with hearing difficulties. For anyone confronting hearing loss, for family members and friends, and for others who work alongside or care for a person with a hearing impairment, this book is a must-read. Inside The Hearing-Loss Guide: * Specific practical advice from patients and family members for coping with hearing loss * A professional audiologist's clear explanations of hearing loss, current treatments, hearing aids, and other devices * Helpful suggestions for friends, co-workers, and caretakers of persons with hearing difficulties