Agewell Health promotion for older people in New Zealand

Living With Hearing Loss

As we age so does our ability to hear. Hearing loss happens gradually and so is often difficult to detect. However, good communication with others is of vital importance in maintaining our health and happiness.

If you are having trouble hearing when there is background noise, or others complain that you have the television turned up too loud, then it may be that you have some hearing loss which would be alleviated with the use of a hearing device. A regular annual check up with your GP is a good way of assessing your overall health, and a way of highlighting any areas that may be of concern, such as your hearing. It could be something relatively minor such as a build up of wax, or a condition that requires further investigation and referral onto other health agencies or specialists.

Other Websites of Interest

ACC Subsidy for Hearing Aids

After extensive lobbying by the National Foundation for the Deaf (NFD) and other organisations, the Ministry of Health has recently carried out a review of the Hearing Aid Subsidy that is administered by Enable New Zealand.

From 1^st February 2003 the subsidy has increased from $89.50 to $198 (inc GST) for a monoaural fitting, and $396.50 (inc GST) for a biaural fitting.

For further information contact your local audiologist or hearing therapist. The NFD has a list of audiologists and therapists in your area Phone 09 307 2922 or see their website...

Websites of Interest

The Hearing Association has a great website with a list of all of their branches around New Zealand and links to other organisations which cater to those with hearing loss. There is also a helpful "advice" section which has excerpts from "Sound Advice" produced by the National Foundation for the Deaf Inc.
Also try the Hearing Association Auckland Inc website.
Try www.deafquip.co.nz website.
The Bay Audiology website has great all round information that may be of interest to you - including taking a test to see if you have a hearing loss.
An interesting site called the Sight and Hearing Association, is an American website dedicated to preventing the needless loss of loss of vision and hearing through effective screening, education, and research. Whilst the case studies are American, the information provided is relevant for New Zealand. Simply choose the logo of the category you are looking for and it will direct you to the information.
Do you having ringing in your ears? Then you may suffer from a condition called Tinnitus. There are different forms of this condition, subjective and objective and the causes vary from damage to the ear to allergies, or high blood pressure. The American Academy of Otolaryngology has an excellent site with detailed information on Tinnitus and other forms of hearing loss, including the Five Minute Hearing Test.
Meniere's Disease is a condition characterized by recurring vertigo (dizziness), hearing loss, and tinnitus (a roaring, buzzing or ringing sound in the ears). Find out more about this disease on the Meniere's Support Group of Victoria. , an Australian website.
"Deafness is a scourge" - yes this is the name of the article. Written by Eric G. Anderson and David K. Woodruff, this most informative article is an excellent read and looks related articles on hearing/hearing loss myths and helping patients adjust to hearing aids

HEARING AND TINNITUS CLINIC

University of Auckland, Tamaki Campus, School of Population Health, Building 730, Level 1,261 Morrin Road, Glen Innes, Telephone: 09 373879, Email : audiology@auckland.ac.nz
The Hearing and Tinnitus clinic was established in 2001 as part of the University of Auckland's Section of Audiology.
The clinic offers the full range of audiology services at competitive prices and is open to the public between the hours of 9.00am and 4.00pm Monday to Friday.
At your appointment, you will be seen by an experienced fully qualified Audiologist who is a member of the New Zealand Audiological Society. They will be assisted by an Audiology student in the final year of their Master of Audiology degree. These professionals have access to the latest research and technology to ensure you receive best-practice care.
The clinic specialises in research into aural rehabilitation, in particular, tinnitus and hyperacusis.

To make an appointment, phone the clinic on (09) 373 8791.

Please Note Age Concern North Shore has tried to ensure that all information on this website is correct. However, Age Concern North Shore does not accept liability for any statements or advice contained on, or omissions from, nor endorse any suggested site on this website. Other websites referred to on this website are here for reference only. The information on this website should not be regarded as a substitute for professional advice and we do suggest that you consult with your health, legal or financial professional.

Website last updated 30/06/2010