Hearing Services
Comprehensive Hearing Services at The Heights
Hearing health is an essential aspect of our overall well-being, but it's often overlooked, especially as we age. At The Heights, we prioritize providing accessible and high-quality services to address the hearing needs of our residents. That’s why we’re delighted to collaborate with Sam Johnston of NOVA Hearing Services, a trusted Hearing Instrument Specialist, to bring regular, professional hearing care straight to our community. But what does this entail? Below, we’ll answer some of the common questions about the hearing services available at The Heights and why this partnership is valuable for our residents.
What Are Hearing Services, and Why Are They Important?
Hearing services include a range of assessments, solutions, and ongoing care designed to support individuals experiencing hearing loss or other auditory challenges. These services are vital because hearing loss impacts not just one’s ability to hear but also one's quality of life. If left untreated, it can lead to feelings of isolation, difficulty in communication, and even cognitive decline.
Convenient access to hearing care ensures that residents of assisted living facilities like The Heights don’t have to face the challenges of traveling to multiple appointments. By offering on-site services, we make it easier for residents to stay connected and engaged in their daily lives.
Who Is Sam Johnston, and What is NOVA Hearing Services?
Sam Johnston is a highly experienced Hearing Instrument Specialist who brings years of expertise to The Heights. What sets Sam and NOVA Hearing Services apart is their independent and portable practice model. Unlike large audiology chains, being independent allows NOVA Hearing Services to offer a personalized approach, tailoring solutions to each individual's unique hearing needs. Their portable service means that they can come directly to us, providing convenience and consistency for our residents.
What Happens During a Hearing Assessment?
The great news is that hearing assessments with NOVA Hearing Services are completely free. A typical hearing assessment involves several steps:
- Medical History—Sam will review the individual’s medical and hearing history to better understand their concerns and potential causes of hearing loss.
- Hearing Test—A complete hearing test uses advanced audiometric equipment to measure the individual's ability to hear different sounds, tones, and speech.
- Results Discussion—Sam explains the results in a clear and accessible way, ensuring that everyone understands their hearing health.
- Recommendations and Next Steps—Depending on the results, Sam may recommend solutions such as hearing aids, custom ear molds, or follow-up consultations.
These assessments provide a holistic view of each person’s hearing needs and set the foundation for their care plan.
Can Hearing Aids Really Make a Difference?
Yes, hearing aids can significantly improve the lives of individuals experiencing hearing loss! Modern hearing aids are nothing like the bulky, uncomfortable devices of the past. They’re discreet, comfortable, and equipped with cutting-edge technology. New features include automatic background noise adjustment, directional microphones, and wireless compatibility with smartphones and other devices.
NOVA Hearing Services excels in offering expert hearing aid fitting. A properly fitted hearing aid is crucial to ensure comfort and optimal performance. Sam Johnston works closely with residents to ensure their hearing aids meet their specific needs and preferences.
What if I’m Not Sure About Needing a Hearing Aid?
It’s completely normal to feel unsure. That’s why starting with a free hearing assessment is so valuable. Even if a hearing aid isn’t the right solution immediately, regular monitoring ensures that hearing health is managed proactively. Sam provides ongoing support and adjusts recommendations as changes in hearing occur.
Why Are Regular Hearing Check-ups Essential for Older Adults?
Hearing loss is a common issue among older adults—about one in three people aged 65+ experience some degree of hearing loss. Regular check-ups help in:
- Early Detection—Identifying hearing loss early prevents it from worsening.
- Better Communication—Addressing hearing issues promptly ensures residents stay active in conversations with family, friends, and caregivers.
- Improved Quality of Life—With proper hearing support, individuals often notice increased confidence and emotional well-being.
By offering monthly visits, Sam Johnston ensures that residents of The Heights have access to consistent care tailored to their evolving needs.
What Makes Hearing Services at The Heights Special?
The Heights goes above and beyond to provide convenient and accessible healthcare options for our residents. Having Sam Johnston and NOVA Hearing Services visit monthly means no one has to travel long distances or wait weeks for an appointment. The personalized care and friendly approach make every resident feel valued—this isn’t just a hearing test; it’s a step toward a better quality of life.
Furthermore, residents receive care in a familiar and comfortable environment. This reduces anxiety and ensures that they can focus on their well-being without unnecessary disruptions.
What if I Have Further Questions About Hearing Health?
We know that hearing health can come with plenty of questions, and NOVA Hearing Services is here to answer them all. Whether you’re curious about how hearing aids work, how often you should have your hearing checked, or what technology options are available, Sam Johnston is ready to help.
You can always reach out to The Heights staff to learn more about scheduling a hearing assessment during Sam’s next visit.
For more information, please contact Siobhan Mattingly at smattingly@churchhomes.org or (860) 953-1201 ext. 403.