SoundNews
Summer 2011
100% invisible, digital *
and fully programmable hearing aid.
Think hearing aids should be heard, not seen? Then the SoundLens by Starkey is for you. SoundLens is the first custom fit, digital and fully programmable, invisible-in-the-canal hearing aid, featuring our latest technology — meaning it’s completely invisible, and totally designed to fit your lifestyle. • Featuring Voice iQ2, Starkey’s latest noise reduction and speech preservation system designed to filter out unwanted background noise • Deep canal aid with Comfort Fit • Designed to be removed daily to promote better ear health • Virtually no whistling or buzzing • Custom designed for your ear • Designed to work on the phone
*Individual results may vary. Invisibility may vary based on your ear’s anatomy.
Sharing the Gift of Hearing with Thousands The Starkey Hearing Foundation was extremely busy in early 2011. A mission to Africa covered five countries (Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi and Zanzibar) and 10 cities in 26 days – providing more than 11,000 kids and adults with the gift of hearing. Marlee Matlin, who starred on NBC’s most recent “The Celebrity Apprentice” and is a Starkey hearing aid wearer, 20 NFL players, and USA Today reporter Alison Brower joined Foundation staff, volunteers and sponsors to make the missions a success.
Mission to Africa • 5 countries • 10 cities • 26 mission days • More than 11,000 children, parents and grandparents given the gift of hearing! The missions were held in schools, behind churches and in open markets. Each place had its own challenges and stories, but the overriding outcome was the same – the gift of hearing for many people.
Add Hearing Test to your To-Do List Just as eye exams are a part of your routine health checks, you should get regular hearing tests too. If you’ve never had one, the process is simple – most tests consist of four steps:
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Hearing test Your ears will be visually examined with an otoscope, and you’ll be tested to determine the type of hearing loss you have. Your results will be illustrated in an audiogram that your hearing professional will walk you through.
Lifestyle discussion You’ll be asked questions about the types of sound environments you frequent and
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the activities you enjoy. This is an important step, as you’ll want a solution that is customized to enhance your lifestyle.
Hearing aid options If it’s determined that hearing aids can help, you’ll get a personalized demonstration of the solution that best fits you.
Budget discussion You and your hearing professional will discuss pricing and payment options.
Hearing Loss Rising Among the Young A study published in last year’s Journal of the American Medical Association showed that hearing loss among adolescents has increased by 30% since 1990 — a reminder that one can experience hearing difficulties at any age. For adolescents, even minor hearing loss can make communication difficult, and can have long-lasting consequences. Their self-image may be negatively affected. Their ability to learn may be compromised. And they may experience difficulty developing social skills.
Take Action if Warning Signs Appear
• Sensation of fullness in ears (as if constantly plugged)
Knowing the difference between hearing loss and normal childhood inattentiveness isn’t always easy. But if you see these signs, it’s smart to contact your hearing care professional and set up a consultation.
• The need to turn the TV up loud
• An infant who doesn’t react to loud noises or a parent’s soothing voice • Complaints of ear pain • Complaints of ringing in ears
Starkey Laboratories, Inc. Starkey is a privately held, global hearing technology company headquartered in Eden Prairie, Minn. The company is recognized for its innovative design,
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development and distribution of comprehensive
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digital hearing systems.
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Founded in 1967, Starkey currently employs more than 3,500 people, operates 22 facilities and conducts
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business in more than 100 markets worldwide.
A global hearing technology company headquartered in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, U.S.A. Starkey Laboratories, Inc. 6700 Washington Avenue South Eden Prairie, MN 55344-3476 800.328.8602 www.starkey.com This has been provided by Starkey Laboratories, Inc.
© 2011 Starkey Laboratories, Inc. All Rights Reserved. NLTR0025-08-EE-ST 5/11