Regular exposure to loud noises can gradually damage one’s hearing over time. After working in a noisy environment for many years, this is exactly what happened to Ken.

He explains, “I first realized I had a hearing problem in my 40s. I worked in a high noise environment. Although I used earplugs while in these areas, I noticed I wasn’t hearing people talk in normal conversations during breaks.

“We had a hearing specialist on site and my hearing regressed every year. I started losing the ability to hear high pitch noise people around me could pick up. I didn’t let it bother me at first, but as time moved on, I knew I had to do a better job in protecting the hearing I still had.”

Recognizing the importance of continual hearing care, Ken needed a new audiologist after moving to the area. Highline Hearing was highly recommended by his audiologist in Bellingham.

Ken says, “Since I have filed a claim with Labor and Industries, I am able to receive hearing aids and batteries without having to pay for them. However, I need to go to an audiologist to check my fit, repair or replace aids damaged or lost, and have check-ups on my current hearing ability. I’m sure it’s going to be good!”

Referring to life with hearing aids, he comments, “Hearing aids don’t replace the hearing you lost. They do help in picking up sounds I would have missed without them.

“You notice little things while wearing them. Like the turn signal in your car or birds in the air around you. My wife likes that I don’t have the volume up so loud on the TV. Being able to hear our granddaughter at the dinner table or on the baby monitor is worth wearing them.”

To those who are currently struggling with their hearing, Ken says, “Go in and get your hearing checked. If you need them, then get them! You would be surprised what you’re missing without even knowing it.

“Let the professionals help you choose aids that can be unnoticeable if you feel you need to hide them. There are so many choices these days!”