Ask your audiologist...

What should I do with hearing aids that are in the drawer?

There are two things that can be done:

No. 1: If you have some hearing aids laying around that are not being used as spares, you can donate them to our office and we may be able to help someone less fortunate hear better. In-the-ear hearing aids can be donated to the Lion's Club for refurbishing. Working behind-the-ear hearing aids we can use to help someone right here in our town hear better.

We desperately need good-working behind-the-ear hearing aids. We currently have a list of local low-income people who could use hearing help. I am willing to donate our time to take these used behind-the-ear hearing aids and make a custom mold to fit someone here in our community.

No. 2: If someone is wearing their hearing aids in the drawer instead of in their ear, there is probably a reason. The aid may not be working. The aid may not sound right. The aid may not fit right.

Whatever the reason, it is important to go back to where you purchased the aid and have it repaired or adjusted for sound or fit issues. Sometimes people give up instead of solving the problem. Most hearing aid problems can be solved fairly easily. Hearing well is worth it! Do not give up! There is a time of adjustment to get used to new aids, and getting the bugs worked out takes a little patience sometimes.

Dr. Tia Flynn is a certified audiologist and has been in business for over 14 years. Every Tuesday morning from 9 a.m. to noon, Dr. Flynn provides free hearing screenings at 1601 Third St. in Coeur d'Alene. (208) 664-2767. Visit our newly updated website www.affordablehearinginc.com for an online hearing test and watch helpful videos.