This Week in Hearing

Olympic gold medalist swimmer Rowdy Gaines joins Gael Hannan for a candid conversation about his experience with hearing loss. He shares how he first noticed issues in his 50s, likely due to hereditary factors, ear infections from years of competitive swimming, and exposure to loud environments. Rowdy describes initially being in denial about needing hearing aids before getting properly fitted with a set of prescription devices from that have tremendously improved his hearing ability. He emphasizes the life-changing impact his new Signia hearing aids have had, especially for his work as a broadcaster covering major swimming events like the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympics. Rowdy praises being able to differentiate voices more clearly and highlights the importance of strong communication with his broadcasting partner. He also reflects on overcoming the stigma he felt about wearing hearing aids by applying the same discipline he had as an elite athlete. Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn and X (formerly Twitter). - https://twitter.com/WeekinHearing - https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearing - https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/

Are you ready to dive into the future of hearing healthcare? Join us on May 8th, 15th, and 22nd for an immersive experience where you can earn Continuing Education Units (CEUs) while exploring the latest developments, trends, and technologies shaping the future of the field. Our conference brings together leading experts to inspire you with new ideas and provide valuable resources to enhance your clinical practice. With nearly 25 hours of educational content available, you'll have ample opportunities to stay ahead in the industry. But that's not all! As an attendee, you'll also have the chance to win over $7,000 in giveaways drawn throughout the event. From incredible speakers to awesome giveaways, this conference is not to be missed. Don't miss your chance to be a part of this transformative event. Secure your spot today and join us as we unlock the future of hearing healthcare together! To learn more and to register, click here: https://www.accelevents.com/e/Future-of-Hearing-Healthcare-2024

Dave Kemp interviews Trevon Bruch, the founder of Safewave, a startup creating a Bluetooth-enabled wristband connecting to smart home and security devices, enabling discreet vibration alerts over auditory notifications. Trevon shares Safewave's origin story driven by a mission to offer accessible tech solutions, especially for the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community, detailing the extensive R&D, partnerships, and community input influencing Safewave's evolution over five years. One of the key highlights is Safewave's ability to seamlessly integrate with a wide range of smart devices, from doorbells and baby monitors to workplace security systems. This versatility allows users to customize their notification preferences and create a tailored, haptic-based awareness system. Trevon also touches on the potential applications of Safewave for caregivers, individuals with cognitive impairments, and other groups who can benefit from discreet, wearable alerts. After more than 5 years of development, Safewave is poised to launch in May 2024. You can visit the company's website to learn more: https://safewavetech.com/ Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn and X (formerly Twitter). - https://twitter.com/WeekinHearing - https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearing - https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/

Dr. Robert DiSogra has had a diverse career spanning industrial, clinical research, teaching, and private practice. He owned and managed his Freehold-based practice for three decades until 2015. Dr. Disogra's extensive teaching experience spans undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels, complemented by notable contributions through national and international publications and lectures. Dr. DiSogra is widely recognized for his contributions to understanding the pharmacological effects on hearing and balance among audiologists worldwide. His interest in pharmacology began at Rutgers University over 25 years ago, where he observed a discrepancy between patients' complaints of hearing loss and their test results indicating no peripheral loss. This prompted him to conduct a unprecedented review of evidence, uncovering the influences of pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals on hearing loss and tinnitus. In the past two decades, Dr. DiSogra has significantly influenced the field of audiology through a series of publications. He has identified over 400 adverse auditory and vestibular side effects associated with more than 2000 drugs. Furthermore, his pioneering efforts led to the development and teaching of the pharmacology/ ototoxicity distance-learning course at Salus University. This initiative has played a crucial role in integrating pharmacology into audiology education, furthering the understanding of how drugs affect hearing and balance. By 2019, Dr. DiSogra's influence had led to 25 AuD programs offering dedicated pharmacology courses, underscoring the importance of understanding pharmacological connections to hearing and balance disorders. A sought-after presenter at state and national audiology association meetings, Dr. DiSogra has left a lasting legacy in the field. Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn and X (formerly Twitter). - https://twitter.com/WeekinHearing - https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearing - https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/

Bob Traynor is joined by Dr. Frank Musiek to discuss an upcoming symposium focused on the latest insights into Central Auditory Processing Disorders (CAPD) and Neuroaudiology. The upcoming event, titled "Quest for the Best CAPD and Neuroaudiology," will bring together a panel of distinguished experts to explore advancements and practical applications in the field. From discussing diagnostic methodologies to sharing rehabilitation strategies, attendees can expect a comprehensive overview of current research and clinical practices. Join leading figures like Doris Bamiou, Nina Kraus, and Jeanane Ferre as they delve into the intersection of science and clinical expertise. Whether you're a seasoned audiologist or a researcher, this symposium offers an invaluable opportunity to deepen your understanding and engage in meaningful discussions. For more details about the symposium, taking place on April 27th, visit: https://hearinghealthmatters.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Pathways_Agenda2-1.pdf

Monica Dreger, the Global Head of Research at Airbnb, brings a unique blend of intuitive insight and finely honed listening skills to her career, rooted in her background in behavioral psychology. Her professional journey has been marked by a dedication to understanding consumer behavior and strategic planning for renowned brands like Mattel, Nickelodeon, and Unilever. However, alongside her successes, Dreger's personal experience with hearing loss has been a defining aspect of her life. Growing up in Europe, she initially didn't recognize her hearing difficulties until returning to the United States for college, where the absence of subtitles while watching TV with roommates highlighted her hearing was not typical. This realization spurred her journey to seek help and normalize the use of hearing aids, ultimately leading to her advocacy for hearing health awareness. Monica highlights the transformative impact of modern hearing aids, which have significantly improved her daily life with features such as discretion, Bluetooth connectivity, and freedom from battery anxiety. As both an advocate for hearing health and a Widex Sound Ambassador, Monica encourages others to advocate for their needs and foster supportive environments in the workplace and beyond. Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn and X (formerly Twitter). - https://twitter.com/WeekinHearing - https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearing - https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/

This week, Brian Taylor sits down with Dr. Alison Huang, a senior research associate at the John Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, to delve into the complex relationship between loneliness, social networks, and hearing loss. Dr. Huang shares her expertise as both an epidemiologist and a gerontologist, discussing the prevalence of social isolation and loneliness among older adults, particularly exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Highlighting the distinctions between social isolation and loneliness, she explains how hearing loss can contribute to feelings of loneliness, even in the presence of a social network. The conversation also explores findings from the ACHIEVE study, a groundbreaking randomized trial testing the effect of hearing intervention on cognitive decline and other health outcomes among older adults with untreated hearing loss. Dr. Huang provides insights into the study's primary outcomes, challenges, and implications for clinical practice, emphasizing the importance of increasing awareness of hearing health and destigmatizing hearing intervention. Finally, she shares insights into upcoming projects aimed at further understanding the impact of hearing intervention on social and mental health outcomes. Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn and X. - https://twitter.com/WeekinHearing - https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearing - https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/

This week, host Bob Traynor welcomes Vanessa Gauthier-Davidson from Shoebox to discuss the evolution of online hearing screening and shed light on the development of Shoebox's online screening tool. The discussion covers the development process, accuracy factors, and the customizable nature of Shoebox's online screener. Vanessa discusses why an increasing number of clinics are implementing such screeners, highlighting their role in expanding hearing health awareness, serving as an educational tool, and facilitating patient-clinician conversations. She also unveils recent enhancements, including an onsite mode, catering to a more controlled environment. Those interested to learn more about the Shoebox online screener can visit the company's website: https://www.shoebox.md/ Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn and X. - https://twitter.com/WeekinHearing - https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearing - https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/

This week, host Dave Kemp is joined by Dr. David Rein to delve into the groundbreaking Sound Check study, a collaborative research and communications project led by NORC at the University of Chicago. This initiative aims to unveil the extent of hearing loss across the United States by state and county, highlighting its pervasive nature, especially among adults. With rates of hearing loss escalating notably from age 35 onwards, the study underscores the urgent need for enhanced prevention and screening efforts to safeguard physical and mental wellbeing. Partnering with organizations like Burness, ASHA, NCHAM, and the Johns Hopkins Cochlear Center, Sound Check brings attention to the critical role of regular screenings and hearing protection in mitigating the adverse impacts of untreated hearing loss. Check out the interactive Sound Check Map here Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn and X. - https://twitter.com/WeekinHearing - https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearing - https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/

The Widex SmartRIC is a recently introduced hearing aid featuring a unique L-shaped design, strategically placing the microphones in a more horizontal orientation to enhance directionality and speech comprehension, particularly in noisy environments. In this week's discussion, Dana Helmink, AuD, Senior Director of Audiological Development at Widex, joins host Andrew Bellavia to provide an in-depth exploration of the company's newest device. Beyond speech-in-noise gains, the SmartRIC’s redesigned microphone cover also slashes wind noise by up to 20 dB. The portable charger was designed to meet modern tech consumer expectations - it easily fits in pockets and purses while providing up to 37 hours of use per charge. Dr. Helmink also highlights the SmartRIC's sleek and contemporary aesthetic, challenging the stigma associated with traditional hearing aids by offering a modern alternative to traditional devices, particularly appealing to younger individuals. Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn and X. - https://twitter.com/WeekinHearing - https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearing - https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/

Drs. David Eagleman and Izzy Kohler from Neosensory, join Amyn Amlani to explore their latest research findings on tinnitus management and speech clarity, utilizing the company's unique haptic wristband. The Washington Post recently highlighted Neosensory's Duo product, which has shown promising results in significantly reducing tinnitus loudness and frequency. The research found that the reduction in TFI scores were even greater among individuals experiencing moderate to severe symptoms after 8 weeks. This advancement offers audiologists a new treatment option to consider for their patients. In a newly published study, Neosensory explored the effectiveness of their Clarify product in improving speech comprehension for those with high-frequency hearing loss. By detecting high-frequency speech sounds and delivering distinct vibration patterns, the Clarify demonstrated notable enhancements in speech understanding in users with and without hearing aids. The company is currently exploring different vibration patterns for signaling detected speech sounds, aiming to enhance user experience. Additionally, due to a growing level of interest among hearing professionals, they transitioning towards greater collaborating with audiology clinics to broaden access to their technology. By providing supplementary sensory information to the brain, Neosensory's wristbands offer a promising avenue for improving both tinnitus management and speech comprehension alongside auditory input. **For audiologists interested in more information or partnering with Neosensory can contact the company at: audiology@neosensory.com Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn and Twitter.

At the recent Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, companies from around the world showcased their latest technologies. Dave Kemp hosts Andrew Bellavia to discuss his firsthand experience at CES, with a focus on innovations in hearing and hearable devices. Andy sheds light on the overarching technological advancements that are shaping the future of hearing devices. During his time at CES, Andy had insightful discussions with various companies. He spoke with EssilorLuxottica about their groundbreaking hearing aid glasses and visited Absolute Audio Labs to explore their latest developments and partnership with Renesas. Additionally, Andy engaged in discussions with the teams from Knowles and AVAtronics, as well as JLabs' plans for entering the over-the-counter (OTC) market in 2024. Dave and Andy analyze the implications of these new developments and discuss the latest trends in the hearing health and audio industries. They highlight key takeaways from CES, offering valuable insights into the future of audio technology and its impact on hearing health. Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn and Twitter. - https://twitter.com/WeekinHearing - https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearing - https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/

Dr. Michael Valente's remarkable career in audiology, spanning over 30 years at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, has left an indelible mark on the field of audiology. Holding various roles such as director, professor, researcher, and clinician, he has been a prolific author and editor, contributing significantly to the profession's knowledge base. Dr. Valente's focus on amplification challenges yielded groundbreaking research in areas like dual and directional microphone technology, real-ear verification, and treatments for single-sided deafness, influencing clinical practices worldwide. As both a clinician and educator, Dr. Valente seamlessly translated his research into practical applications, offering valuable insights through workshops and courses globally. Additionally, he played a pivotal role in advocating for audiology's transition to an evidence-based profession, shaping treatment efficacy, verification practices, and best practice guidelines. Collaborating with peers, he helped establish standards of care, laying the foundation for evidence-based methodologies in audiology. Dr. Valente's leadership and forward-thinking vision have had a lasting impact, shaping the careers of young clinicians and ensuring the profession's continued growth and excellence. Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn and Twitter. - https://twitter.com/WeekinHearing - https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearing - https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/

Shari Eberts sits down with Stephen Schultz, a globally acclaimed baroque flutist, to discuss his remarkable career and journey with hearing loss. Schultz, recognized for his flawless artistry on the Baroque flute, reveals his struggle with otosclerosis, a middle ear condition that led to a progressive hearing loss. Overcoming initial apprehensions regarding stigma and professional consequences, Schultz embraced discreet hearing aids, ultimately finding an ideal match with his audiologist and the latest Widex technology, set to his individual needs. His positive experience recently led him to become a Widex Brand Ambassador. Schultz aims to destigmatize hearing loss by sharing his positive experience, advocating for early solutions among musicians, and emphasizing the transformative impact of advanced hearing aid technology in preserving and enhancing musical journeys. Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn and Twitter.

In this engaging conversation with Gael Hannan, wellness and nutrition expert Kevin English recounts his transformative journey to improved health and addressing his hearing loss. Confronting challenges of weight, inactivity, and stress in his 40s, Kevin initiated substantial lifestyle changes after a hospitalization wake-up call. Over the next decade, he honed healthy habits, and now approaching 60, Kevin serves as a full-time online nutrition coach and personal trainer, a testament to his commitment to holistic wellness. He is also the host of the popular podcast 'The Over 50 Health & Wellness Podcast'. Despite years of family jokes about needing hearing aids, Kevin initially denied his hearing loss until a podcast interview with the CEO of HearUSA prompted him to undergo testing, revealing significant hearing loss. Embracing hearing aids markedly enhanced his participation in group conversations, leading Kevin to champion the importance of holistic wellness, particularly emphasizing the critical role of healthy hearing in cognitive health. Kevin advocates for a well-rounded approach to health, highlighting the significance of regular exercise, proper nutrition, stress management, and quality sleep. He explores how proactive management of hearing health contributes to overall well-being, opening up new possibilities and enhancing life's quality at any age. Check out the Over 50 Health & Wellness Podcast here: Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn and Twitter.

Host Amyn Amlani speaks with Victoria Carr-Brendel, President of Advanced Bionics and Group Vice President (GVP) of Cochlear Implants at Sonova, about the recent advancements in Advanced Bionics' Marvel cochlear implant product and its associated features. Following FDA approval, the company is broadening its Marvel CI product line to include remote programming accessible via patients' smartphones, linked two-ear solutions featuring a CROS device, all aiming to enhance accessibility and outcomes for cochlear implant users. Moreover, the updated Target CI version 1.5 is designed to improve programming software efficiency for both cochlear implants and hearing instruments, underscoring AB's commitment to advancing hearing care options. Throughout the discussion, Carr-Brendel highlights how transformative remote programming is and how it aligns with Advanced Bionics' mission to expand hearing care access. She stresses its potential to greatly benefit patients who previously faced barriers due to traditional clinic-based limitations, emphasizing its capacity to boost patient engagement and simplify the programming process for audiologists. References: Company websiteWhite paper on AB's remote programming⁠AB Linked Two-Ear Solutions Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn and Twitter. - https://twitter.com/WeekinHearing - https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearing - https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/

This week, host Gael Hannan has an insightful discussion with audiologist Nashlea Brogan, AuD, about her personal experience with progressive hearing loss. Diagnosed as a teenager, Brogan went on to get hearing aids and eventually bilateral cochlear implants as her hearing worsened over time. She shares openly about her journey, from struggling with hearing aid use in high school to the major identity shifts brought on by cochlear implantation. Brogan provides a unique perspective as both an audiologist and person with hearing loss. She explains how her own challenges have given her empathy for patients and an understanding of real-world hearing difficulties beyond the clinic. She stresses the need to educate audiology students and professionals on the lived experiences of those with hearing loss. She discusses how she uses social media, speaking engagements, and monthly workshops to share her insights with both audiologists and those living with hearing loss. Overall, Brogan aims to change perspectives and improve communication and support for all. Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn and Twitter.

This week, Dr. Victoria Sanchez of the University of South Florida, and Dr. Shannon Basham of Phonak, join host Amyn Amlani to discuss the ACHIEVE study, a multi-year randomized controlled trial examining the effects of best-practice hearing care interventions on cognitive decline in older adults. The study results found that for those at higher risk of cognitive decline, providing hearing aids and counseling slowed cognitive decline by 48% over 3 years compared to a control group. The hearing intervention utilized comprehensive audiological evaluations, evidence-based device fitting, and patient education and support. While additional analyses continue, these significant findings demonstrate the potential impact optimized hearing care can have on supporting long-term cognitive health. The panelists emphasize that complex research like ACHIEVE requires interdisciplinary expertise and collaboration. As the field increasingly focuses on the connections between hearing and cognition, audiologists will need to take a more holistic approach in managing patients while partnering closely with physicians, researchers and others. Resources like Phonak's upcoming ECHHO training program will help clinicians translate recent research on hearing and cognitive health into effective patient care and communication. With cognitive decline emerging as a major health issue, audiology has an opportunity to play a central role in providing interventions that support cognitive health in aging adults. More information about the ECHHO program can be found here: https://www.sonova.com/en/media/phonak-introduces-echho-program-enhance-understanding-link-between-hearing-loss-and-cognitive General acknowledgements and funding for ACHIEVE Parent Study: Members of the ACHIEVE Collaborative Research Group are listed at achievestudy.org. The Aging and Cognitive Health Evaluation in Elders (ACHIEVE) Study is supported by the National Institute on Aging (NIA) R01AG055426 and R01AG060502 with previous pilot study support from the NIA R34AG046548 and the Eleanor Schwartz Charitable Foundation, in collaboration with the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) Study, supported by National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute contracts (HHSN268201700001I, HHSN268201700002I, HHSN268201700003I, HHSN268201700005I, HHSN268201700004I). Neurocognitive data are collected by 2U01HL096812, 2U01HL096814, 2U01HL096899, 2U01HL096902, 2U01HL096917 from the NIH (NHLBI, NINDS, NIA and NIDCD), and with previous brain MRI examinations funded by R01HL70825 from the NHLBI. The funder of the study had no role in study design, data collection, data analysis, data interpretation, writing of the report, or the decision to submit for publication. The investigators thank the staff and participants of the ACHIEVE and ARIC studies for their important contributions and dedication to the study, Sonova / Phonak for in-kind donation of hearing technologies and training support of audiologists for the ACHIEVE study, and the members of the ACHIEVE DSMB (Doug Galasko, Julie Buring, Judy Dubno, Tom Greene, and Larry Lustig) for their guidance and insights during the course of the study. ACHIEVE Hearing Intervention Follow-up Study (ACHIEVE – HIFU) The Aging and Cognitive Health Evaluation in Elders (ACHIEVE) Hearing Intervention Follow-Up Study (ACHIEVE – HIFU) is supported by the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) R01DC019408. ACHIEVE Brain Health Follow-up Study (ACHIEVE – BHFU) The Aging and Cognitive Health Evaluation in Elders (ACHIEVE) Brain Health Follow-Up Study (ACHIEVE – BHFU) is supported by the National Institute on Aging (NIA) R01AG076518. The Aging and Cognitive Health Evaluation in Elders (ACHIEVE) Hearing Intervention Follow-Up Study (ACHIEVE – HIFU) is supported by the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) R01DC019408.

The transition from working as a clinical audiologist to taking on a role in a corporate audiology setting can be a major career shift. A group of audiology professionals discusses their own journeys from clinic to corporate and the challenges and rewards such a change can bring. The panelists highlight the importance of being open-minded, embracing new adventures and diverse experiences that corporate audiology makes possible through increased travel and exposure to different clinical practices and cultures worldwide. While corporate work comes with tradeoffs like increased time away from family, the group emphasizes the possibilities for expanding your horizons professionally and personally. They advise anyone considering the transition to connect with corporately-based colleagues to get insights on day-to-day realities. Panelists urge audiologists to see each role as part of a journey and collecting formative experiences, even if your first corporate audiology job isn’t your “dream position.” Overall the discussion focuses on encouraging audiologists to take the risk, knowing they can always return to clinic armed with new knowledge and perspectives to better serve patients. Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn and Twitter. - https://twitter.com/WeekinHearing - https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearing - https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/

HearUSA President Nick Mengerink outlines the company’s strategy to tackle the large unmet need in hearing care, including opening 25+ sleek “Centers of the Future” by March 2024. These revamped spaces feature welcome hubs for client intake, innovation walls showcasing the latest technology, and upgraded private consultation rooms to optimize appointments. The goals are improving accessibility, transparency and comfort to reduce hearing aid stigma. As part of a wide ranging discussion, Mengerink emphasizes that the increase in insurance coverage and advancements in hearing care technology will persist in driving the industry's growth. He compares the potential for hearing care to attain mainstream status akin to routine dental and vision care. HearUSA is strategically leveraging contracts within the expanding managed care sector to make a broader impact on people's lives affordably. Despite existing challenges, Mengerink remains hopeful due to the positive outlook of enhancing the visibility of hearing healthcare and meeting the rising demand. Be sure to subscribe to our channel for the latest episodes each week and follow This Week in Hearing on LinkedIn and Twitter. - https://twitter.com/WeekinHearing - https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-week-in-hearing - https://hearinghealthmatters.org/thisweek/