How We Customize Hearing Aids for Your Lifestyle

 When it comes to hearing aids, one size definitely does not fit all. Your hearing loss is unique — and so is your daily routine. That’s why we take the time to customize your hearing technology to match your specific lifestyle, listening needs, and comfort preferences.

Here’s a closer look at how we make hearing aids truly personal.

Step 1: Understanding Your World

Before we ever program a device, we start by getting to know you.

• Do you attend social events often?

• Are you still working?

• Do you spend time outdoors?

• Do you stream calls or TV audio?

• Do you attend church or large gatherings?

Someone who enjoys quiet evenings at home will need different settings than someone who attends weekly family dinners or community events. Your hearing aids should support the environments you’re in most.

Step 2: Advanced Hearing Testing

We perform comprehensive diagnostic testing to measure:

• The type of hearing loss

• The degree of hearing loss

• Speech clarity ability

• How you hear in noise

These results guide us in selecting the right level of technology and power for your needs.

Step 3: Selecting the Right Style & Technology

Today’s hearing aids come in a variety of styles and technology levels from leading manufacturers like Oticon, ReSound, Phonak, and Starkey.

We help you choose based on:

• Cosmetic preference (discreet vs. easy-to-handle)

• Rechargeable vs. battery-powered

• Bluetooth connectivity needs

• Dexterity considerations

• Budget

If you love streaming phone calls or TV audio, we’ll prioritize Bluetooth connectivity. If simplicity is most important, we’ll focus on ease of use.

Step 4: Precision Programming & Real-Ear Verification

Programming is where true customization happens.

We use real-ear measurements to ensure your hearing aids are delivering the exact amplification your ears need — not just a “best guess.” This process measures how sound is performing in your ear canal in real time, allowing us to fine-tune settings for clarity and comfort.

The result? Clearer speech, less background noise frustration, and more natural sound quality.

Step 5: Fine-Tuning Based on Real Life

Your first fitting isn’t the finish line — it’s the starting point.

After you wear your hearing aids in everyday situations, we make adjustments based on your feedback. Maybe restaurant noise needs softening. Maybe TV clarity needs boosting. We refine your settings so your devices truly match your lifestyle.

Step 6: Ongoing Support & Care

Your hearing needs can change over time — and so can your lifestyle. That’s why ongoing care is so important.

We provide:

• Routine cleanings

• Performance checks

• Software updates

• Programming adjustments

• Counseling and education

Our goal isn’t just to fit hearing aids — it’s to help you stay connected to the people and moments that matter most.

The right hearing aid isn’t just about sound — it’s about confidence, comfort, and connection. By taking the time to customize your devices to your everyday life, we help ensure you’re not just hearing better… you’re living better.

If you’re ready to explore hearing aids tailored specifically to you, contact our office today to schedule an appointment. We’d love to help you find your perfect fit. ✨

📍 141 E Aurora Rd Ste 3, Northfield, OH
📞 330-468-4288
💻 Cardinalhearingcenter.com 

Why Your Hearing Aids Might Be Whistling (And How to Fix It)

If your hearing aids are making a high-pitched whistling sound, you’re not alone. This sound—called feedback—happens when amplified sound escapes your ear and gets picked up again by the hearing aid microphone. The good news? It’s usually an easy fix.

Common Causes of Hearing Aid Whistling

1. Poor Fit
If your hearing aid or earmold isn’t sitting properly in your ear, sound can leak out and cause feedback. This can happen if the device shifts when you talk, chew, or smile.

2. Earwax Buildup
Excess wax can block sound from traveling properly through the ear canal, causing it to bounce back into the microphone.

3. Loose or Damaged Tubing/Receivers
Over time, tubing can harden or crack, and receivers can weaken—both of which can lead to whistling.

4. Volume Set Too High
Turning the volume up too far can increase the chance of feedback.

5. Changes in Your Hearing
If your hearing has changed, your hearing aids may need reprogramming to match your current needs.

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How to Fix It

Make sure your hearing aids are inserted correctly.
Clean your devices regularly and check for wax buildup.
Lower the volume slightly to see if the sound stops.
Replace wax guards or filters if needed.
Schedule a quick check with our office for adjustments or repairs.

Modern hearing aids have built-in feedback management systems, but even the best technology needs proper fit and maintenance to work its best.

If your hearing aids are whistling, don’t ignore it. Stop by during our walk-in hours or give us a call—we’re happy to help you get back to clear, comfortable hearing!

📍 141 E Aurora Rd Ste 3, Northfield, OH
📞 330-468-4288
💻 Cardinalhearingcenter.com 

Bluetooth Hearing Aids: How They Connect to Your Phone & TV

Technology has transformed the way we experience sound — and today’s Bluetooth hearing aids make staying connected easier than ever. Whether you’re taking a phone call, streaming your favorite show, or listening to music, modern devices deliver sound directly to your ears with clarity and convenience. Bluetooth hearing aids use wireless technology to connect directly to smartphones, tablets, televisions, and other compatible electronics. Instead of holding your phone up to your ear or turning the TV volume up high, sound streams directly into your hearing aids. Many leading manufacturers including Oticon, ReSound, Phonak, Signia, and Starkey — offer Bluetooth-enabled models.

How Bluetooth Hearing Aids Connect to Your Phone

Most modern hearing aids are compatible with iPhones and select Android smartphones. After pairing your devices in your phone’s Bluetooth settings:

• Phone calls stream directly to both hearing aids.

• Music, podcasts, and videos play clearly in stereo.

• You can often adjust volume and programs through a manufacturer app.

Using a Hearing Aid App

Each manufacturer typically provides a free app that allows you to:

• Adjust volume

• Change listening programs

• Check battery levels

• Locate lost hearing aids

• Request remote adjustments from your provider

This gives you more control over your hearing experience without needing to visit the office.

How Bluetooth Hearing Aids Connect to Your TV

Option 1: TV Streamer Accessory

Many brands offer a small TV streaming device that connects to your television. The streamer wirelessly sends audio directly to your hearing aids.

Benefits:

• Crystal-clear sound

• No echo or room distortion

• Others can keep the TV at a comfortable volume

Option 2: Direct TV Compatibility

Some newer smart TVs and Bluetooth-compatible devices may connect directly, though a dedicated TV streamer often provides the most reliable connection.

Benefits of Bluetooth Hearing Aids

Clearer phone conversations

Better TV sound without blasting the volume

Hands-free calling

Personalized control via smartphone apps

Less background noise interference

At our office, we help patients choose devices that match their lifestyle and technology comfort level. If you’re curious about upgrading or learning more about Bluetooth features, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Better hearing and better connectivity starts here. 

📍 141 E Aurora Rd Ste 3, Northfield, OH
📞 330-468-4288
💻 Cardinalhearingcenter.com 

Hearing Protection for Hunters & Musicians

Whether you're in a duck blind at sunrise or on stage under bright lights, your hearing is one of your most important tools. Hunters and musicians may come from very different worlds — but they share one major risk: noise-induced hearing loss.

The good news? Today’s hearing protection options allow you to protect your hearing without missing the sounds that matter most.

Noise-induced hearing loss happens when loud sounds damage the tiny hair cells inside the inner ear. Once damaged, they don’t grow back.

For Hunters:

• Gunshots can reach 140–170 decibels

• Even a single unprotected shot can cause permanent damage

• Repeated exposure increases the risk of tinnitus (ringing in the ears)

For Musicians:

• Live performances often exceed 100–110 decibels

• Long rehearsals and gigs compound exposure

• Many musicians experience gradual hearing decline without realizing it

If you leave the range or stage with ringing in your ears, that’s a warning sign.

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Hearing Protection for Hunters

Hunters need protection that blocks harmful noise while still allowing awareness of their surroundings.

Best Options:

Electronic Shooting Protection

These devices:

• Suppress loud impulse sounds (like gunshots)

• Amplify softer environmental sounds

• Improve awareness of movement and conversation

Custom-Molded Earplugs

• Designed specifically for your ears

• More comfortable for extended wear

• Provide consistent protection

Many modern options allow you to hear rustling leaves or a hunting partner whisper — while instantly protecting against the blast of a firearm.

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Hearing Protection for Musicians

Traditional foam earplugs often distort music, making them impractical for performers. That’s why musicians need specialized solutions.

Musician’s Earplugs

• Lower volume evenly across frequencies

• Maintain sound clarity and balance

• Available in different filter strengths (9dB, 15dB, 25dB)

In-Ear Monitors (IEMs)

• Provide controlled sound directly into the ear

• Reduce need for loud stage monitors

• Help prevent overexposure during live performances

Custom musician plugs are especially popular because they preserve the richness and detail of music while protecting long-term hearing.

Why Custom Protection Makes a Difference

Over-the-counter options are helpful, but custom hearing protection offers:

• Better comfort

• Better seal

• More consistent decibel reduction

• Long-term durability

• Protection tailored to your lifestyle

For those who depend on their ears for sport or performance, it’s a worthwhile investment. Have questions, need assistance, or thinking about custom earplugs? Give our office a call today — we’re happy to help! 

📍 141 E Aurora Rd Ste 3, Northfield, OH
📞 330-468-4288
💻 Cardinalhearingcenter.com 

The Difference Between Hearing Loss and Auditory Processing Disorder

What Is Hearing Loss?

Hearing loss occurs when the ears are unable to detect sounds clearly or at normal volume levels. This can happen for several reasons, including aging, noise exposure, genetics, illness, or injury.

People with hearing loss may:

• Struggle to hear soft sounds

• Feel like others are mumbling

• Turn the TV or phone volume up higher than others prefer

• Miss parts of conversations, especially in noisy environments

In this case, the issue is how sound enters the ear. If the signal isn’t getting through clearly, the brain never receives a strong message to interpret.

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What Is Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)?

Auditory Processing Disorder is different. With APD, the ears may hear sounds just fine—but the brain has trouble making sense of them.

People with APD may:

• Hear sounds but struggle to understand speech

• Have difficulty following conversations in background noise

• Ask for frequent repetition

• Feel mentally exhausted after listening for long periods

• Struggle to follow multi-step directions

APD affects how the brain processes sound, not how the ear detects it.

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Why They Can Feel the Same

Both conditions often show up most clearly in noisy situations—restaurants, group conversations, meetings, or family gatherings. That’s why many people assume they have hearing loss when the real issue may be processing, or vice versa.

It’s also possible for someone to have both hearing loss and APD, which can make listening even more challenging.

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How Are They Diagnosed?

A comprehensive hearing evaluation helps determine what’s going on.

• Hearing loss is identified through standard hearing tests that measure how well the ears detect sound.

• Auditory processing concerns may be suspected when hearing tests look normal, yet the person continues to struggle with understanding speech. Additional, specialized testing may be recommended.

This is why a professional evaluation is so important—guessing can delay the right solution.

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Treatment and Support Options

The good news? Help is available for both conditions.

• Hearing loss is often treated with hearing aids or other assistive technology to make sounds clearer and more accessible.

• Auditory processing challenges may be managed with communication strategies, auditory training, environmental modifications, or assistive listening devices that reduce background noise.

The key is matching the solution to the correct diagnosis.

Understanding whether the issue is hearing loss, auditory processing, or a combination of both can be life-changing—and lead to clearer conversations, less frustration, and more confidence.

📍 141 E Aurora Rd Ste 3, Northfield, OH
📞 330-468-4288
💻 Cardinalhearingcenter.com 

Traveling With Hearing Aids: Tips for a Smooth and Stress-Free Trip

Traveling is all about new experiences, new places, and new memories and hearing well helps you enjoy every moment. Whether you’re heading out on a weekend getaway or an international adventure, a little preparation can make traveling with hearing aids easy and worry-free.

Pack Smart (and Carry On!)

Always pack your hearing aids, chargers, batteries, and accessories in your carry-on bag, never in checked luggage. Flights get delayed, bags get lost, and hearing aids are too important to risk. It’s also a great idea to bring:

• Extra batteries or a portable charger

• A drying kit or dehumidifier

• Your hearing aid case

Airport Security & Flying

Hearing aids are safe to wear through airport security, including metal detectors. You don’t need to remove them unless asked. During the flight, wearing your hearing aids can help you hear important announcements and communicate with flight attendants more easily.

Be Ready for Different Environments

From sandy beaches to humid cities and chilly mountain air, travel can expose hearing aids to conditions they don’t experience every day. Protect them by:

• Removing them before swimming or showering

• Storing them in a dry case overnight

• Wiping them down daily to remove moisture or debris

Have a Backup Plan

If something goes wrong while you’re away, know who to contact. Save your hearing care provider’s phone number and manufacturer support info in your phone. Some issues can even be troubleshot remotely.

Enjoy the Journey

Hearing aids shouldn’t hold you back from traveling—they’re there to help you enjoy it more. With a little planning, you can focus less on your devices and more on soaking in the sights, sounds, and moments that make travel unforgettable.

Safe travels and happy listening! ✈️🌍👂

📍 141 E Aurora Rd Ste 3, Northfield, OH
📞 330-468-4288
💻 Cardinalhearingcenter.com 

The Link Between Hearing and Balance

Hearing and balance are closely linked because both systems are located in the inner ear. The auditory system helps us hear, while the vestibular system controls balance and spatial awareness. When one is affected, the other often is too.

Hearing loss can reduce the brain’s ability to process environmental cues, leading to dizziness, unsteadiness, and an increased risk of falls—especially in older adults. Certain inner ear conditions can cause both hearing changes and balance problems at the same time.

Can Hearing Aids Help with Balance?

For many patients, treating hearing loss can actually improve balance and confidence. Hearing aids help restore access to environmental sounds, giving the brain more information to work with. This can improve spatial awareness, reduce listening fatigue, and help patients feel steadier—especially in busy or unfamiliar environments.

While hearing aids don’t treat balance disorders directly, they can play a meaningful role in overall stability and fall prevention.

When to Seek Help

You should consider a hearing and balance evaluation if you experience:

• Frequent dizziness or vertigo

• Trouble walking straight or feeling off-balance

• Hearing loss along with balance concerns

• Ringing in the ears paired with unsteadiness

Early evaluation is key. Addressing hearing or balance issues sooner can improve safety, confidence, and quality of life. If you’re experiencing hearing loss, dizziness, or balance issues, a comprehensive evaluation can help identify the cause and guide treatment. Better hearing can support better balance—and a safer, more confident life.

📍 141 E Aurora Rd Ste 3, Northfield, OH
📞 330-468-4288
💻 Cardinalhearingcenter.com 

What to Expect During a Hearing Test

If you’ve never had a hearing test—or it’s been a while—you might wonder what the process is really like. The good news? It’s simple, comfortable, and completely painless.

Your appointment usually begins with a conversation about your hearing concerns, medical history, and everyday listening challenges. This helps your provider understand how hearing may be affecting your daily life. Next, they’ll take a quick look inside your ears to check for things like wax buildup or irritation that could impact your results.

The hearing test itself takes place in a quiet booth where you’ll listen to a series of tones and words through headphones. You’ll respond whenever you hear a sound, even if it’s very soft. This part helps determine which pitches you hear well and which ones may be more difficult.

Once testing is complete, your provider will review the results with you, explain what they mean in clear, easy-to-understand terms, and discuss next steps if needed. Whether your hearing is within normal limits or could use support, a hearing test is an important step toward better communication and overall well-being.

If you’ve been unsure about your hearing, scheduling a test is a simple way to get answers—and peace of mind. We are here to help you, reach out to our clinic today! 

📍 141 E Aurora Rd Ste 3, Northfield, OH
📞 330-468-4288
💻 Cardinalhearingcenter.com 

How to Talk to a Loved One About Hearing Loss — With Care, Confidence, and Compassion

Noticing a loved one struggle with hearing can be tough. You may see them asking others to repeat themselves, turning the TV up louder, or withdrawing from conversations they once enjoyed. You want to help — but starting the conversation about hearing loss can feel uncomfortable or even intimidating.

The good news? When approached with empathy and understanding, this conversation can be life-changing.

Start With Concern, Not Correction

Hearing loss is personal. Many people don’t realize how much they’re missing, or they may feel embarrassed, frustrated, or afraid of what it means for their independence.

Instead of pointing out mistakes (“You never hear me anymore”), lead with care:

• “I’ve noticed you seem frustrated during conversations lately.”

• “I miss chatting with you, and I want to make sure we’re hearing each other clearly.”

Framing the conversation around connection — not blame — helps your loved one feel supported rather than criticized.

Choose the Right Moment

Timing matters. Avoid bringing it up during a heated moment or in front of others. Pick a quiet, relaxed time when you can talk one-on-one. A calm environment allows your loved one to feel safe, heard, and respected.

Listen as Much as You Talk

Your loved one may already know something isn’t right but hasn’t said it out loud. Give them space to share how they’re feeling. Hearing loss often comes with emotional weight — frustration, fatigue, even sadness.

Validating those feelings can make all the difference:

• “That sounds really exhausting.”

• “I can understand why that would be frustrating.”

Sometimes, feeling understood is the first step toward accepting help.

Emphasize What They Deserve

Hearing care isn’t just about ears — it’s about quality of life. Better hearing means:

• Easier conversations

• Stronger relationships

• More confidence in social settings

• Less mental strain and fatigue

Your loved one deserves to feel connected, engaged, and confident — not left out or overwhelmed.

Offer Support, Not Pressure

Rather than pushing solutions, offer to walk the journey with them:

• Attend an appointment together

• Help schedule a hearing evaluation

• Learn about treatment options side-by-side

Knowing they won’t have to face it alone can ease anxiety and hesitation.

Addressing hearing loss isn’t a sign of weakness — it’s a step toward living fully. Modern hearing solutions are more advanced, comfortable, and discreet than ever, and a simple evaluation can provide clarity and peace of mind.

Starting the conversation may feel hard, but it’s one of the most loving things you can do. With patience, compassion, and encouragement, you can help your loved one take a step toward the help they need — and the life they deserve. We are here to help you and your loved one's through the process, reach out today!

📍 141 E Aurora Rd Ste 3, Northfield, OH
📞 330-468-4288
💻 Cardinalhearingcenter.com 

Understanding Cochlear Implants: A Different Approach to Hearing

When hearing aids are no longer providing enough benefit, many people assume there are no other options. But for some individuals with significant hearing loss, cochlear implants can be a life-changing solution. Unlike hearing aids, cochlear implants don’t just make sounds louder — they work in a completely different way. A cochlear implant is a medical device designed for people with severe to profound hearing loss who receive limited benefit from traditional hearing aids.

It has two main parts:

• An external processor worn behind the ear that captures sound

• An internal implant that is surgically placed under the skin and in the inner ear

Together, these parts bypass damaged hair cells in the cochlea and send sound signals directly to the auditory nerve, allowing the brain to perceive sound.

How Is a Cochlear Implant Different From a Hearing Aid?

Hearing aids amplify sound, making it louder so damaged ears can try to process it. Cochlear implants, on the other hand, convert sound into electrical signals that stimulate the hearing nerve directly.

This is why cochlear implants are often recommended when:

• Speech remains unclear even with powerful hearing aids

• Words sound muffled or distorted

• Hearing loss continues to progress despite proper amplification

Who Might Be a Candidate?

Cochlear implants aren’t for everyone, but they may be an option for:

• Adults with moderate-to-profound sensorineural hearing loss

• Children with significant hearing loss affecting speech development

• Individuals who struggle to understand speech, even with well-fit hearing aids

Candidacy is determined through a comprehensive evaluation, including hearing tests, speech understanding scores, and medical imaging.

What Is the Process Like?

Getting a cochlear implant is a journey, not a quick fix.

1. Evaluation – Hearing tests and consultations to determine candidacy

2. Surgery – A routine outpatient procedure performed by an ENT surgeon

3. Activation – The implant is turned on a few weeks after surgery

4. Programming & Therapy – Multiple follow-up visits to fine-tune sound and help the brain adapt

At first, sounds may seem unfamiliar or mechanical. Over time, the brain learns how to interpret the new signals — a process called neuroplasticity.

Cochlear implants don’t restore natural hearing — but they can restore access to sound and communication for people who have exhausted traditional hearing aid options. If hearing aids no longer provide the clarity you need, a cochlear implant evaluation may be the next step in your hearing journey. 

📍 141 E Aurora Rd Ste 3, Northfield, OH
📞 330-468-4288
💻 Cardinalhearingcenter.com 

Earmolds for Hearing Aids: What They Are and Why They Matter

When people think about hearing aids, they often picture the tiny device that sits behind or inside the ear. But there’s another important piece that doesn’t get nearly enough attention: the earmold.

Earmolds play a big role in how comfortable your hearing aids feel and how well they work.

An earmold is the custom-made piece that fits inside your ear and connects to certain types of hearing aids. It’s created from an impression of your ear, so it’s designed specifically for you — not a one-size-fits-all solution.

The earmold helps guide sound from the hearing aid directly into your ear while keeping the device securely in place.

Why Are Earmolds Important?

A well-fit earmold can make a huge difference in your hearing experience. Here’s why they matter:

• Better sound quality – A good seal helps prevent sound from leaking out, which improves clarity and reduces feedback (that whistling sound).

• Comfort – Custom molds are shaped to your ear, making them more comfortable for all-day wear.

• Stability – Earmolds help keep hearing aids from slipping or falling out, especially for active wearers.

• Support for stronger hearing loss – People with moderate to severe hearing loss often need earmolds to deliver the right amount of amplification.

Types of Earmolds

Earmolds come in different shapes, sizes, and materials depending on your hearing needs and lifestyle:

• Soft silicone – Flexible and comfortable, often used for children or people with sensitive ears.

• Acrylic (hard) – Durable and easy to clean, commonly used for adults.

• Canal, half-shell, or full-shell styles – The shape chosen depends on comfort, retention, and hearing loss level.

Your hearing provider will help choose the best option based on your ears and your hearing goals.

Do All Hearing Aids Need Earmolds?

Not always. Some hearing aids use small domes instead of earmolds. However, earmolds are often recommended when:

• Hearing loss is more advanced

• Feedback is an issue

• Hearing aids don’t stay in place

• Better sound control is needed

When Should an Earmold Be Replaced?

Over time, earmolds can wear down, harden, or no longer fit properly. You may need a replacement if you notice:

• Discomfort or soreness

• Increased feedback

• A loose or poor fit

• Changes in hearing performance

Children typically need new earmolds more often as their ears grow, while adults may need replacements every few years.

The Bottom Line

Earmolds may be small, but they play a big role in your hearing success. A properly fit earmold can improve comfort, sound quality, and confidence with your hearing aids.

If your hearing aids don’t feel quite right — or you’re curious whether earmolds could help — talk with your hearing care provider. Sometimes, a small adjustment can make a big difference.

📍 141 E Aurora Rd Ste 3, Northfield, OH
📞 330-468-4288
💻 Cardinalhearingcenter.com 

How the Brain Learns Tinnitus (and How It Can Unlearn It)

We’ve explored how tinnitus can become a “stuck” cycle in the brain. The good news is that the same science that explains this cycle also offers hope: your brain is constantly adapting.

Your brain is not static. Every day, it reshapes itself based on what you repeatedly experience, focus on, and emotionally respond to. This ability, known as neuroplasticity, is how we learn new skills, form habits, and recover after injury

When you first notice a sound like tinnitus, your brain decides whether it matters. If that sound is connected to stress, fear, or frustration, your brain pays extra attention to it. The more this happens, the stronger that pathway becomes. Over time, the sound can seem louder or more constant—not because your hearing is getting worse, but because your brain has learned to focus on it.

This isn’t something you’re choosing to do. It’s simply how the brain learns through repetition and emotion.

Here’s the part most people don’t hear often enough: learned brain responses are not permanent.

Your brain is constantly changing based on what you experience and focus on. This ability, called neuroplasticity, is how we learn new habits and adjust over time. Tinnitus follows these same rules. Just as the brain learned to prioritize the sound, it can also learn to respond to it differently.

Relief comes through a process called habituation. This doesn’t mean “forcing yourself to ignore” tinnitus. Habituation happens naturally when the brain decides a sound is no longer important—like the hum of a refrigerator or the feeling of your clothes on your skin. You can still hear them, but your brain no longer brings them to the front of your attention.

You can’t force habituation, but you can guide it.

Neuromonics helps retrain the brain using structured, pleasant sound combined with emotional disengagement. Think of it as a workout for your brain. By giving your brain something calming and meaningful to focus on, new and quieter pathways can form.

Over time, the tinnitus sound becomes less noticeable, fades into the background, and no longer controls your attention.

📍 141 E Aurora Rd Ste 3, Northfield, OH
📞 330-468-4288
💻 Cardinalhearingcenter.com 

What Is Auracast and Why It’s a Big Deal for Hearing Technology

If you’ve ever struggled to hear clearly in noisy places like restaurants, airports, or during public announcements, you’re not alone. Even with advanced hearing aids, background noise and distance can make listening frustrating. That’s where Auracast comes in. Auracast is a new Bluetooth technology designed to change the way people experience sound in public and shared spaces — and it’s especially exciting for those with hearing loss It allows audio to be

Think of it like tuning into a private audio channel:

• No extra accessories

• No pairing with individual devices

• Clear sound delivered directly to your ears

Auracast is designed to improve accessibility and clarity in everyday listening situations, including:

• Public venues like airports, theaters, churches, and conference centers

• Televisions in waiting rooms, gyms, or at home

• Live events and presentations where distance makes hearing difficult

Because the sound is streamed directly to your hearing aids, background noise is reduced and speech becomes clearer — even in challenging environments.

Auracast vs. Traditional Bluetooth Streaming

Traditional Bluetooth connects one device to another. Auracast, on the other hand, allows one audio source to broadcast to many listeners at the same time.

That means:

• Multiple people can listen simultaneously

• No interruptions or connection limits

• Easier access in public spaces

Do My Hearing Aids Work With Auracast? 

Not all hearing aids support Auracast yet, but many newer models are being released with this capability built in. As the technology continues to roll out, more public spaces are expected to adopt Auracast-enabled systems.

If you’re considering new hearing technology, asking about Auracast compatibility is a smart move. If you’re curious whether Auracast is right for you or want to learn which hearing aids support it, our team is happy to help.

Call our office to learn more about Auracast and today’s latest hearing technology.

📍 141 E Aurora Rd Ste 3, Northfield, OH
📞 330-468-4288
💻 Cardinalhearingcenter.com 

 

Tinnitus Awareness Week: You’re Not Alone in the Ringing

If you’ve ever experienced ringing, buzzing, humming, or hissing in your ears, you’re not alone. During Tinnitus Awareness Week, we take time to raise awareness about a condition that affects millions of people worldwide—often silently.

Tinnitus isn’t a disease itself, but a symptom. For some, it’s a mild annoyance. For others, it can interfere with sleep, concentration, emotional well-being, and overall quality of life.

Tinnitus is the perception of sound when no external sound is present. It may come and go, or it may be constant. Sounds can vary and include:

• Ringing

• Buzzing

• Humming

• Whistling

• Clicking

It can affect one ear or both and may change in pitch or loudness over time.

Tinnitus is often linked to:

• Hearing loss (age-related or noise-induced)

• Exposure to loud sounds (concerts, machinery, firearms, headphones)

• Earwax buildup

• Stress and anxiety

• Certain medications

• Medical conditions affecting the ear or nervous system

Because tinnitus has many possible causes, identifying the underlying reason is key to managing it effectively.

For many people, tinnitus goes beyond being “just annoying.” It can:

• Disrupt sleep

• Make it difficult to focus

• Increase stress or anxiety

• Contribute to fatigue or irritability

The emotional impact of tinnitus is real—and acknowledging that is an important first step.

While tinnitus may not always be cured, it can be managed. A comprehensive hearing evaluation can help determine whether hearing loss or another issue is contributing to your symptoms.

Treatment options may include:

• Hearing aids with tinnitus relief features

• Sound therapy

• Counseling and education

• Lifestyle and stress-management strategies

Take Action This Tinnitus Awareness Week

If you or someone you love is experiencing ongoing ringing or noise in the ears, don’t ignore it. Tinnitus Awareness Week is a reminder that help is available—and you don’t have to live with it alone.

Scheduling a hearing evaluation is a simple step that can lead to answers, support, and relief.

Your hearing health matters—this week and every week. 💙

📍 141 E Aurora Rd Ste 3, Northfield, OH
📞 330-468-4288
💻 Cardinalhearingcenter.com 

Walk-In Clinic: Convenient Hearing Care When You Need It

Life gets busy, and we know scheduling appointments isn’t always easy. That’s why we’re excited to offer our Walk-In Clinic, designed to provide quick, convenient hearing care—no appointment required.

If you need assistance with everyday hearing aid maintenance and don’t require a visit with an Audiologist, our knowledgeable front desk team is here to help. Simply stop by during our designated walk-in hours, and we’ll take care of the rest.

What Services Are Offered?

Our walk-in clinic covers many common hearing aid needs, including:

• Hearing aid cleanings

• Changing domes

• Changing filters

• Receiver wire replacements

• Purchasing hearing aid supplies

• Pairing hearing aids to smartphones or other devices

These services help keep your hearing aids working properly so you can continue enjoying clear, comfortable hearing.

Cost Information

Walk-in services are included during your active service plan. After your service plan expires, walk-in visits are available for a $25 fee—an affordable way to keep your devices performing their best.

Walk-In Hours

We offer walk-in clinic hours throughout the week for your convenience:

• Monday: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM

• Thursday: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM

• Friday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM

No appointment is necessary—just stop in during these times.

Hearing Care Made Simple

Our goal is to make hearing care as accessible and stress-free as possible. Whether your hearing aids need a quick cleaning, a small adjustment, or help connecting to your smartphone, our walk-in clinic is here for you.

Have questions or need more information? Give us a call at 330-468-4288. We look forward to helping you hear your best—every day. ✨

📍 141 E Aurora Rd Ste 3, Northfield, OH
📞 330-468-4288
💻 Cardinalhearingcenter.com 

ReSound Vivia: The Next Generation in AI-Powered Hearing Aids

Hearing technology has taken a giant leap forward — and at the forefront sits the ReSound Vivia hearing aid. Launched in 2025, this device blends cutting-edge artificial intelligence, comfort-focused design, and modern connectivity to help users experience the world more vividly than ever before. The Vivia stands out as one of the most technologically advanced hearing aids available today. It brings true AI enhancements, powerful connectivity, and impressive battery life into a compact package. Whether you’re navigating busy social settings or streaming media directly from your phone, Vivia is built to make hearing easier and more intuitive.

What Users & Experts Like

- Clearer speech understanding thanks to AI-based processing

- Long battery life with quick-charge support

- Strong Bluetooth and streaming capabilities

- Sleek, discreet designs that are comfortable for everyday wear

Seamless Connectivity

Vivia doesn’t just improve hearing — it connects to the world around you. The hearing aids support Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) Audio and Auracast technology, which means:

• Wireless streaming from smartphones, TVs, and other Bluetooth devices

• Hands-free phone calls on compatible devices

• Potential access to audio broadcasts in public spaces (where Auracast is available)

• App-based control and personalization through ReSound’s Smart 3D app

Whether you’re watching TV or taking a call, Vivia aims to make digital audio a smooth part of your day. Interested in this model or need more information? Get in touch with our clinic today!

📍 141 E Aurora Rd Ste 3, Northfield, OH
📞 330-468-4288
💻 Cardinalhearingcenter.com