Advancements in hearing science

Age-related hearing loss is extremely common. That’s why hearing tests are recommended every three to five years for ages 18-49; every one to two years for ages 50+; and annually for those over age 60.

“Even if your hearing loss doesn’t seem significant, a regular hearing exam is still important,” explains Joe Baker, MA, CCC-A, audiologist and owner of Hearing Science in Westlake. “It establishes a baseline so you can effectively monitor your hearing loss, which can progress so slowly that people don’t realize how much they are affected.”

Hearing loss isn’t just an inconvenience. It’s been linked to cognitive decline and to increased risks of dementia, social isolation, depression, and falls.

When it comes time to be fitted for hearing aids, know that today’s devices are remarkably high-tech, with some models using artificial intelligence. Unlike national chain hearing centers, which are often required to sell only one manufacturer’s brand, Hearing Science is independent. That means it can offer a wide variety of manufacturers and models to ensure you get exactly what you need.

Let’s take a look at three of Joe’s most popular devices:

The Lyric

The Phonak Lyric is unique because it doesn’t just improve hearing—it changes how hearing aids are used. “The Lyric is placed deep inside the ear canal, near the eardrum, so it is 100% invisible from the outside. There are no external components at all,” Joe explains. “You wear it continuously, day and night, for months at a time, including when you sleep, shower, or exercise. There is no battery case and no swabs or cleaning routine. We insert it, then replace it every eight to twelve weeks.”

You don’t buy the Lryic outright. Instead, it offers an annual subscription with unlimited replacements. There’s even a 30-day free trial. One of its few downsides is that it isn’t Bluetooth-compatible. It’s just too small.

The Zeal

The Oticon Zeal is an in-the-ear, nearly invisible hearing aid that includes Bluetooth and streaming. It looks minimalist but performs like a premium device. “The Zeal uses second-generation AI trained on millions of sounds to separate speech from noise,” Joe says. “It adapts your environment, helping your brain process sound more naturally. This is what makes conversations clearer, especially in noisy places like restaurants.”

The Zeal features a rechargeable battery for all-day use; Bluetooth LE Audio for phone calls, music, and TV; Auracast support for public audio in places like airports and theaters; and app-based controls for adjustments. 

Phonak Audéo Infinio Sphere

Phonak’s Audéo Sphere Infinio is one of the most technologically ambitious hearing aids on the market. “Most hearing aids use one processor, but the Sphere uses two,” Joe says. “It features a traditional chip for sound and connectivity, plus a dedicated AI chip just for speech processing. That active AI chip is constantly analyzing sound and separating voices from noise in real time.”

Joe says the Sphere is getting rave reviews. “We have patients who’ve worn hearing aids for years and can’t believe how much better the Sphere is for sound quality and for reducing background noise. It’s not harsh and works well in all environments.”

When you’re ready to explore hearing aids further, start with a consultation at Hearing Science. You’ll be working with an experienced, certified audiologist—not a hearing aid salesperson.

“Our goal is always to find the right hearing aid for every patient based on their type of hearing loss, lifestyle and budget,” Joe concludes. “We don’t try to upsell you or push unnecessary accessories. We know that the right hearing aids can literally change your life.”

Hearing Science

815 Crocker Rd. Bldg. D, Suite 8, Westlake

440-438-3401

HearSci.com