PLYMOUTH, MN--(Marketwire - March 4, 2011) - Research conducted by the Better Hearing Institute (BHI) concludes that the top priority for individuals who require a hearing aid is that the device be invisible. Today, thanks to advanced and powerful micro-technology, that requirement can be met by devices like the new Mirage hearing aid from Miracle-Ear®. The Mirage device employs digital, fully programmable technology and is custom-fitted to the client's ear, making it 100% invisible when in use.
"Miracle-Ear has long been an industry leader in small hearing aids, but this latest 'completely in the canal' device is even smaller and more discreet," said Rebecca Younk, audiologist for Miracle-Ear. "We believe that the tiny Mirage device will help many of our clients overcome their reluctance to adopt a hearing aid."
The facts about hearing loss are a study in contradiction. According to the American Academy of Audiology and other expert sources, nearly 36 million people in the United States have a hearing loss. Sixty-five percent of those people are under age 65. But only 15 percent of hearing-impaired adults ages 20-69 use a hearing aid because a perceived "stigma" attached to these devices prevents many from seeking treatment or even diagnosis.
"A lot of emotion surrounds hearing loss," Younk said. "It can be difficult to convince a family member or friend to even have their hearing tested; so many people with hearing loss have not acknowledged that they have a problem. And, once they are tested, they continue to resist wearing a hearing aid because they feel it might make them look 'old' or infirm. Because it's invisible when worn, the Mirage device helps to overcome this resistance."
According to Younk, it is critical for individuals with a hearing loss to seek diagnosis and treatment because a hearing deficit can have serious lifestyle consequences. Hearing impaired adults may experience discrimination in the workplace, anger and frustration in their personal relationships, depression, feelings of paranoia and anxiety. In extreme cases, hearing impaired people may develop social phobias that further isolate them from normal social interaction.
The good news is that, according to the BHI, 90 percent of hearing aid users report an improvement in their quality of life after they begin to use a hearing aid. "This is an encouraging statistic," says Younk. "I hope that it inspires anyone who is experiencing a loss of hearing but has resisted using a hearing aid to learn more about our new 100% invisible Mirage device and the difference it can make in their life."
Advanced technology, customer service and convenience have made Miracle-Ear America's number one hearing aid brand, according to Younk. "We offer a 3-year limited warranty on most of our hearing aids, along with free aftercare for the lifetime of the device," Younk continued. "With more than 60 years in business, 1,200 locations nationwide and a 100% satisfaction guarantee, Miracle-Ear is a company that people can turn to with confidence for their hearing aid solutions."
All Miracle-Ear locations offer a complimentary, comprehensive hearing assessment that includes a complete hearing health history, ear canal inspection, hearing threshold test and speech discrimination test. If test results indicate a hearing loss, Miracle-Ear specialists tailor a hearing aid solution to the individual's lifestyle, age and activities, working with the client to determine which solution best meets his or her individual needs.
For more information on Miracle-Ear and the new, 100% invisible Mirage Hearing Aid, please visit www.miracle-ear.com.
About Miracle-Ear
A trusted resource for hearing solutions for over 60 years, Miracle-Ear uses state-of-the-art technology to remove the barriers of hearing loss. The Plymouth, Minn.-based company specializes in customizable hearing solutions that feature discreet, comfortable products designed to meet each individual's hearing loss needs. Free hearing tests are available at all of the company's 1,200 franchised locations across the U.S., many of which are in Sears stores. Franchise opportunities are available for those interested in running their own Miracle-Ear business with the support of a nationwide industry leader. For more information, visit www.miracle-ear.com.