Audiologists are primary health-care professionals who specialize in the identification, diagnosis, treatment and management of auditory and vestibular disorders in children and adults. They recognize the relationship between auditory pathologies and communication and are able to use advanced technology to treat many types of hearing impairment and help restore communication deficits. Prevention of auditory disorders is another goal of the audiologists and they work with patients to help ensure proper hearing health-care is practiced.

Hearing loss occurs to most people as they age. Hearing loss can be due to the aging process, exposure to loud noise, certain medications, infections, hear or ear trauma, congenital (birth or prenatal) or hereditary factors, diseases, as well as a number of other causes.

There are many styles of hearing aids. The degree of the hearing loss, power and options required, manual dexterity abilities, cost factors, and cosmetic concerns are some of the factors that will determine the style the patient will use.

Hearing aids work very well when fit and adjusted appropriately. They are designed to make words and the conversations easier to understand in all situations, without making sounds appear to be too loud.