HEARS Audiology

Tax Tips For People With Hearing Loss

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 01:15:25 GMT

It’s tax time again … and who doesn’t like to get a tax break? If you have hearing loss, you may qualify for special tax deductions for hearing-care-related expenses that can help reduce your overall tax burden – and keep more money in your pocket.

Enlisting the help of an accountant is always a good idea, but here’s some general information about the IRS tax deductions that everyone with hearing loss should be aware of.

How Much Can I Claim?

If you itemize deductions instead of using the standard deduction, you can claim uninsured medical costs, including those pertaining to hearing health care , as a tax-deductible expense.

However, your overall uninsured medical expenses must collectively total more than 7.5% of your adjusted gross income (AGI) for you to claim them as an itemized deduction . For example, if your AGI is $40,000, you may deduct the cost of any qualifying medical expenses over $3,000. Since hearing devices can cost thousands of dollars and often are not covered by insurance, it’s easy to see how medical expenses can add up fast.

What Expenses Can I Claim as a Deduction?

Uninsured hearing health costs you can claim as a medical expense include payments for:

· Hearing aids, batteries, repairs and maintenance

· Telephone equipment, including captioned phones, phones with special ringers and teleprinters, as well as their repair costs

· TVs and related accessories that provide captioning and amplify sound, as well as repair costs

· Improvements to your home for special burglar alarms, smoke detectors and doorbells

· Assistive devices such as TV streamers, remote mics, bed shakers, and sound machines for tinnitus relief

· Transportation to and from hearing health appointments

· Hearing Guide dog expenses, such as grooming, food costs and veterinary costs

Remember to keep the receipts for all related expenses—you’ll need them handy when it’s time to claim them on your taxes.

Are Hearing Device Donations Tax Deductible?

The answer is … Yes! If you itemize deductions on your tax return, you can claim a deduction for any hearing device donations.

Only donations made during the previous tax year are eligible for the tax benefit, and you may only deduct the fair market value. To determine the fair market value, use a five-year, straight-line depreciation formula:

Divide the original price of the devices by five to determine the annual depreciation.
Multiply the annual depreciation by the age of the devices.
Subtract that figure from the original price to determine the remaining value.

Help Your Hearing and Your Budget

Hearing better is priceless—it can enhance your communication skills, improve your relationships and allow you to rediscover your zest for life. If you or someone you love has been struggling to hear, don’t put off getting help for any reason—financial or otherwise. H.E.A.R.S. Audiology offers deep discounts on several premium tech hearing aid models, and we will work with you to find the best solution that fits within your budget. For those with no insurance coverage for hearing aids, our discounted pricing combined with the permitted tax deductions can make your hearing health care costs more manageable. Schedule a hearing evaluation today and begin your journey to better hearing.

Kathleen Page is a NYS Licensed and Board Certified audiologist with over 35 years experience working with clients of all ages. As an audiologist and practice owner of H.E.A.R.S. Audiology, Kathleen takes a personal interest in each patient’s journey to better hearing. She takes the time to holistically solve her patients’ hearing issues so they can hear their best in today’s noisy, busy world.

The 10 Sounds of Summer That Can Harm Your Hearing

Thu, 28 Jul 2022 20:45:00 GMT

Written By: Kathleen Page, NYS Licensed and Board Certified Audiologist

Life seems easier in summer. The warmer months give us time to kick back, relax and have fun. But when the temperature rises, so do the number of noisy activities that could damage your hearing. No worries … by knowing the risks and protecting your ears, you can stay safe and enjoy all the season has to offer.

Sun’s Out, Fun’s Out and Earplugs Are In

Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is more common than you’d think. A 2011 study estimated that up to 40 million adults (24%) have hearing test results that suggest hearing loss from exposure to loud noises. 1 NIHL is caused by a single exposure to a sound that is too loud or continuous exposure to loud sounds over time. Any sound at or above 85 decibels (dB) can cause hearing loss.

Here are some of the loud summertime activities that pose a threat to your family’s hearing:

1) Fireworks Displays

The snap, crackle and pop of fireworks sure look pretty, but they can do a number on your ears. Most fireworks clock in at 125 dB, which is in the danger zone for hearing damage. Use earplugs for adults and young children, earmuffs for babies and toddlers.

2) Air Shows

Don’t just wing it when you go to an air show—bring your hearing protection. The sound of a jet engine is between 120 and 140 dB, which is extremely harmful to your ears.

3) Outdoor Concerts

Because concert noise levels are frequently over 100 dB, you should always rock out with your earplugs in.

4) Parades

Who doesn’t love a parade? It turns out your child’s ears don’t. Noise from revving engines, sirens and marching bands can hurt small children’s hearing, but earmuffs are an excellent way to keep your kids safe.

5) Yard Work

Keeping your lawn in shape is practically a full-time job during the summer! Unfortunately, equipment like lawnmowers and hedge trimmers emit sounds between 80 and 105 dB, so wear your earplugs.

6) Convertibles

Taking a spin in a convertible is a treat for the senses—except for your hearing. The roaring engine and noise from other cars can contribute to tinnitus and hearing damage. You can’t use earplugs while driving, but you can reduce your noise exposure by rolling up the windows.

7) Target Shooting

Set your sights on protecting your hearing with earplugs and earmuffs while shooting this summer. Nearly all firearms deliver sounds above 140 dB, and small-caliber firearms are above 120 dB.

8) Baseball Games

America’s favorite summer pastime is nosier than ever, with fireworks, loud announcers, cheering fans, and rock music. Remember to score some earplugs before you set foot in the stadium.

9) Car Races

All that vroom-vrooming can be disastrous for your ears—races average between 90 and 110 dB. Keep your hearing on track by popping in some earplugs.

10) Motorcycles and Speedboats

Fancy yourself a bit of a James Bond as you fly over open water or whip along a twisty road? Every 007 needs earplugs—they offer protection against the excessively loud engine and wind noise these activities create.

Stay Safe This Summer With Custom Ear Protection

While disposable earplugs will do in a pinch, custom-molded earplugs are your best bet at preventing hearing loss. Custom-molded earplugs are designed to fit your unique ear canal shape while being much more comfortable than off-the-shelf options, making it more likely that you will wear them regularly. Keep your hearing out of harm’s way as you enjoy all your favorite summer activities—give us a call to schedule your consultation for custom ear protection today!

Separating Fact from Fiction: 6 Hearing Loss Myths Exposed

Tue, 10 May 2022 14:22:00 GMT

Written By: Kathleen Page, NYS Licensed and Board Certified Audiologist

Hearing loss is the third most common health problem among older adults in the U.S., after heart disease and arthritis. In honor of Better Hearing & Speech Month, let’s address a few of the many misconceptions around hearing loss.

Myth #1 Exposed: The most common cause of hearing loss is advancing age.

Fact: While advancing age is a factor, it’s not the most common cause of hearing loss. In fact, only 35% of people with hearing loss are older than age 64. The truth is, exposure to loud noise is the number one cause of hearing loss. Noise-induced hearing loss is permanent, affects all ages, and almost always is preventable!

What to Do: When sounds are louder than 85 decibels, wear hearing protection, turn down the volume, limit exposure time, or walk away. Annual hearing checks are a good practice. Call H.E.A.R.S. Audiology for a complimentary hearing test and information on hearing protection options.

Myth #2 Exposed: Ringing in the ears is a sign that someone is talking about you.

Fact: Ringing in the ears, or tinnitus , is a symptom of hearing loss. Tinnitus can be caused or exacerbated by noise exposure, certain medications or health conditions, excessive caffeine, fatigue and stress.

What to Do: Consult your physician about the health conditions and medications that might be causing your tinnitus. In many instances, hearing aids can provide relief from tinnitus. See an audiologist to determine if hearing loss is present and to discuss treatment options to reduce the negative effects of tinnitus.

Myth #3 Exposed: If I had a hearing loss, my family doctor would have told me.

Fact: Studies reported by the Better Hearing Institute show that only 14% of physicians routinely screen for hearing loss.

What to Do: Ask your physician for a hearing screening during your annual physical exam, or ask for a referral to an audiologist. You are at increased risk for hearing loss and/or tinnitus if you are over 55, work in high noise occupations, have a history of cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, diabetes, or obesity, or have received chemotherapy or other ototoxic medications.

Myth #4 Exposed: Hearing loss does not affect psychological well-being.

Fact: Individuals with untreated hearing loss often are excluded from conversations and experience feelings of disconnect, frustration, loneliness, isolation, and depression. The tinnitus that often accompanies hearing loss can be debilitating, causing loss of focus, anxiety, and distress. Furthermore, studies have shown a connection between untreated hearing loss and cognitive decline, dementia, and Alzheimer’s disease.

What to Do: If you suspect that you or a loved one has hearing loss, schedule an hearing evaluation. If a hearing impairment is identified, hearing aids can make all the difference in improving quality of life, slowing cognitive decline, and engaging the individual in meaningful communications.

Myth #5 Exposed: Wearing h earing aids will make me look “older.”

Fact: It’s not the hearing devices that make one look older; it’s the hearing difficulty itself – needing others to repeat themselves, mishearing what is said, and responding inappropriately – that gives the appearance of advancing age.

What to Do: Schedule a consultation with H.E.A.R.S. Audiology to discuss your options. Considerations will be given to your degree of hearing loss, lifestyle, budget, and cosmetic preferences. Many discreet options are available, with some hearing devices being virtually invisible.

Myth #6 Exposed: Hearing devices aren’t worth the expense.

Fact: According to research, 8 out of 10 people report their quality of life improved significantly with hearing devices. Digital technology in hearing devices advances every year, and many have built-in features that improve communication and enhance the listening experience, such as Bluetooth connectivity, rechargeability, tinnitus solutions, and remote access to hearing care.

What to Do: Consult with an audiologist to learn more about the variety of hearing devices available. Check with your health insurance carrier to find out if you have hearing aid benefits with your plan. Ask your audiologist about discounts or promotions. H.E.A.R.S. Audiology also offers an all-inclusive subscription plan and zero-interest financing.

Sources: Better Hearing Institute; American Academy of Audiology

Communication Tips for Individuals With Hearing Aids

Sun, 01 May 2022 14:25:00 GMT

Written By: Kathleen Page, NYS Licensed and Board Certified Audiologist

The effects of hearing loss are not the same for everyone. Many individuals with hearing loss find it difficult to understand speech and distinguish speech from background noise. For the hard-of-hearing person, effective communication is a challenge.

While hearing aids greatly improve the listening experience, some additional cues are helpful to understand speech better in difficult listening environments. Here are some tips to improve communication.

Tips for the hearing aid user — one of the most critical factors for effective communication is YOU!

Tips for the communication partner —how we speak can make communication easier or more difficult.

The Dying Can Hear You Right Up to the End, Study Says

Mon, 31 Aug 2020 10:38:00 GMT

Canadian researchers found hospice patients could perform mental tasks upon request while at 10% brain function.

Written By: Paul John Scott | Aug 29th 2020 – 8pm.

ROCHESTER, Minn. — As anyone who has ever sat through the final hours of life with a loved one can tell you, the talking feels helpful, even if the patient can’t tell you that.

Bedside vigils are a delicate chapter in the provision of palliative care, one in which offering music, reading aloud, holding hands or just talking to the unresponsive patient can feel like the care of sickness.

But is it? Do the dying hear us? Or are we really just talking to ourselves? That’s what a recent study by researchers from the University of British Columbia set out to learn.

The authors spent over three years trying to identify and then study terminally ill patients willing to make an extraordinary parting gift: the granting of permission for researchers to place a high-density EEG skull cap on their head during a precious final hour of their life, then play tones, provide instructions and monitor if the brain still processes language.

“This was a persistent question that came up among the families who were in the palliative care wards and hospices,” said Lawrence Ward, an experimental psychologist at the University of British Columbia who co-authored the study with psychologist Elizabeth Blundon.

Their paper, “Electrophysiological Evidence of Preserved Hearing at the End of Life,” was published last month in the journal Nature –Scientific Reports, and is the first of several findings to be published from the research. Ward first learned of this question from one of his co-authors, Dr. Romayne E. Gallagher, a palliative care physician at the University of British Columbia.

“The question always was ‘can my loved one hear me?,'” Ward said. “‘I’m sitting here telling them how much I love them, is anything getting through? Is it comforting them?’ The physicians and nurses often said ‘hopefully it is, but truthfully we don’t know.'”

“These people are basically in a coma,” he adds. “They have reached the 10% (brain function) level, which is just above death on the scale that hospices used. I was skeptical that anything would be going on in brain like that.”

Blundon identified 13 subjects willing to take part. They had to be lucid when they agreed to the experiment, neither agitated or suffering from dementia. Most were middle-aged or older cancer patients. Newly diagnosed patients were reluctant to participate. All were in hospice.

Who, you might ask, agrees to hear audiotones from a researcher while on their death bed?

Ward calls the research subjects “just amazing people,” adding that “they gave us a gift that was only theirs to give.”

“Most of these people had been ill for quite some time, and they had become used to the idea that they were dying, if that’s possible. They were also generally intellectually curious, and really into life, which is ironic, because they were dying.”

“They were also generally intellectually curious, and really into life, which is ironic, because they were dying.”

– Lawrence Ward, experimental psychologist

After research setbacks, Blundon ended up with just five Vancouver-area hospice patients able to provide data over a two-year period. A preliminary session had shown each participant an auditory exercise they would be asked to take part in when their condition diminished. All participants were eventually studied within the final 12 to 24 hours of their life, one just six hours before dying.

The study took an hour. After placing headphones on the unresponsive patient, Blundon told the subjects they were going to hear a series of five tones, and to silently count in their mind the series in which a tone had changed. They had previously given the same test to the patient upon enrollment, so the patient had already once understood and performed the task.

The psychologists chose the task because brain researchers have charted the brain system activity that corresponds to performing the tasks. They had already conducted a hearing screening in order to set hearing levels. All five, the authors concluded, showed evidence of understanding language while unresponsive.

“This is consistent with the trope,” they wrote, “that hearing is one of the last senses to lose function when a person is dying, and lends some credence to the advice that loved ones should keep talking to a dying relative as long as possible.”

Besides its effect on family visits in hospice, there are practice findings raised by the results. These include the advice that nurses not take hearing aids out of dying patients when they become unresponsive, a common practice.

“I would always recommend, given our results those of others, that if there is any doubt whatsoever, that you continue to act as if the person is aware and can hear you even though they can’t respond,” Ward says.

“Tell them you love them. Hold their hand. Keep letting them know that you and other people are there to support them and to love them,” he says. “If you truly want to love and support the person, then just keep loving and supporting them until they die. It can’t hurt, and it can only help.”

Source: https://www.duluthnewstribune.com/newsmd/science/6615083-The-dying-can-hear-you-right-up-to-the-end-study-says

We’ve Been Voted Best of L.I. – Six-time Winner!!

Sat, 20 Aug 2011 14:56:00 GMT

We did it again!! Thank you to everyone who’s voted for us, helping us be the Best of Long Island winners for 6 years! We are honored that we won Best of Long Island 5 years in a row from 2007 to 2011, and again in 2013. We have been nominated every year since then!

Nominate us for 2023 here. Thanks again for your business and support!

Trade-In Your Old Hearing Aids

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 14:50:00 GMT

Up to $500 Off a pair of Hearing Aids

Dual-Purpose CUSTOM-FITTED EAR PLUGS

Thu, 20 Aug 2009 14:55:00 GMT

Is there a swimmer in your household? Or perhaps you want to block out annoying
or distracting sounds? Whatever the case, you want to be sure to keep yours and your child’s ears healthy.

Many ears are sensitive to the bacteria that may be present in swimming water, and/or are prone to infection. Keep your ears dry and protect them from painful Swimmer’s Ear with our VERY COOL custom-fitted swim plugs. They float, have handles for easy removal, and can be stamped with your initials. They come in neon colors (solid or swirled effect) that kids love . . . so “cool” that they can’t wait to wear them!! Some may want more than one pair to match their swim suits.

Our swim plugs are not only effective in keeping dry ears dry, but they also do double-duty for blocking out distracting noises. Do you or your child have difficulty blocking out background noise while reading, studying, doing homework, or trying to sleep? Or is your child uncomfortable at loud places or social events? Our custom earplugs can make these situations more bearable, and they are comfortable for extended wear because they are soft and molded to the individual’s own ear.

Originally designed for use while surface swimming or showering to prevent moisture from entering the ear canal, the AQ is also a superb sound attenuator. Available in a variety of colors and color combinations, with a Noise Reduction Rating of 27 dB.

Comes with a 90-day guarantee on fit, and a full one year warranty for defects. Discounts available on 2 or more sets. Contact us for more information.