Commonly Asked Questions About Hearing Loss

Audiologist addresses common concerns about hearing aids and hearing health

Mar. 31, 2026 at 4:08am

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Flagstaff Business News explores some of the most frequently asked questions about hearing loss and hearing aids, as answered by Dr. Jeff Lane, an audiologist at Trinity Hearing Center. The article covers topics like the relationship between age and hearing loss, when hearing aids are recommended, the benefits of bilateral hearing aids, and whether hearing aids can worsen hearing over time.

Why it matters

Hearing loss is a common issue that affects many adults, but there are still misconceptions and uncertainty around the causes, treatment, and impact of hearing loss. This article aims to provide clear, expert-backed information to help readers better understand hearing health and make informed decisions about managing their hearing.

The details

The article addresses several common questions about hearing loss, including whether a person's hearing loss is normal for their age, when hearing aids are recommended, the benefits of wearing two hearing aids instead of just one, and whether hearing aids can worsen a person's hearing over time. Dr. Lane explains that there is no 'average' degree of hearing loss for different age groups, and the recommendation for hearing aids depends on the specific type and severity of the loss, as well as the individual's communication needs and preferences. He also clarifies that hearing aids do not make hearing worse or become a 'crutch', and that wearing two hearing aids can provide advantages like improved sound localization and speech understanding in noise.

  • Hearing loss becomes more prevalent as people age, with one-third of adults 65 and older having hearing loss, and that number increasing to 50% at age 75.

The players

Jeff Lane, Au.D.

A doctor of audiology with a passion for improving the lives of others. Dr. Lane works at Trinity Hearing Center in Flagstaff, Arizona.

Trinity Hearing Center

A hearing healthcare provider located at 1330 N. Rim Dr., Suite B in Flagstaff, Arizona.

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What they’re saying

“No question is ever too silly to ask an audiologist. If you want to know, ask.”

— Jeff Lane, Au.D., Audiologist

The takeaway

This article provides valuable insights and expert guidance to help readers better understand the complexities of hearing loss and the role of hearing aids. By addressing common concerns and misconceptions, it empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their hearing health and seek appropriate treatment when needed.