Fionnan Murray Hidden Hearing audiologist in Bray, is advising anyone who uses hearing aids to avail of the offer of free replacement batteries in the post.
Good hearing is essential for people during lockdown, so families should check that their relatives’ hearing aids are in good order at this challenging time, the local audiologist says. “TVs, radios and telephone calls from friends and family are a lifeline for many people right now. Even being able to chat over the garden wall to neighbours is an important social contact that relies on good hearing”.
Ireland’s hearing healthcare specialists, Hidden Hearing, is posting out free batteries for hearing aids to everyone, whether or not they are customers of the Irish company. There is also a customer telephone and email helpline in place.
Anyone needing hearing aid batteries, whether customers, nursing home or hospital residents, or the general public can contact Hidden Hearing on 1800 66 77 11, text ‘LISTEN’ to 50555, or email info@hiddenhearing.ie to have free replacement batteries posted free of charge.
When you text or email Hidden Hearing, please include in your text or email the following details: Name, Address, Phone Number, Battery Size and how many aids you wear.
People have enough stress right now, without having to worry about hearing aids batteries running down, says Dolores Madden, Marketing Director at Hidden Hearing Ireland. “Our audiologists are now supporting many customers’ in our clinics, online and via telephone enquiries, so issuing free replacement batteries for hearing aids to anyone in need makes sense”.
Clinics Remain Open
As an essential service, Hidden Hearing will remain open for all hearing healthcare needs by appointment only in the safest hearing healthcare clinics nationwide. The hearing specialists are aware that some of their vulnerable elderly clients will be distressed if their hearing worsens during this time and offer a safe and comfortable clinic environment and a signed travel letter for peace of mind when travelling to their appointment.
Hidden Hearing also has advice online and on its social media platforms to guide people experiencing difficulty with hearing aids or looking for general hearing healthcare information.
Hearing aid users are always reminded to wear their hearing aids, apart from bedtime. The hearing aid stimulates the brain’s ability to recognise and remember everyday sounds. But when it is not used consistently, hearing pathways in the brain are affected and hearing can worsen.
There is a practical trouble-shooting guide online for keeping hearing aids in good order. This includes advice on cleaning and brushing wax guards, receivers and microphone ports to remove wax and other dirt, if sound isn’t getting through clearly.
Cold weather and moisture can cause weakened sound or static in hearing aids too, so wearers are advised to wipe them down to make sure they aren’t collecting condensation. It is also important to ensure rechargeable hearing aids are regularly charged, ideally overnight.
Hidden Hearing clinics are open countrywide, operating by appointment only and are an essential service which will run even during this lockdown. Those enquiring about an urgent appointment now, or who wish to book a consultation, can call 1800 370 000 for general patient enquiries, and 1800 66 77 11 for anyone requesting free hearing aid batteries in the post.
Hidden Hearing is Ireland’s longest established exclusive hearing care experts, with almost 30 years’ experience. New safety protocols are in place at all Hidden Hearing clinics for the utmost patient care, so visitors can attend clinics in safety and confidence. www.hiddenhearing.ie
