Hearing Aids & Audiologists in Madison

Madison's Most Trusted Hearing Care Experts

Your journey to better hearing is like the Space Race in the 1960’s. It took more than a rocket to put a man on the moon. Apollo 11 required the knowledge and commitment of NASA scientists and engineers.

At Alabama Hearing Associates, we know that the right technology combined with the right audiologist makes all the difference!

Hearing loss creates a barrier to good communication, causing the brain to work overtime trying to understand speech. Our goal is to reconnect you to the people you need to hear, so that you can continue to meet your personal goals and live your best life.

Premium hearing aid technology and audiological best practices established by industry leaders are at the core of our treatment recommendations.

This methodical, evidence-based approach to hearing healthcare reunites you with friends, family, and colleagues so that you feel confident tackling each and every day.

With offices in Madison and Huntsville, you have access to Alabama’s most trusted Doctors of Audiology.

If you are ready to take the first step, call us today at (256) 489-0903.

Address

8075 Madison Blvd. Suite 108
Madison, AL 35758

Contact

Phone: (256) 489-0903

Fax: (256) 461-1228

Opening Hours

Monday: 8:30am – 4:30pm
Tuesday: 8:30am – 4:30pm
Wednesday: 8:30am – 4:30pm
Thursday: 8:30am – 4:30pm
Friday: 8:30am – 12:30pm

Hearing Aids at Alabama Hearing Associates

Alabama Hearing Associates has been the best choice for hearing healthcare since 2002. We are able to successfully treat hearing loss by going beyond the basic “beep-beep” hearing test to evaluate how patients hear speech in a real world environment. We then develop a hearing treatment plan that meets the needs of the ears and the brain.

Hearing loss is a healthcare issue linked to cognitive decline, fall risk, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and more, so our audiologists take critical steps to conduct a full evaluation and ensure our patients are provided hearing aids that offer optimum benefit.

And, our services don’t end once the hearing aids have arrived. At Alabama Hearing Associates in Madison, we verify they are working as prescribed by performing hearing measurements with the hearing aid in place. We also offer continuity of care throughout the year, so the hearing journey continues to be successful through regular preventative maintenance and device adjustment.

Partner with Alabama Hearing Associates on your journey to better hearing!

Alabama Hearing Associates in Madison provides which hearing aids?

Alabama Hearing Associates in Madison provides a variety of hearing aid products to meet the diverse needs of our patients. We focus on offering advanced prescription hearing aid technology, so our patients have the best outcomes possible. Reputable hearing aid brands we offer include Resound, Oticon, Phonak, Lyric, Starkey, Widex, Signia and Unitron. Styles available vary from those that are easy to insert and remove on a daily basis, to those that are placed for 2 months without the need to change batteries or be cleaned. Our process involves working with each individual to determine which prescription hearing aid will be best for their specific hearing loss, listening needs, preferences and lifestyle.

How do I choose a hearing aid?

Hearing aids are available in a variety of sizes, models and designs, and choosing one can feel overwhelming. Features vary from brand to brand, so selecting the right hearing aid for your specific needs is best done through consultation with an audiologist. At Alabama Hearing Associates, we offer the “Connect 365” Treatment Plan, which allows our highly educated hearing professionals to identify the best prescription hearing aid technology for your hearing loss, listening needs, preferences and lifestyle.

Consulting with an audiologist to determine the right hearing aid for your unique needs will help ensure that you are satisfied with the product you purchase, resulting in the best value for your money and an improved quality of life!

How much should I pay for a good hearing aid?

A pair of high quality, prescription hearing aids will range anywhere in price from $3,000 to $6,000, depending on the brand, style and features you desire. Insurance coverage also varies from person to person based on the policy. Working with an audiologist, you can identify the right hearing aid to fit your budget and your needs.

Alabama Hearing Associates will work with you to determine which technology is suitable for your level of hearing loss, as well as accommodate your personal preferences. Many users enjoy the exceptional clarity that quality hearing aids offer. Certain features, such as the ability to stream phone calls, music, and television directly to your hearing aids through a wireless connection, are often highly desirable. The human touch and expertise provided by our Doctors of Audiology at Alabama Hearing Associates ensures the best possible outcome.

Hearing Aids Services in Madison

Today’s hearing aid technology provides impressive sound quality and performance. Couple that with the expertise provided by the Alabama Hearing Associates Doctors of Audiology, and the result is an optimum outcome for each individual patient.

Our superior level of care incorporates your specific hearing loss, listening needs, and lifestyle into selecting your hearing aids. When your devices arrive, our comprehensive fitting and orientation services will ensure they are configured for your personal requirements. Follow-up care includes adjustments and maintenance for the continued quality and performance your life demands.

The hearing aid services provided by Alabama Hearing Associates in Madison follow best practices throughout the assessment and treatment process…resulting in satisfied patients!

How does an audiologist fit a hearing aid?

Once your new hearing device is available, you will undergo a comprehensive fitting and orientation. Our audiologists will ensure the hearing device fits comfortably in your ear and that you are receiving the correct amount of amplification through the real-ear measurement (REM) process. Incremental adjustments can be made, resulting in the hearing aid producing the appropriate sounds unique to your specific hearing needs.

Our audiologists will also make sure you understand how to care for your hearing aids. Proper cleaning will be demonstrated, as well as battery maintenance, if applicable. The audiologist can also demonstrate assistive technology, such as Bluetooth or other wireless accessories. This comprehensive fitting and orientation process allows you to get the most out of your new hearing devices.

Can I get my hearing aids reprogrammed?

Hearing aids can be reprogrammed, which is advantageous because often hearing loss is not static, but continues to change with time. You may notice a degradation in your hearing over the years, or it may be identified at a routine appointment. In either case, having your hearing aids reprogrammed will allow them to continue to perform optimally for your hearing needs, instead of purchasing brand new devices.

However, be forewarned: some of the lower cost brands, such as those purchased at Walmart, Sam’s Club and Costco, are “locked” and therefore cannot be reprogrammed. Before purchasing a hearing aid, it is best to ask if it is “locked” or “unlocked,” so you know if you can extend the life of the device by having it reprogrammed over time.

How long does it take to repair a hearing aid?

As with all electronic devices, sometimes an issue occurs and a repair is required. At Alabama Hearing Associates, we offer a “Continued Care & Coverage Plan” that allows you to have the support of a hearing expert throughout the year. If an issue arises, you can reach out to us for assessment. Often, our “speed of light” repair specialists can resolve the problem within 2 business days. In some cases, however, intensive repairs are required and the device may need to go back to the manufacturer. Resolution of these more significant issues may take 10-14 days.

How do you maintain a hearing aid?

Since hearing aids are placed directly in the ear, they are susceptible to accumulation of earwax. To prevent the small holes in the device from becoming clogged with earwax, regular cleaning is recommended. Using a hearing aid brush to wipe the hearing aid prior to going to bed can prevent wax from becoming trapped and causing issues. Regular replacement of the wax guards is also helpful.

In addition, your hearing aid may be susceptible to moisture from humidity, or even your own sweat. Opening the battery compartment and removing the batteries in the evening will allow the device to air out properly while you sleep.

Audiologists At Alabama Hearing Associates

Dr. Sheehy, Dr. Liles, and Dr. Fisher are all passionate about improving patients’ lives through better hearing. We recognize that good communication is essential to many aspects of well-being, including understanding conversations at family gatherings, clearly hearing your grandchildren speak, and being able to listen on a phone call with a friend.

Assisting a person with hearing loss involves more than just focusing on their ears. It requires problem-solving skills to help the whole person achieve happiness and quality of life through improved hearing. Counseling a patient’s family on the best communication strategies, or reviewing and implementing the latest research on ways to improve patient care are as important to us at Alabama Hearing as conducting hearing assessments and fitting hearing aids. It is this detailed level of care that makes Alabama Hearing audiologists the most trusted hearing experts in North Alabama!

What does an audiologist do?

Audiologists are highly educated health care professionals that work with patients of all ages, from newborns to seniors. They are able to identify and manage disorders related to hearing and balance. Most commonly known for selecting and fitting hearing aids for those with hearing loss, audiologists also assess and treat people with conditions such as tinnitus, hyperacusis, auditory processing disorder, balance issues and additional neural disorders. In addition, audiologists help prevent hearing loss by providing protective hearing devices to people who are routinely exposed to loud noises through their work environment.

Is an audiologist a real doctor?

Audiologists must earn a degree from an accredited university and be licensed to practice. Most audiologists have a doctor of audiology (AuD) degree and pursue continuing education, so they remain updated on the latest developments in hearing and balance care, as well as technologies available to manage hearing loss and other conditions.

Although audiologists are considered clinical doctors and are certified and licensed to identify, diagnose and treat issues such as hearing loss, tinnitus and balance disorders, they do not undergo full medical training. For that reason, they often make referrals to an Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) Specialist for underlying medical conditions that may be causing a hearing or balance issue and require surgical intervention.

Who needs an audiologist?

There are a number of reasons to see an audiologist. Anyone having difficulty following conversations or hearing the radio or TV should seek assistance from an audiologist. In addition, patients experiencing balance issues, excessive earwax, pain or discomfort in their ears, or ringing sensations should make an appointment with an audiologist for evaluation, diagnosis and treatment. Professional and personalized service by an audiologist can improve your quality of life and help you successfully re-engage in important activities with your friends and family.

Audiology Services in Madison

Hearing loss can occur at any age and may be triggered by biological or environmental factors. If you struggle to understand conversations in noisy environments such as restaurants, the audiology services provided by Alabama Hearing Associates in Madison can help. Our audiologists provide a comprehensive communication evaluation, assessing hearing from the ear to the brain. We offer personalized, compassionate care, along with a wide range of the latest in prescription hearing aid technology – devices with powerful sound quality and performance. Our extensive expertise provides real results and improved quality of life to our patients!

What can audiologists do for hearing loss?

Our audiologists are able to measure the severity of your hearing loss and then offer options for the best treatment plans available. Providing guidance through each step of the process is crucial in ensuring that our patients are able to achieve optimal hearing. Audiologists play an important role by verifying that your hearing aids fit properly and are programmed to achieve optimal hearing. We will teach you how to properly care for your new devices, including appropriate handling, cleaning, and battery replacement or recharging. Finally, our audiologists are experts with the technology currently available, so we can offer assistance in adjusting to new hearing aids by explaining how to use the features of your new devices.

What are two types of hearing tests?

Multiple diagnostic tests can be used by an audiologist to determine the severity and type of hearing loss a person is experiencing. Two of the most common hearing loss tests are the pure-tone test and the speech test.

For the pure-tone test, earphones are used and each ear is tested individually to determine the quietest tone that can be heard at a particular frequency. You will be asked to signal when you hear a sound and the audiologist will record the minimum volume you hear at each frequency.

For speech testing, the audiologist will record the faintest speech that can be distinguished and repeated correctly. The purpose of this test is to determine how well you hear and understand speech.

Can I remove my own earwax?

Removing your own earwax is not advised. People mistakenly think earwax is a sign of poor hygiene, but in reality, earwax provides numerous benefits. Earwax only becomes an issue if it is causing hearing loss, tinnitus or irritation. In this case, the earwax does need to be removed, and seeking assistance from an audiologist is highly recommended. Many of the home remedies currently available are not effective and can actually do more harm than good. For example, using a cotton swab may push the earwax further in the ear instead of effectively removing it. An audiologist is a trained health care provider capable of using the appropriate tools to safely and successfully remove excessive earwax.

Request a Callback

It is often the small things that hold us back from making a decision. That’s why we are on hand to help.

Simply complete the Callback form to request a friendly, no-obligation conversation with one of our helpful team members.

Don’t want to wait? Call us at: (256) 319-4327

Alabama’s Most Trusted Hearing Care Experts

A teen undergoing hearing assessment with Dr. Liles

Do You Struggle to Understand Speech in Noise?

Hearing loss can affect anyone, at any point in life, and can be triggered by a number of biological and environmental factors. A common warning sign for hearing loss is the inability to understand conversations in noisy social situations and restaurants.

If you struggle to understand speech in noise, we recommend scheduling a Functional Hearing Assessment. Unlike a basic hearing test, our Functional Hearing Assessment is a comprehensive communication evaluation, from ear to brain.

How it Works

The Latest Hearing Technology

Our community understands better than most what can be achieved when you combine technology with human intelligence and persistence. It is much the same with hearing technology.

The latest hearing aid technology is incredibly powerful, offering stellar sound quality and performance. Wireless connections allow phone calls, music and television to stream directly to your hearing aids for exceptional clarity.

But prescription hearing aids do not fit and program themselves! For best outcomes, you also need the human touch and expertise provided by our Doctors of Audiology.

Treatment Plans

A gentleman undergoing Cognivue Screening at Alabama Hearing Associates

Listening With Your Brain

At Alabama Hearing Associates, we don’t just treat your ears, we treat the whole person. While your ears collect sound, your brain is what interprets it into meaningful speech. In other words, you hear with your ears, but you listen with your brain.

Studies show a strong link between age-related hearing loss and accelerated cognitive decline. Long-term hearing deprivation can affect cognitive performance, especially in complex listening environments.

Learn More

What Our Patients Say

About 7 years ago, I began to realize I was saying ‘What?’ a lot when others spoke to me. I couldn’t catch every word on the TV, and I avoided calling my family who all live in other states.

– Carolyn Seeley

I realized that I had a hearing loss when I had to ask people to repeat themselves almost all the time. My husband also asked me one night if I could hear the bird outside our bedroom window.

– Diana Dowdy

My husband kept telling me I needed to do something. I kept asking him to repeat himself. But when I finally admitted I needed help was when I noticed I wasn’t hearing my customers.

– Janice Hudgens

I became concerned about my hearing when I started not hearing the doorbell ring when I was in the bedroom. My sons noticed and said, ‘Mom, you don’t hear anything!

– Jeannie Anderson

I started having hearing challenges in 2003. I was still working at that time and I was concerned how colleagues might respond to my situation. Dr. Susan was the first audiologist I saw.

– John (Jack) L. Smith

“I realized I had a hearing problem when I was in a meeting with two co-workers. I could not understand what they were saying. At home, I had trouble hearing my husband and the TV.

– Julie Brown