HearBest Home » HearBest Frequently Asked Questions
HearBest FAQsFrequently Asked Questions
Clarity. Confidence. Connection.™
Answers to the questions we hear most about hearing care, hearing aids, tinnitus, insurance and more. For clinic-specific details, visit one of our 14 clinic locations.
- Hearing Health
- Provider Specialties
- Initial Consultation & Evaluation
- Treatment & Technology
- Cognitive Health & Brain Function
- Tinnitus Treatment
- Insurance & Financial
- The HearBest Difference
- Ongoing Care & Support
- I Already Have Hearing Aids
- Special Situations
- Technology & Connectivity
- Lifestyle & Family Impact
Hearing Health
How do I know if I need a hearing test?
Common signs of hearing loss include asking people to repeat themselves, turning the TV up louder than others, struggling to follow conversation in restaurants, and ringing in your ears. Untreated hearing loss can also lead to fatigue and an increased risk of cognitive decline. Anyone over the age of 40 should have an annual hearing test as part of a healthy lifestyle.
What causes hearing loss?
Hearing loss is most commonly caused by aging, long-term exposure to loud noise, damage to the inner ear, genetics, certain medications, infections or other medical conditions. A diagnostic evaluation identifies the type and degree of hearing loss.
Can hearing loss affect balance?
Hearing and balance both rely on the inner ear, so some inner ear conditions cause dizziness, vertigo or imbalance. HearBest's Balance Clinic at Lafayette South offers VNG and VEMP testing, as well as canalith repositioning treatment.
When should I see an audiology expert?
See an audiology expert if you are struggling to hear conversations, notice ringing in your ears, feel dizzy, or notice any change in your hearing. If you notice issues with memory, focus or concentration, a hearing evaluation is warranted. If you have hearing devices and are still struggling, our providers can give a second opinion to ensure you are hearing your best.
Provider Specialties
What are your providers' qualifications?
Our providers include doctors of audiology and certified hearing instrument specialists who undergo extensive training in the HearBest Optimization Method™. Each provider is chosen for their expertise and commitment to exceptional patient care. Schedule a consultation or call (765) 771-7109 to meet our specialists.
What experience do your providers have with complex cases?
Our providers specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of hearing loss, tinnitus and balance disorders. Each provider has extensive experience managing complex hearing and tinnitus cases using advanced diagnostic tools and the HearBest Optimization Method™, and receives ongoing training to handle challenging situations effectively.
How do your providers stay current with advancing technology?
Our providers participate in regular professional development and receive ongoing training from industry experts in the latest hearing technologies and treatment methods. This commitment ensures you receive the most current and effective care available.
Do your providers have experience with pediatric hearing care?
Yes. Pediatric hearing care is performed at our IU Health Arnett office, where we perform diagnostics for all ages. Our clinics focus on treating the hearing needs of individuals age 13 and older. To schedule, call HearBest scheduling at (765) 771-7109.
What makes HearBest providers different from other hearing specialists?
Our providers are expertly trained by Dr. Judy Olson in her exclusive HearBest Optimization Method™, combining technical expertise with a deeply personal approach to care. We focus on long-term outcomes and building lasting relationships with our patients.
Initial Consultation & Evaluation
What happens during the first appointment?
Your initial consultation includes a comprehensive hearing evaluation and a detailed discussion of your lifestyle needs. We use advanced diagnostic technology to create a complete picture of your hearing health.
How long does an evaluation take?
A comprehensive evaluation typically takes about 60–90 minutes, allowing time for thorough testing and discussing your results. This ensures we understand your unique needs and can develop an effective treatment plan.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
Please bring your identification, insurance information, a list of current medications, and any previous hearing test results if available. Most importantly, we encourage you to bring a family member or friend to help gather information.
Do I need a referral from my doctor?
Referrals are welcome, but they're not required. You can schedule online or call (765) 771-7109. For appointments at our IU Health Arnett office, call HearBest scheduling at the same number.
What tests are performed during the evaluation?
Our comprehensive evaluation includes pure-tone audiometry, speech understanding tests, and tympanometry. We use state-of-the-art equipment and the HearBest Optimization Method™ for precise, accurate results.
Treatment & Technology
What types of hearing solutions do you offer?
We offer a full range of advanced hearing solutions, from discreet completely-in-canal devices to powerful behind-the-ear options. Each solution is precisely fitted using the HearBest Optimization Method™.
How do you determine which hearing aid is right for me?
We consider your hearing test results, lifestyle needs, cognitive health, and personal preferences to recommend the most appropriate solution. Our HearBest Optimization Method™ ensures precise fitting and programming.
What brands do you work with?
HearBest provides full service on all major brands, including the latest from Oticon, Phonak, Signia, Starkey, ReSound and Widex. Your provider will discuss the best recommendation to provide your desired outcome, regardless of manufacturer.
Do you offer invisible hearing aids?
Yes, we offer various discreet options, including completely-in-canal devices. During your consultation, we'll discuss which options best match your hearing needs and lifestyle preferences.
How often do hearing aids need to be replaced?
With proper care and maintenance, quality hearing aids typically last 5–7 years. Regular check-ups and adjustments help maximize their performance and longevity.
Cognitive Health & Brain Function
How does hearing loss affect brain health?
Untreated hearing loss makes the brain work harder to follow speech and can pull people away from conversations and social activities. Research has linked hearing loss to a higher risk of cognitive decline and dementia; in one well-known study, people with severe hearing loss were up to five times as likely to develop dementia. Learn more about hearing and brain health.
Can hearing aids improve memory?
Hearing aids aren't a memory treatment, but hearing clearly takes less effort, leaving more mental energy for understanding and remembering conversations. In the ACHIEVE study, hearing care slowed cognitive decline by nearly half over three years among older adults at higher risk. Our approach considers both your hearing and your cognitive health.
What's the connection between hearing loss and dementia?
Hearing loss is one of the largest modifiable risk factors for dementia identified by researchers. Treating hearing loss is an important part of caring for your overall health and staying engaged, though no treatment has been proven to prevent dementia.
How quickly should I address hearing loss to protect brain health?
Early intervention matters. Even mild hearing loss can affect how hard your brain works to follow conversations, so we recommend addressing hearing concerns as soon as they arise.
Tinnitus Treatment
What treatment options do you offer for tinnitus?
HearBest offers personalized tinnitus evaluations and treatment plans. While tinnitus often accompanies hearing loss, we treat many patients who only have tinnitus. Treating hearing loss often results in making the ringing less noticeable. Tinnitus treatment plans include tinnitus-specific programming and access to a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy program and sound therapies.
Can hearing aids help tinnitus?
Hearing aids stimulate the hearing nerve and the brain, which can decrease the perception of tinnitus. Some hearing devices also include sound therapy technologies which can be helpful when treating tinnitus.
Can tinnitus be cured?
While there's no single cure for tinnitus, our proven treatment methods can significantly reduce its impact on your life. Many patients (90%) report substantial relief through our comprehensive management approach.
What causes tinnitus?
Tinnitus is a symptom rather than a disease on its own. It can result from various factors, including hearing loss, noise exposure, medications, injury, or other medical conditions. Our thorough evaluation helps identify underlying causes and develop effective treatment strategies.
How do you measure tinnitus severity?
We use advanced diagnostic tools to measure tinnitus and its impact on your life. This precise assessment guides our treatment recommendations.
Does stress affect tinnitus?
Yes, stress can significantly affect how you perceive tinnitus. Our comprehensive treatment approach includes stress management strategies and lifestyle modifications.
Insurance & Financial
Do you accept my insurance?
Yes, we work with most major insurance providers. At your appointment, we'll review your coverage and clearly explain any benefits available to you, with no surprises. Call (765) 771-7109 to get started.
What payment options do you offer?
Your cost depends on the treatment plan your provider recommends. After your consultation and hearing evaluation, your provider builds a comprehensive plan around your hearing needs, your listening goals and your lifestyle, then reviews that plan with you so you can make an educated decision about your treatment. Your provider can also go over financing options during your visit.
Are hearing aids covered by insurance?
HearBest accepts most major insurance plans, and we will verify your specific hearing benefits during your visit so there are no surprises.
What's included in the treatment cost?
Our comprehensive treatment plans include professional fitting, follow-up care, warranties, all services, and ongoing support using the HearBest Optimization Method™.
The HearBest Difference
What makes HearBest different from other providers?
HearBest is audiologist-led, and every provider is trained in the HearBest Optimization Method™ by Dr. Judy Olson. Our satisfied patients have left more than 1,500 five-star reviews. HearBest is a five-time “Best of Wabash” Gold winner (2022–2026). We specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of hearing loss, tinnitus and balance disorders.
Why should I choose HearBest over online or big box retailers?
We specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of hearing loss, tinnitus and balance disorders. Our providers are experts in the care, precise fitting, and ongoing support that lead to the best outcomes.
What technology do you use for fitting hearing aids?
We use advanced verification tools and the HearBest Optimization Method™ to ensure precise fitting and programming for optimal performance.
How do you ensure quality care?
Our providers undergo continuous training, and we use advanced diagnostic tools and verification methods to ensure exceptional outcomes.
What kind of follow-up care do you provide?
We provide comprehensive follow-up care, including regular check-ups, adjustments, and ongoing support to ensure optimal results.
Ongoing Care & Support
How often do I need follow-up appointments?
Regular follow-up care keeps your hearing aids performing their best. We'll create a personalized care schedule based on your specific needs.
What happens if my hearing aids need repairs?
We provide comprehensive repair services and can often address issues during your visit. Many quick fixes are available through our walk-in hearing aid services, no appointment needed. For manufacturer repairs, we handle the entire process.
Do you offer remote support?
We believe in-person programming and adjustments lead to the best outcomes, so we don't offer remote programming.
How do I maintain my hearing aids?
We provide thorough instruction on daily care and maintenance. Regular professional cleaning and check-ups help ensure optimal performance.
What if my hearing changes over time?
Regular evaluations allow us to monitor changes and adjust your treatment plan accordingly. Our comprehensive care approach ensures continued success.
I Already Have Hearing Aids
I'm not happy with the care I'm getting from my current provider. What can I do?
The HearBest audiology experts are trained to optimize your results with your current devices. You can see us for a complimentary second opinion to see how we can help.
My current devices aren't working. Can you help?
You can walk into any HearBest location with your devices. Our staff is trained to clean and check devices and troubleshoot issues. They can often fix your devices in a matter of minutes, without an appointment.
My provider went out of business. Can you help me?
We are happy to look at your current devices and provide a comprehensive assessment of your hearing and your devices. In most cases, we can take over your care seamlessly and optimize your results with your current hearing aids.
Special Situations
Can you help with hearing protection?
Yes, we offer custom hearing protection solutions for various needs, from musicians to industrial workers.
Do you work with Veterans?
Absolutely, and it would be our honor. At HearBest, you're treated with the respect you deserve at each and every visit. No long waits and no delayed appointments, just unhurried, personal care and the best hearing technology, right here in your community. We're not currently contracted with the VA, so care is provided on a private-pay basis, and we think you'll find the difference is worth it.
Can you help with severe hearing loss?
Yes, we have extensive experience treating all degrees of hearing loss using advanced technology and specialized fitting techniques.
What about hearing in noisy environments?
Modern hearing technology, properly fitted using our HearBest Optimization Method™, can significantly improve hearing in challenging environments.
Do you offer solutions for single-sided deafness?
Yes, we provide specialized solutions for single-sided deafness and asymmetrical hearing loss.
Technology & Connectivity
Can hearing aids connect to my phone?
Yes, many modern hearing aids offer Bluetooth connectivity for streaming calls, music, and other audio directly to your hearing aids.
Are your hearing aids rechargeable?
Yes, we offer rechargeable options that provide all-day power without the need for battery changes.
Can I control my hearing aids with my smartphone?
Many of our hearing solutions offer smartphone control, allowing you to adjust settings discreetly.
Do you offer telehealth services?
We believe in-person care provides the best possible outcomes, so our care is provided in our clinics.
What about TV streaming?
Many hearing solutions can stream television audio directly to your hearing aids for improved clarity.
Lifestyle & Family Impact
How do I help a family member with hearing loss?
We encourage family involvement in the hearing care process. Schedule a consultation together to discuss options and support strategies.
Will hearing aids help me at work?
Yes, properly fitted hearing aids can significantly improve workplace communication and performance.
How do hearing aids affect exercise and sports?
We offer solutions designed for active lifestyles, including moisture-resistant and secure-fitting options.
Can I wear hearing aids while swimming?
While most hearing aids aren't designed for swimming, we offer specialized solutions for water activities.
How do hearing aids impact social activities?
Properly fitted hearing aids can significantly improve social engagement and confidence in various settings.
Still have a question?
Our team is happy to help, by phone or at a complimentary consultation.