Frequently Asked Questions

How can I recognize hearing problems?

Most of the time hearing problems begin gradually without discomfort or pain. What’s more, family members often learn to adapt to someone’s hearing loss without even realizing they are doing it. Here are some questions to ask yourself to determine whether you have hearing loss.

1. Do I / they often ask people to repeat themselves?
2. Do I / they have trouble following conversations with more than two people?
3. Do I / they have difficulty hearing what is said unless facing the speaker?
4. Do I / they struggle to hear in crowded places like restaurants, malls and meeting rooms?
5. Do I / they have a hard time hearing women or children?
6. Do I / they prefer the TV or radio volume louder than others?
7. Do I / they experience ringing or buzzing in my ears?
8. Does it sound like other people are mumbling or slurring their words?

If you answered yes to several of these questions, chances are you suffer from hearing loss. 

If I think I have a hearing problem, what do I do?

You should make an appointment with a hearing professional like an audiologist, hearing aid specialist or ENT for an evaluation, consultation and hearing test. Many hearing care professionals offer this evaluation at no charge.

What are the most common causes of hearing loss?

There are several causes. The main ones include excessive noise, genetics, birth defects, infections of the head or ear, aging, and reaction to drugs or cancer treatment. Each type of hearing loss has different causes.

Doesn’t hearing loss only affect old people?

Hearing loss can occur at any time, at any age. In fact, most people with hearing loss (65%) are younger than age 65! There are 6 million people in the U.S. ages 18-44 with hearing loss, and around 1.5 million are school age.

Are there different types of hearing loss?

There are three types of hearing loss including: sensorineural hearing loss, conductive hearing loss and mixed hearing loss. Most people lose at least some degree of their hearing as they age, and by the time they reach age 65 and older, one in three people has some type of hearing impairment.

If I think I have a hearing problem, what do I do?

You should make an appointment with a hearing professional like an audiologist, hearing aid specialist or ENT for an evaluation, consultation, and hearing test. Many hearing care professionals offer this evaluation at no charge.

How do hearing aids work?

At their most basic, hearing aids are microphones that convert sound into electrical signals. An amplifier increases the strength of the signal, then a receiver converts it back to sound and channels it into the ear canal through a small tube or earmold. A battery is necessary to power the hearing aid and to enable amplification.

Are there hearing aids for single-sided hearing loss?

Yes, hearing aids are available for those with single-sided hearing loss. The Starkey CROS System delivers solutions for:
– Those who are unable to hear in one ear and have normal hearing in the other ear (CROS)
– Those with little to no hearing in one of their ears, and a hearing loss in their better ear (BiCROS)

Will Hearing Aids be covered by Medicare?

Medicare does not typically cover routine hearing evaluation or hearing aids. Although in some cases, exams ordered by a physician and conducted by a licensed audiologist may be covered by Medicare Part B. Medicare

Advantage Plans may have hearing aid coverage.

Check with your doctor or hearing professional about whether Medicare covers a diagnostic exam. Search your state for Medicare coverage of hearing aids and hearing exams.

Is there an adjustment period to wearing hearing aids?

Yes. Most people need an adjustment period of up to four months before becoming acclimated to — and receiving the full benefit of — wearing their hearing aids. However, you should expect to notice obvious benefits during this trial period. Remember, your hearing professional is there to help. Do not be afraid to call or visit to discuss your concerns.

1. Be realistic.
Remember that your hearing loss has been gradual; over the years you have lost the ability to hear certain sounds in the speech spectrum and normal sounds of the environment, such as traffic and wind noise, the hum of machinery and other background noises.

2. Practice.
When you begin to wear hearing aids, these sounds will be restored but your brain will need practice and reeducation in order to selectively focus on and filter sounds. Some sounds may even startle you at first. Know that your brain will acclimate to these sounds again over time.

3. Be patient.
It takes time to adapt to hearing aids. Wear them as much as possible at first to become more skilled at recognizing sound direction and to learn which hearing aid settings work best for you in different situations.

4. Rest.
The adjustment period may be tiresome. It’s a lot like retraining a muscle that hasn’t been used in a while. But the benefits will be worth it after you’ve made the adjustment.

Patient Reviews

Read a Few of Our Google Reviews

4.5 out of 5 Stars based on 295 Reviews on Google.

Read what some of our patients have to say about our staff and our office!

So far working with Christopher the Audiologist in Bedford has been a very good experience, he was very helpful and kind, much better than our meeting with the Audiologist in Middleburgh Hts named Alex who only cared about making money for himself!!

Reviewer Profile Photo Bonnie Spiro, on Google

It was a great experience. He was very knowledgeable. Explained everything to me. Looking forward to the hearing aid.

Reviewer Profile Photo Stephen Rusicka, on Google

Christopher Whitten is efficient and professional he was patient with my elderly mother when showing her how to put on and take care of her new hearing aids.

Reviewer Profile Photo Felicia Mccallum, on Google

Took our mom here thinking her hearing aids no longer worked. Christopher cleaned them and they worked very well. He did some diagnostics and explained everything. He was personable, knowledgeable, and we ordered rechargeable hearing aids for mom which he recommended at no extra cost (insurance covered). The whole experience...

Reviewer Profile Photo Beverly Vidra, on Google

Vanessa has been working with me and has shown patience in trying to get the correct brand, the correct fit and the proper settings.

Reviewer Profile Photo The Mikeman Ohio, on Google

It is a very positive atmosphere. I appreciate the help the doctor gave me. He made sure I understood all aspects of my hearing aids. Doctor Frank "Pete" Fox was patience, kind and very knowledgeable.

Reviewer Profile Photo Kelly Schaar, on Google

Vanessa is wonderful.... Helped me pick the proper hearing aids and made sure they were comfortable. My hearing is so much better and I'm a lot happier.

Reviewer Profile Photo James Novak, on Google

Ì recently went to Reserve Hearing Center for my one month check to see how I was doing with my Hearing aides. Dr Vanessa ask about my experiences and actually was able to make some adjustments to make the experience even better. This place is great!!!.

Reviewer Profile Photo Rick Dohy, on Google

Dr Whitten is spectacular, I needed a hearing exam done right away for school it was extremely last minute and he got me in right away. Great Doctor I would recommend a friend in a heartbeat!

Reviewer Profile Photo Heather McCue, on Google

I purchased custom Tunz headphones from Dr Whitten. These things are awesome! The service that was provided was top notch. I’m recommending him to anyone who needs hearing services.

Reviewer Profile Photo murphy, on Google

What a pleasant experience going to Reserve Hearing Center. Our need was promptly evaluated and the service was performed quickly and professionally. I would highly recommend this business for all your hearing related needs.

Reviewer Profile Photo Robert Schaefer, on Google

Patient for approximately three years. Always receive great service which meets my expectations. I'm giving a 4 star rating since it is extremely difficult to receive a call back, voice mail is often full. Recently having problem with one hearing aide not functioning, my original appointment which was schedule 30...

Reviewer Profile Photo Linda Alexander, on Google

Went in to pick up my Mom's new hearing aids & wound up getting MY ears checked. I got the thorough exam & I ordered a pair for myself. Chris, the owner, is great. So patient, kind & professional, I'm so glad I've found him & Reserve Hearing Center!!

Reviewer Profile Photo Laura Michaels, on Google

Had problem with being notified they had moved from old location. Had appointment and seemed to not have it on file. Drove long distance for appointment to learn didn't. Finally got hold of main office in Strongsville. Told to go to new location. They made special arrangements and I was...

Reviewer Profile Photo William Tucker, on Google

Reserve Hearing has been the best hearing Center that I've ever been to. The they accept my insurance, the cost is reasonable, they're very friendly and Chris the owner and his staff really care about your needs. I would highly recommend them.

Reviewer Profile Photo Mary C, on Google

They did a perfect job getting my new hearing aids. They listened to what i wanted and did a great job! The office is beautifil as well.

Reviewer Profile Photo Carole Nolan, on Google

The staff at Reserve Hearing are a phenomenal group. From being warmly greeted at the front desk to the service is exceptional. I highly recommend them for all hearing related matters. Samantha is "THE BEST". Thank you Christopher for always being available.

Reviewer Profile Photo Vel Scott, on Google

The audiologist was great. He really helped with my hearing aids. Helped me understand how things work with technology. (Thank God)

Reviewer Profile Photo Bridget McCabe-Dixon, on Google

My Mom recently passed away and I called to see if her (nearly new) hearing aids could be reprogrammed for a woman at church. The answer was yes, and when we appeared for our appointment, the staff was SO lovely. Not just helpful, but adept. The lady who received Mom's...

Reviewer Profile Photo Shari Allwood, on Google

Took my mother to Reserve Hearing Center in Mentor. The service was excellent! The provider was very thorough. Explained the test results in great detail, and gave us recommendations on what type of hearing aid would help with her type of loss. They worked with my mothers insurance, and allowed...

Reviewer Profile Photo murphy, on Google

I highly recommend the Mentor location. They accommodate my Father in law, even though he was not a regular customer. This was a a great blessing as at the time he was going through a difficult time. Thank you

Reviewer Profile Photo Herminio Carrasquillo, on Google

No waiting my hearing aids were finally taken care of they stay in my ears! I will recommend them very highly...thank you!

Reviewer Profile Photo Diann Crawford, on Google

I highly recommend Reserve Hearing Center! I went to the Stow office. It was easy to find, the staff was kind and very professional! Have recommend them to my friends!

Reviewer Profile Photo Lauraine VanOss, on Google

You all made our day!!! Everyone we met and worked with were attentive, kind and certainly knew their stuff. Being present to watch up close how much this all meant to my 92yr mom was incredible!! She walked in so frustrated with her ability to hear and left overjoyed and...

Reviewer Profile Photo MJ Lehman, on Google

Great experience! Staff is very helpful and friendly. I got my first pair of hearing aids 3 years ago and the experience was the same as this time. Chris the audiologist is very knowledgeable and always takes his time to make sure he explains everything. Spends a lot of time...

Reviewer Profile Photo Diane E Kingerski Scheutzow, on Google