Your guide to hearing aids · Hawkesbury, Ontario
Hearing aids.
More connection.
Understand how hearing aids work, what makes them different, and how the right care can help you stay involved in the conversations that matter.
Clear information. Independent advice. Care in English & French.
01 · Understand the basics
What is a hearing aid?
A hearing aid is a small medical device that makes selected sounds more accessible. It is programmed for your hearing, rather than simply turning every sound up equally.
Pick up sound
Microphones capture voices and the sounds around you.
Shape the sound
A processor adjusts different pitches and sound levels according to your prescription.
Deliver it to your ear
A tiny speaker, called a receiver, sends the processed sound into your ear canal.
Small device. Remarkable teamwork.
Microphones pick up sound. The processor adjusts it to your prescription. The receiver delivers the sound into your ear canal. The battery powers the system. Components vary by model.
Does it stimulate the frequencies I need?
Yes. Unlike a simple sound amplifier, a prescription hearing aid is programmed using your audiogram. Your audiologist carefully adjusts amplification across frequencies and sound levels, giving more support where you need it while keeping louder sounds comfortable. This gives your brain better access to sound.
Will everything sound too loud?
Some sounds may feel different, unfamiliar or unnatural at first. Your audiologist may start with gentler amplification and increase it gradually as you adapt. Your brain needs time to become familiar with sounds again. Every treatment plan is personalized to improve hearing as comfortably and effectively as possible. If sounds remain uncomfortable, let us know so we can fine-tune the settings.
Can I adjust the volume myself?
Yes! Most hearing aids let you adjust the volume and change listening programs using buttons, an app or a remote control. These everyday changes do not rewrite your audiologist’s underlying prescription. Many devices return to their programmed starting settings after switching off and on or charging; some models and apps remember preferences. We will show you exactly how yours works.
02 · Make sense of your hearing test
Your hearing has a pattern.
Your fitting should follow it.
An audiogram shows the softest sounds you can detect at different pitches. Lower points on the chart mean a louder sound was needed. Difficulty with high pitches can make speech sound unclear, even when you hear someone’s voice.
Educational example only—not a patient result or a prediction. The aided points represent a hypothetical sound-field test with hearing aids; they are not a “corrected” unaided audiogram. Hearing aids do not remove the underlying hearing loss.
What the example means
With amplification, some softer sounds may become detectable. These points alone do not tell us how clearly someone understands speech, especially in noise. The benefit is assessed through fitting verification, appropriate speech testing and your everyday experience.
View the example values
| Frequency | Unaided example | Aided example |
|---|---|---|
| 250 Hz | 20 dB HL | 20 dB HL |
| 500 Hz | 25 dB HL | 20 dB HL |
| 1000 Hz | 35 dB HL | 25 dB HL |
| 2000 Hz | 50 dB HL | 25 dB HL |
| 4000 Hz | 60 dB HL | 30 dB HL |
| 8000 Hz | 65 dB HL | 35 dB HL |
How we check the fitting
Real-ear measurements use a tiny microphone tube in your ear to check the sound delivered by the hearing aid against prescription targets. We also review comfort and your listening goals. A manufacturer’s starting settings are only the starting point.
03 · Find a comfortable fit
Different shapes.
The same personal goal.
RIC/RITE is the most commonly chosen hearing-aid style. Each style has advantages and trade-offs; your audiologist will recommend the best option based on your hearing, ear health, anatomy and lifestyle.
RIC / RITE
Receiver in the canal
A versatile, discreet option for most adults. The speaker sits in the ear canal and connects to a small body behind the ear.
Pros: Broad fitting range; comfortable open-fit options; typically excellent rechargeable and connectivity choices.
Cons: The receiver and dome can collect wax or moisture; a visible wire and behind-ear component.
BTE
Higher-power optionBehind the ear
Often preferred for severe-to-profound hearing loss. May also suit patients with recurrent ear infections because the speaker stays outside the canal, after assessment of ear health.
Pros: Robust designs; high-gain options; easy-to-handle controls; some arrangements keep electronics out of the canal.
Cons: More noticeable behind the ear; tubing and earmold need cleaning. Active infection or drainage needs medical assessment; a BTE does not treat infection.
ITE
In the ear
A custom-built hearing aid that fills part or most of the outer ear. Often practical when ease of handling is a priority.
Pros: Easier to insert and operate than very small canal devices; larger models may offer rechargeability and wireless features.
Cons: More visible; can create a plugged-ear sensation; available power and features vary by model.
ITC
In the canal
Fits partly in the ear canal for a more discreet appearance than a full-size ITE.
Pros: Less visible; tailored to the ear; can suit many mild-to-moderately-severe losses depending on the device.
Cons: Smaller battery and controls; wax/moisture exposure; connectivity and power may be limited.
CIC
Completely in the canal
A very small custom aid sitting deep in the ear canal, usually with a small removal filament.
Pros: Very discreet; little or no hardware behind the ear; natural placement of the microphone.
Cons: Often fewer features and less battery capacity; more difficult to handle; not suitable for every ear or hearing loss.
What if one ear cannot benefit from a hearing aid?
CROS sends sound from the unaidable side to the better-hearing ear. BiCROS also amplifies sound for hearing loss in that better ear. These systems improve access to sound from the poorer side but do not restore normal two-ear hearing. If conventional amplification offers limited benefit, an implant assessment may also be appropriate.
04 · Compare what matters
Choose the support.
Then choose the device.
Start with the conversations you want to follow—not a long specification sheet. We recommend technology based on your hearing loss, speech understanding, listening needs, lifestyle and budget.
The most advanced support available within a range
Worth discussing when speech in restaurants, meetings and busy gatherings is a priority. Typically adds the manufacturer’s most sophisticated automatic speech and noise processing.
Explore this first if difficult conversations are your main concern.
A balance of features and investment
Can provide effective personalized amplification, with fewer or less advanced automatic features than the premium level.
Your audiologist explains which differences would matter for you.
Core amplification with simpler processing
Focuses on the essential hearing prescription. Support in complex listening environments may be more limited.
A budget-conscious option when it meets your assessed needs.
Technology levels are not standardized across brands. A higher price does not guarantee better speech understanding for every person, and no hearing aid eliminates all background noise.
Technology, in plain language
Directional microphones
Help favour sound from certain directions, often the person you are facing.
AI & deep neural networks
Some models use trained algorithms to distinguish speech patterns from noise. “AI” is not a uniform feature or a guarantee; capability varies by model and level.
Automatic adjustments
Change processing as your listening environment changes.
Rechargeable batteries & connectivity
Compare charging routines, compatible phones and streaming features. Bluetooth, hands-free calling and Auracast support vary by exact model and phone.
Accessories
A compatible remote microphone can bring a speaker’s voice closer; a TV streamer sends television audio to your hearing aids. Accessories may be purchased separately.
One independent clinic.
Several ways forward.
Proudly the only independent hearing centre in Hawkesbury and surrounding cities. Earsonic is locally managed and is not owned by or affiliated with any hearing-aid manufacturer. We compare brands and technologies to recommend a solution for your hearing, comfort and everyday life.
Compare automatic processing, speech-in-noise options and phone connectivity.
Explore Phonak at Earsonic ↗
Compare listening-environment processing, discreet styles and compatible accessories.
Explore Oticon at Earsonic ↗
Compare everyday usability, app controls and available technology levels.
Discuss Unitron with us ↗
Compare AI sound processing, custom styles and additional features on selected models.
Explore Starkey at Earsonic ↗
Compare conversation-focused processing, rechargeable styles and connectivity.
Discuss Signia with us ↗
Compare sound preferences, available styles and app-based personalization.
Discuss Widex with us ↗The notes below describe areas to compare, not a ranking. Features, availability and accessories depend on the specific model sold in Canada.
05 · Beyond the ears
Your ears receive sound.
Your brain gives it meaning.
Hearing aids improve access to sound. Your brain still does the work of recognizing speech, separating voices and following meaning. Consistent use and appropriate adjustments help you become familiar with sounds again.
Attention & listening effort
When words are difficult to hear, following a conversation can take more effort. Well-fitted hearing aids may reduce listening effort and fatigue; they do not treat an attention disorder.
Connection & participation
Easier access to conversation can support participation with family, friends and colleagues. Face-to-face communication, less background noise and supportive communication partners still help.
Memory & cognitive health
Hearing loss is associated with a higher risk of cognitive decline and dementia. An association is not proof that hearing loss alone causes dementia—or that hearing aids prevent it.
Hearing health, memory and balance
Three reasons hearing health matters beyond the audiogram. Evidence is evolving, and these studies describe associations and selected outcomes—not guarantees from hearing aids.
A connection worth understanding
UCL · The Lancet · 2024
The Lancet Commission identifies hearing loss as one of 14 potentially modifiable dementia risk factors. Looking after hearing is one part of a broader approach to lifelong brain health.
About the evidence
This population-level evidence does not predict your individual risk or prove that hearing aids prevent dementia.
Conversation is part of wellbeing
Johns Hopkins · Systematic review · 2020
A review of 14 studies found that hearing loss was often associated with loneliness and social isolation in older adults. Making conversation more accessible matters in everyday life.
About the evidence
Most studies were cross-sectional. The review did not establish cause and effect or test whether hearing aids reduce loneliness.
Hearing belongs in the balance conversation
Johns Hopkins & NIA · 2012
Among adults aged 40–69, a 25 dB hearing loss was associated with nearly three times the odds of reporting a fall in the previous year.
About the evidence
This observational study did not prove that hearing loss causes falls or that hearing aids prevent them. Tell your care team about falls or dizziness.
New sounds can feel unfamiliar at first. We guide your daily use and follow-up; adaptation varies from person to person. Hearing aids do not restore normal hearing or regenerate damaged sensory cells.
06 · Your next step
You don’t need to choose alone.
Bring your questions. We’ll turn the options into a clear recommendation.
Hearing test
Understand your hearing, speech understanding and communication goals.
Hearing-aid consultation
Review the recommended style, technology and practical details with your audiologist.
Fitting & follow-up
Personalized programming, verification, guidance and adjustments as you settle into daily use.
Professional care comes with the device.
At Earsonic, hearing-aid adjustments, follow-ups, software updates, domes, filters and annual hearing tests are included at no extra charge for our hearing-aid patients. These hearing-aid services are exclusive to devices purchased at Earsonic; we do not offer à-la-carte servicing for aids purchased elsewhere.
All clinical services are provided by registered clinical audiologists. Device repair, warranty and loss-and-damage terms depend on the selected product; we explain these before purchase.
Costs & coverage, explained simply
Usually $1,500–$3,000 per hearing aid
Our typical range is in Canadian dollars, after ADP funding for eligible Ontario residents. The brand, style and technology affect the price. Your personalized quote explains the full cost, included care and applicable funding before purchase.
Ontario ADP
Eligible Ontario residents may receive ADP funding of up to $500 per hearing aid. Eligibility and program rules apply; Quebec residence alone does not qualify for Ontario ADP.
4 months. Zero interest.
Spread your purchase over four months with our interest-free payment plan. We also help you understand applicable private insurance and other funding options.
A few questions patients often ask
Do I need one hearing aid or two?
When both ears have aidable hearing loss, two are often recommended. The decision depends on your assessment, including speech understanding in each ear.
Will I hear perfectly in a restaurant?
Hearing aids can help, but distance, noise, room acoustics and your hearing all matter. Appropriate technology, positioning and sometimes a remote microphone can improve access to speech.
Are channels like pixels on a screen?
Think of channels as separate adjustment zones across low- and high-pitched sounds. Like finer controls in an image editor, more zones can allow more detailed fine-tuning. However, more channels do not automatically make speech clearer: your hearing, the fitting and the sound-processing technology matter more than the number alone.
Can hearing aids help with tinnitus?
For some people who also have hearing loss, amplification can make tinnitus less noticeable. It is not a guaranteed treatment or cure. A tinnitus consultation can help identify suitable care.
Can I wear them with glasses?
Often, yes. We consider the space behind the ear, comfort and handling when selecting the style.
How do I care for them?
Follow the device instructions for cleaning, charging and moisture protection. We show you how to care for your devices and change the appropriate wax filters or domes.
What if I already have hearing aids?
We can discuss a hearing assessment and future options. We do not adjust, repair or service hearing aids purchased elsewhere.
Do I need a referral?
No. A phone call is all you need to book with us, and we are happy to help. If your family doctor or ENT requests a specific assessment or procedure, they can send us a referral so we can collaborate in your care.
Will a hearing aid cure my hearing loss?
No. Like glasses that help you see better, hearing aids help you hear better while you wear them. They improve access to sound and support listening, but do not repair damage caused by age, noise or other conditions, or restore completely normal hearing. Ongoing hearing care and adjustments help you make the most of them.
What if I do not like my hearing aids?
We schedule follow-ups to adjust and fine-tune your hearing aids for comfort and useful everyday hearing. If you remain dissatisfied, you may return them within our 60-day return period for a refund under our return policy. Applicable deductions can include services, customized parts and return fees depending on when you return them. We explain the terms before purchase.
Do I apply for the $500 ADP funding myself?
No—we handle the application paperwork with you. Earsonic is an Ontario ADP-authorized hearing-aid provider. Our registered audiologist can assess and diagnose hearing loss, prescribe and dispense your hearing aids, and complete the professional sections. We will ask you for the necessary eligibility information and signature. Eligible Ontario residents may receive up to $500 per hearing aid; program rules apply.
Start with your hearing.
We’ll guide the rest.
Book your consultation with Earsonic in Hawkesbury. A clear explanation, a personal recommendation and ongoing care.
Hawkesbury, ON K6A 3B2Get directions ↗
Monday–Friday · 9 am–5 pm
Entrance on Spence Avenue. Free parking at the Trillium Medical Centre.
info@earsonic.ca
Sources & further reading
Educational information, prepared November 2026. Your individual recommendation follows a clinical assessment.
- NIDCD · How hearing aids work
- American Academy of Audiology · Styles and fitting
- ASHA · Real-ear verification
- National Acoustic Laboratories · Hearing-aid technology
- Ontario · ADP hearing devices
- American Academy of Audiology · Listening fatigue
- Lin et al. 2011 · Hearing loss and dementia
- Lin & Ferrucci 2012 · Hearing loss and falls
- Lancet Commission 2024 · Dementia risk factors
- Shukla et al. 2020 · Hearing, loneliness and social isolation