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What is hearing?

Hearing is the ability to perceive sound by detecting vibrations through the ear. Our ability to hear and understand connects us with people. Hearing - a sense often taken for granted. Not here. At Bernafon, we are passionate about your hearing.

Without good hearing abilities, communication and social interactions are restricted and quality of life can suffer significantly. Predominantly, hearing loss is a natural part of growing old, just as most elderly people require reading glasses. In 9 out of 10 cases, hearing loss is age-related. 

What is hearing loss?

  • Reduced hearing

    Hearing loss is a natural consequence of getting older. It can start in our 30s or 40s and by the time we reach our 80s, more than half of us suffer from significant hearing loss with some social, psychological and physical problems.

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  • Degree of loss

    How do we measure hearing loss? The severity of a hearing loss depends on how loud a sound must be before an individual hears it. Hearing losses are categorized as mild, moderate, severe and profound.

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  • Types of hearing loss

    Sensorineural hearing loss occurs as a natural part of growing older; it accounts for about 90% of all hearing loss. It is commonly caused by damage to the inner ear (the cochlea) by exposure to loud sounds, head injuries, genetics, diseases, tumours and certain powerful medications. 

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    Conductive hearing loss is another type where a mechanical problem in the outer or middle ear interferes with the transmission of sound waves to the inner ear.

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When life begins to fade

Hearing loss can have a big impact, especially in situations where speech understanding is key and background noise is present. Recognizing the symptoms of hearing loss is important. Do you or does someone close to you:

Often ask people to repeat what they say?

Have trouble hearing in groups?

Think others mumble?

Fail to hear someone talking from behind?

Turn up the volume on the TV or car radio?

Dread going to noisy parties and restaurants?

3 steps to purchasing a hearing aid

  • Get your hearing tested regularly

    If you are concerned about your hearing, test it with a qualified hearing care professional


  • Visit a hearing center

    Contact a hearing care professional for an assessment of your needs and preferences


  • Find a suitable solution

    Try the different hearing aid performance categories and find the one that meets your needs