More than 31 million people in the United States alone suffer from hearing loss - that is one in every 10 people in the current population. Of those, only five to 10 percent can be treated medically, leaving the largest number in need of other solutions. It is for those people that veteran audiologist Susan Dalebout wrote this comprehensive guide. The book explains, with a simple overview of hearing anatomy and physiology, how we hear, and details hearing evaluation tests, the interpretation of those tests, and the conditions that most commonly cause hearing loss in adults. All things related to adult hearing loss are explained, as is a full menu of hearing rehabilitation services, devices, and technology. This text includes discussion of the importance of hearing in our lives, the psychological, social and emotional effects of untreated hearing loss, and the effects on family members and friends.

Also included is a chapter on prevention, describing the dangers of exposure to hazardous noise and certain drugs, and how to protect against damage to hearing. Unique for its breadth and depth, this text also offers detail on hearing aids, care and maintenance as well as factors to consider when purchasing an aid, cochlear implants, hearing-assistance technology, and future trends in hearing restoration.