Hearing AIDS: a review for the family physician.

Hearing impairment is a common disability which can often be minimized by the use of hearing aids. Various types of hearing aids have been developed which are appropriate for most hearing losses that are not medically or surgically treatable, and these devices have been variously applied. Potential benefits and limitations of amplification need to be considered for each patient. Changes in technology, assistive devices, and the development of the cochlear implant have improved the ability of the hearing impaired to compensate for their disability. The benefits of new technology should not overshadow the importance of simpler considerations such as how we can speak more effectively to those who have difficulty in hearing.