There are dozens of misconceptions about hearing aids: "They make you look old," "They cause ear infections," "They increase hearing loss," "I can't afford one". The misinformation impairs a person's quality of life by discouraging him or her from pursuing help. Technological advances have enable hearing aids to address a greater range of hearing losses, while making them smaller, better designed and easier to use than those of the past. More people than ever can benefit from a hearing aid, yet of the nearly 30 million people with a hearing impairment, only about 20 per cent choose to use one. In "Overcoming Hearing Aid Fears", audiologist John M. Burkey addresses common fears, concerns and misconceptions about hearing aids to help readers decide whether these devices will prove helpful. Using an informal, anecdotal style informed by years of clinical practice, Burkey provides practical information about hearing aid styles, options and costs. His expertise and experience in caring for more than 50,000 patients should assist people with hearing loss in addressing their own patients. Approximately ten per cent of Americans (and nearly one-third of people age 70 and older) have some degree of hearing loss that, if left untreated, causes frustration, isolation and depression. A hearing aid is a simple tool to improve careers, relationships and self-esteem, and to provide independence and security. The book aims to help readers take that first step to a better life.