"Our clients must try this too." That was the enthusiastic reaction of hearing care professional François Nicolle when he recently attended the introduction of Starkey’s latest hearing aid: Omega AI24. The experiences have been very positive. Lori from the USA says: “I was already excited about Starkey hearing aids. But this is much, much better. Much closer to normal hearing than any other hearing aid I have experienced.”

The best hearing aid proves to be even better
The renowned manufacturer Starkey has been a global leader in AI-driven hearing aids for years. But thanks to the innovations in this device, speech intelligibility has been improved by almost another 30% compared to previous technology. The groundbreaking DNN 360 technology in Omega AI24 recognises whether the environment is quiet or noisy, whether there are multiple speakers present or the wearer is moving. The device then automatically adapts. voices therefore sound clear and natural – just as they should.

Behind the ear or in the ear
Starkey Omega AI24 is available in various models: discreetly worn behind the ear or even nearly invisible in the ear.

Thanks to our close relationship with Starkey — and the personal connection between hearing care professional François Nicolle and founder Bill Austin — we are among the first hearing care professionals in the Netherlands to offer the Omega AI24 hearing aid.

Schedule a demonstration
Experience the difference for yourself and schedule a demonstration in one of our shops in Alkmaar or Amsterdam.

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This leasing service allows you to choose from the latest hearing aids, such as the newly introduced Starkey Omega AI24, without a large investment. Instead of paying the full purchase price at once, you pay an attractive, fixed monthly fee over 36 months. You may also choose to make a down payment, which will reduce your monthly fee. In the Netherlands, operational hlease payments for hearing aids are tax-deductible as healthcare costs.

Once your lease term is over, you have the option to choose new hearing aids. This ensures you consistently benefit from the most up-to-date hearing technology!

Calculate your monthly fee (calculator in Dutch)

How does our leasing service work?

• You select a hearing aid with our audiologists.
• A lease agreement is executed for a term of 36 months.
• The monthly fee will be automatically debited from your account each month. The initial payment will also include any applicable down payment.
• While your lease is active, you receive comprehensive coverage—this includes warranty, insurance, maintenance, and all necessary repairs and service.
• When your lease ends, you have complete freedom to decide what comes next. You may choose new hearing aids and continue using the leasing service if you wish. If you do not enter into a new lease period, you can buy the old devices from us for 15% of the original purchase price. Alternatively, you can simply return the hearing aids when the lease ends  consider the matter closed.

Want more information?
We are happy to advise you in one of our shops in Alkmaar or Amsterdam.

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Starkey, the leading American hearing aid manufacturer, identified the potential benefits of integrating artificial intelligence into hearing aids at an early stage. In recent years, the company has introduced products including Livio AI, Evolv AI, Genesis AI, and Edge AI, all leveraging advanced AI technologies. The newest development in this area is the Omega AI24 device.

'AI adjusts itself according to your needs'
Starkey emphasizes the benefits of artificial intelligence for individuals with hearing loss, noting: "AI learns about the user and adapts accordingly. It recognises preferred locations and activities,  makes immediate adjustments as needed. In certain situations, hearing occurs automatically and without delay. AI technology boosts the voices you wish to focus on and reduces unwanted background noise.
AI is smart; for example, it translates 'live' into various languages. It has an intelligent automatic on/off function to save your battery. It ensures your safety if you fall by alerting the people who are important to you.”

‘My hearing aid can even translate Japanese!’
Economist and futurologist Peter van der Wel shares his experience with one of Starkey's AI devices: “Lately, you also hear negative stories about AI, but in this device it truly is an enrichment. It automatically adapts to the environment. Whether I am driving, attending a concert at Paradiso, or walking through the Twiske, everywhere I hear a clear and natural sound. And then the extras. My hearing aid even translates (for example) Japanese. Some time ago, I had to visit a Japanese business associate and I could simply hear her in Dutch through my hearing aid.”

Would you like to know more about AI hearing aids (such as the Omega AI24 from Starkey, one of the most advanced hearing aids at the moment)? Our experienced audiologists are happy to advise you in one of our shops in Amsterdam or Alkmaar.

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The 14 dementia risk factors are:

• Less education
• Physical inactivity
• Untreated vision loss
• Hearing loss
• Depression
• Social isolation
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Obesity (overweight)
• Diabetes
• Smoking
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Brain injury
• Air pollution

The fact that hearing loss is among the risk factors can be explained. People with hearing problems often avoid social contacts. As a result, they miss out on stimuli that keep our brains active.

'Have your hearing tested early’
David van Bodegom, a physician specialising in ageing and professor of Vitality, explained in an article in the Dutch newspaper AD: "There is clear evidence of a link between hearing loss and dementia. That’s why it’s important to have your hearing tested early and to use a hearing aid if needed. If you are hard of hearing, it is difficult to follow conversations, especially in larger groups. And that is precisely so important."

About the importance of social contacts, he says: "We are social creatures. It is very important to stay in touch with people, so that we hear new stories, receive new stimuli and gain new insights."

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Widex Allure offers a range of new and updated features. Using AI, the Allure learns your personal preferences and automatically adapts. This guarantees both clear speech and excellent sound quality, even when there is a lot of background noise. Unwanted background sounds are easily reduced, allowing important details to come through clearly.

Discreet and comfortable
The refined, slim design of the Widex Allure fits discreetly behind the ear and is therefore almost invisible to others. The lightweight design and ergonomic fit provide maximum comfort. Widex Allure is available in various colours.

Wireless connectivity
Widex Allure is fully prepared for the digital world. Listen to music and make phone calls directly through your hearing aid, without the hassle of extra devices. All settings are easy to control with intuitive Widex app on your smartphone.

Experience it firsthand
Widex Allure is recently launched and is now available at François Nicolle Hearing Aids. Book an appointment soon at one of our shops in Alkmaar or Amsterdam.

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In the Starkey Signature Series we offer a choice of three models:

Completely-in-the-Canal (CIC). Rechargeable: the world’s smallest custom-made rechargeable hearing aid. With a battery life of 38 hours. And waterproof (up to 1 metre deep).

Completely-in-the-Canal (CIC): the perfect model for adjusting sound settings to your personal preferences.

Invisible-in-the-Canal (IIC): no manufacturer makes hearing aids smaller than these – or easier to operate.

Starkey Signature offers the best of both worlds: the most natural sound, combined with the highest level of discretion. Enjoy exceptionally clear, true-to-life sound and advanced technology that fits comfortably and almost invisibly in the ear.

Experience it for yourself and make an appointment soon at one of our shops in Alkmaar or Amsterdam.

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XI stands for Integrated Xperience. This new Signia technology takes conversations to the next level. Every second, your hearing aid processes no less than 192,000 data points. This allows you to accurately follow multiple speakers at once. Whether you are on a busy street or in a crowded restaurant, you hear exactly what you need to hear.

Signa Silk Charge&GO IX: super small, rechargeable
Signia Silk Charge&Go IX is one of the world’s smallest in-the-ear devices. And it’s ‘instant fit’, meaning it’s ready to wear: click, adjust, and go. The Silk Charge&Go IX is one of the first super-small rechargeable hearing aids, eliminating the need for separate batteries.

Signia Pure Charge&Go IX: IX technology behind the ear 
'A powerful all-rounder.' That’s how Signia describes the rechargeable Pure Charge&Go IX. Discreetly worn behind the ear and suitable for mild to severe hearing loss. The superior IX technology ensures optimal speech understanding in conversations with multiple people. Background noise is minimised.

Signia Styletto IX: stylish, ultra-slim design
Styletto IX combines advanced IX technology with style. This behind-the-ear hearing aid provides an outstanding listening experience and a beautiful look. You can choose from seven striking color options. The rechargeable battery has a long lifespan and can be charged wirelessly with the Styletto Charger.

Try it out for yourself
Discover the sublime features of the new Signia IX hearing aids for yourself. Book an appointment soon at one of our shops in Alkmaar or Amsterdam.

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Hearing loss in later life often restricts physical and mental activities, leading to isolation in older adults. Reduced brain activity negatively impacts both physical and mental health. It raises the risk of devoloping dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Dr Al Shamsi refers in this context to several studies, such as those from the renowned Johns Hopkins Medicine (USA).

Hearing aids are an important aid for any age group in the case of hearing loss, but this is especially true for older people. The ENT specialist recommends buying a hearing aid without delay, as it improves quality of life and helps prevent social isolation.

Dr Ahmad Al Shamsi is an ENT specialist, otologist and cochlear implant surgeon in Abu Dhabi. He shared these insights in an interview with the Khaleej Times.

(Photo provided for illustrative purposes)

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"I am the ringing and the ringing is in me." That was the headline above an article by Sebastiaan Quekel in the Dutch newspaper AD. In a personal story, he describes his attempts to get the causes of tinnitus high on the political agenda. About his experiences as a tinnitus patient, he says: "In my case, I hear a very high-pitched whistle. Compare it to the sound you hear in a war film after a grenade has exploded."

'Like a tractor-trailer idling'
The article generated a large number of replies from AD-readers, including comments like: "I'm 59 and have lived with it for 35 years. I likely caught it at work. On bad days, you sometimes wish you were dead." Another reader wrote: "Tinnitus, I call it 'my sound of silence.' I developed it forty years ago during a special police training course where there were lots of shooting exercises. I also have a heart and lung condition. However, if given the choice, I would prefer to alleviate the persistent ringing in my ears." Another response: "It feels like there's a bomb in my head, like a tractor-trailer idling."

One reader expressed frustration at the lack of measures. "For years now, I’ve thought it’s crazy that the music is so loud you have to wear earplugs to protect your hearing.” In the Netherlands there is no legal noise limit for festivals, concerts, or pubs. So far, voluntary agreements have been made with the events sector and other companies. They are allowed to monitor the enforcement of safe sound levels themselves. So don’t take any risks. Using custom-made hearing protection can help you avoid many potential problems.

(Photo for illustration)

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With a hearing aid:

• You hear much better in almost all situations. You can once again enjoy everyday sounds you may have missed for years, such as birds singing or the rustling of the wind. This enriches your life.
• It becomes much easier to follow or participate in conversation, even in noisy environments like a restaurant.
• Communicating with others, such as family, children, and grandchildren, is much simpler.
• Following the news or TV programs takes far less effort.
• You can enjoy your favorite music again, and you can even stream it wirelessly to your hearing aid.
• Phone calls become much easier to understand.
• You can fully participate in social activities again – think of visits, gatherings, or parties. This can help reduce feelings of loneliness.
• Your self-confidence increases, and you become less dependent on others.
• You are more likely to have better mental and physical health. Social contacts keep the brain fit. There is a clear link between hearing loss and the risk of developing dementia.
• You experience reduced fatigue and find it easier to engage in daily conversations or activities

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The research was conducted by the University of Southern California. According to the
researchers, people with hearing loss who wore hearing aids had a 24% higher chance of living longer compared to a group of people with hearing loss who did not wear hearing aids. One possible explanation is the beneficial effect that a hearing aid has on both the physical and mental health of older people.

Hearing impairment frequently results in physical and social limitations in daily activities. Consequently, the brain is exposed to fewer stimuli and exhibits reduced activity. This may increase the risk of developing dementia. Accordingly, it is advisable to have your hearing evaluated on a regular basis. The use of hearing aids has been associated with improvements in quality of life in various areas, and may potentially contribute to increased longevity.

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Health insurance usually excludes coverage for self-inflicted harm, loss, or theft. Repairs outside the manufacturer's warranty are often only partly reimbursed, leading to significant costs.

Prevent expensive loss or damage
WERTGARANTIE All Risk Flex provides protection against substantial repair expenses or the cost of replacing a hearing aid. By paying a small monthly fee, you're covered for expenses not included in the manufacturer's warranty—such as electronic failures, accidental drops or impacts, water and moisture damage, misuse, implosions or explosions, fire, and lightning damage.

With the premium coverage, you are also insured for costs resulting from wear and tear, negligence, or accidents. Additionally, the coverage for loss and theft includes protection against burglary, ordinary theft, and robbery.

WERTGARANTIE All Risk Flex covers new and existing hearing aids immediately with no excess.

Interested in more details?
Our audiologists are happy to advise you. You can purchase this insurance at any of our shops in Alkmaar or Amsterdam.

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Author Wies Verbeek gathered 101 practical tips for a healthy old age in her book. For this, she interviewed eighty scientists. All the advice is mainly focused on prevention.

On staying mentally fit, she says in an interview with Dutch newspaper AD: “If you look at mentally fit people over eighty, you see that they are always open to new things. So stay curious, enterprising, and put in the effort. Challenge yourself, learn a new language or take a course. It is crucial for enjoying old age. You stay young by continuing to grow and change.”

’n Beetje leuk ouder worden (Enjoying Old Age, Dutch language}, Ambo/Anthos Publishers, price €22,99.

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Several major parties in the events sector and the Dutch government have made agreements to reduce hearing damage. The average sound level may reach 103 decibels (dB) over a fifteen minute period. There is quite a bit of discussion about this standard, as the WHO recommends a maximum of 100 dB. Evidence suggests that exposure to sounds exceeding 100 dB, even for as little as fifteen minutes (a level comparable to a car horn), may result in irreversible hearing damage.

Sound limits are not enforced
During his evening program, Dutch presenter Arjan Lubach called for enhanced enforcement and more rigorous regulations concerning noise standards. “If the music is too loud somewhere, there are no consequences at all. No fine, not even a warning." Previously, the Dutch government did not require festivals, nightclubs, or pubs to lower their volume. The State Secretary told the Dutch newspaper AD that passing laws is costly and enforcing rules against loud noise is challenging.

Hearing damage is often irreversible
At this time, it is advisable to take appropriate measures to protect your hearing. The potential risk of hearing damage should not be underestimated. The persistent ringing, buzzing, clicking or whistling in the ear is often permanent and irreversible. François Nicolle supplies custom-made hearing protectors. They reduce noise to safe levels. Listening to music or having a conversation remains perfectly possible.

Schedule an appointment to have these custom-made hearing protectors fitted at our shops in Amsterdam or Alkmaar.

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Nearly 3,000 seniors from various parts of the United States participated in the study. One third of the participants had normal hearing, while two thirds had mild, moderate, or severe hearing loss.

The group with hearing loss clearly achieved poorer results in various physical tests, such as walking speed, endurance, and balance. The more severe the hearing loss, the worse the scores. The research has been published in the journal JAMA Network Open.

Good hearing boosts fitness
Additional research indicates that good hearing contributes positively to the overall health and well-being of older adults. Consistently exerting effort to keep up with daily conversations can be quite demanding and requires significant energy. People with hearing difficulties frequently choose not to participate in social events, which can result in feelings of isolation. This leads to reduced physical activity and poorer overall health. In these situations, a hearing aid can help.

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Around 3,500, people aged 50 and over, took part in the research. Nearly 22% of them had a vitamin D deficiency. These people experienced notable hearing loss in both ears, especially when it came to low-frequency sounds like bass notes in music or deep male voices. The research was featured in the well-respected journal, Nutrition Research.

As a result, vitamin D seems to play a key role in ensuring healthy hearing function. To prevent a deficiency, make the most of a sunny day. Sunlight is an important source of vitamin D. The skin generates vitamin D when it is exposed to sunlight. Prolonged sunbathing is really not necessary. Spending time outdoors on a regular basis, ideally with your head uncovered and, when appropriate, with bare arms, is generally sufficient.

Older adults who rarely go outdoors might benefit from taking additional vitamin D. If you're unsure, it's best to ask your GP.

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Zelfhulpboek bij tinnitus

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