Waits

points out that many digital hearing aids, such as

DigiFocus II, are small, sleek, `computers in the ear'

that enable hard-of-hearing individuals to hear sound

more clearly and distinctly in a wide range of

surroundings.

"The

clean, crisp sound that digital instruments produce can

make a significant difference in the user's ability to

participate fully in work, family and social

situations," said Waits.

Because

hearing difficulties can occur at any age, Waits

recommends periodic hearing evaluations, which are simple

and painless, to access the degree of hearing loss. The

signs of hearing loss include:

Asking people to repeat

themselves frequently.

Missing key words in a

conversation when talking in noisy surroundings.

Difficulty hearing when

using the telephone.

Turning up the volume on

the TV or radio often.

Feeling that people mumble

when speaking.

Being frequently asked by

family and friends to take a hearing test.

As part of

his commitment to helping to eliminate negative

stereotypes associated with hearing loss, Waits is one of

thousands of hearing health professionals who support the

2000 Oticon Focus on People awards. This unique national

awards program honors hard-of-hearing individuals who

demonstrate through their accomplishments that hearing

loss does not limit a person's ability to lead a full and

productive life.

To obtain

an entry form to nominate an outstanding hard-of-hearing

individual for this year's Focus on People awards,

contact Oticon at 800-526-3921 or visit www.oticonus.com .

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