For most of us, April signals the arrival of spring. But for audiologists everywhere, April is all about the American Academy of Audiology Convention. That's where they learn about advancements in the field, study emerging issues and preview new technology. The League's Assistant Director of Audiology, Anita Stein-Meyers, was there and shares her experiences. Anita says:

The 20th Annual AAA Convention in Charlotte, NC was, for me, an educational experience. Through a series of workshops, lectures and exhibitions I was introduced to the latest research and consumer products. I also learned about an important issue relating to pediatric audiology (which is my specialty).

With the advent of newborn hearing screenings in the U.S., we've seen enormous progress, as most of you know, in the early identification and treatment of newborns with hearing loss. What you may not know is that infants and children in developing countries continue to be identified at later ages and are unable to receive the needed services. I was moved and inspired by eloquent lecturer Dr. De Wet Swanepoel of the University of Pretoria in South Africa who noted that worldwide hearing loss in children is a silent epidemic that affects over 62 million children. He reminds us that hearing loss must be made a global priority and the allocation of sufficient resources and funding is critical.

On the technology front, those of you who use hearing aids or cochlear implants will want to learn about several new products that improve both the access to sound and the quality of sound. These product innovations also address consumers' growing demand for enhanced ease-of-use, cosmetic appearance, and compatibility with accessories.

• RITE technology (receiver in the ear) is now available in more brands of hearing aids. Candidates for this product can wear a virtually invisible instrument comprised of a small behind the ear device coupled to a wire worn into the ear canal.
• A growing number of hearing aids are also Bluetooth equipped, providing wireless connectivity to telephones and MP3 players.
• A new water-resistant hearing aid reduces the risk of mechanical failure due to humidity, perspiration or the occasional splash of water. It's an option parents might want to consider for their child.

An expanding array of assistive listening devices offers more options to ease communication in challenging situations. You'll want to check out the new products available that can improve your ability to use the phone, view television or respond to your alarm clock. And if you have any questions about what technology is best for you, contact your audiologist. Now is a great time to schedule a visit.

League Buzz is pleased to introduce a new advice column that will address your questions about hearing loss. Tap into the expertise of consumer advocate Ruth Bernstein and League experts to gain insight about the issues that matter most to you. Direct your questions to leaguebuzz@lhh.org (see link at the very bottom of the page). We'll address a different topic each month. First up...the trials and tribulations of travel.

Dear League Buzz,

I have a severe hearing loss and will be traveling by myself for the first time. What should I do to make the trip as easy as possible?

Dear Traveler,

Traveling rates high on the list of stressful situations for people with hearing loss. There are so many "need to hear" situations involved that planning and enjoying a trip can seem overwhelming and frightening. Here are some suggestions that should lessen your pre-trip anxiety and enhance your enjoyment.

• Tell everyone who is involved in arranging your trip that you have a hearing loss and explain what your communication needs are. Mention your hearing loss when making reservations over the phone. Or better yet, make reservations online.
• Follow up by stating your needs in writing. Ask for written confirmation of all arrangements.
• Take and use assistive listening systems like pocket talkers and FM systems. Make sure you check with your carrier about how and where to pack these devices.
• Take two copies of your audiogram, back up hearing aids and extra batteries for hearing aids and ALDs.

Flying presents unique challenges, so consider these tips.

• Choose an aisle seat so you are closer to the flight attendant, making it easier to hear and speechread. Sit as far away from the engines as possible.
• When checking in, ask if you can pre-board because you may not hear your row called. Sit within sight of the gate personnel so you'll be aware of when announcements are being made.
• Use a personal listening system. Keep in mind FM systems cannot be used during take off or landing. Use paper and pencil, if necessary.

If you have communication problems during a trip, speak to the person in charge and explain your needs calmly and clearly. Be flexible and keep your sense of humor. After the trip, if you experienced difficulty traveling and were not given what you asked for and are entitled to, complain to the top. Phone or better yet write a letter to the president of the company. Letters of thanks are recommended as well.

Bon voyage!

League kids showed surprising ease working in mixed media at MoMA's Early Childhood Workshop April 6th. The kids enjoyed a guided gallery tour and then created inspired art of their own. We thank MoMA for its ongoing partnership with the League.

For the 13th year, the League spearheaded International Noise Awareness Day. On Wednesday, April 16th, grassroots events unfolded in more than 60 countries, all calling attention to the dangers that noise poses to hearing, health, learning and behavior. Here in New York, the League's Mobile Hearing Test Unit visited City Hall. League Director of Public Education, Amy Boyle, manages this global campaign with the goal of educating the public on the importance of creating a quiet home, school, work and recreational environment.

There are still a few comedy lovers out there who haven't bought tickets to the League's 22nd Annual "2 Nights of Comedy." We promise a riotous evening of topical comedy made accessible through real-time captioning, infrared listening systems and Sign Language interpreters. The nightly admission cost of $60 helps support League services and entitles you to two yummy drinks. For reservations, email birizarry@lhh.org or phone (917) 305-7702.

A line-up of gifted and big-hearted comics are taking part, including Eddie Brill of Late Night with David Letterman. In fact, Eddie has a message for you.

Here's a story ready-made for Hollywood. A woman with hearing loss suggests to a movie executive that he reach out to the hard of hearing community in marketing foreign films. Foreign films, because they are captioned, have the potential to appeal to people who are hard of hearing. The fairy tale ending: he listened.

We are thrilled to report that Samuel Goldwyn Films has initiated a partnership with the League for the Hard of Hearing. Check out their new release "Roman De Gare" which opens in select cities Friday, April 25th. Directed by Academy Award winning director Claude Delouch, "Roman De Gare" is a stylish and twisty thriller as only the French can deliver.

Mark Ross, Ph.D. and Judy Gravel, Ph.D., CCC-A will be among those honored at the the League's 98th Annual Meeting on Tuesday, May 6th. We invite you to join us in recognizing their invaluable contributions to the field of hearing loss. Come join the celebration at 3PM on the second floor at 52 Broadway. For more information, contact aflores@lhh.org.

HLAA's "Walk4Hearing" takes place Saturday, May 3 in Yorktown Heights, NY. The event raises funds to support hearing loss awareness and programs. Last year's walk raised $145,000. For more information contact Pam at pfoody@yahoo.com or phone (718) 884-8634.

May is "Better Hearing and Speech Month." We encourage you or someone you know to take the first step toward addressing a possible hearing loss by answering the following questions.

1. Do you have trouble hearing when in a restaurant?
2. Do you ever have ringing in your ears?
3. Do you ever have trouble communicating with more than one person?
4. Do you have trouble hearing and understanding what someone is saying in another room?
5. Do you complain that "everyone mumbles?"
6. Do you find yourself saying "what" a lot?

No gift is too small or too big. Please support the League for the Hard of Hearing.

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We invite you to join us as partners in brightening the lives of people who are deaf, hard of hearing and deaf-blind. There are countless ways that you can become involved and help. Together we can assure a world without limits.

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