Many people fail to use a hearing aid in the false belief that it draws attention to their problem. In fact, most hearing aids are quite inconspicuous. They blend in with one's appearance even better than eyeglasses. The individual whose hearing loss is really conspicuous is the one who says "what?" or "huh?" all the time. He often misunderstands and has a straining-to-hear look on his face. If a hearing aid can eliminate the need to do these things, it will make the problem less noticeable, not more obvious. In almost all cases friends will welcome the use of a hearing aid. It will spare them the painful necessity of having to shout and repeat for him.

Believe it or not, some people used to be self conscious about wearing eyeglasses. Today, with the fancy frames and contact lenses, nobody minds. Similar advances have been made in audiology. The new hearing aids are almost as difficult to detect as contact lenses You could be wearing both and nobody would know. If you are concerned about your hearing, come to the VALLEY HEARING AID CENTER, 982 Park Row, for a professional evaluation by a licensed audiologist. We can help you to hear normally and comfortably. Our hours are Mon. to Fri. 9-5. Tel: 422-4427.

Self Help for Hard of Hearing People, Inc. meets every Thursday at 8 p.m. at the Steinbeck Library.