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Volume 13, number 2, 2020

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Wearing Masks

and Hearing Aids

New

Hearing Health Consultation An Online Store to Serve You

Better

MARIE-JOSÃ‰E TAILLEFER Finding a Different Way to Care

Stronger TOGETHER

Humans have an amazing ability to adapt— not only do we overcome challenges, we also come out the other side stronger than ever. Even when life has been turned upside down, when nothing is the same anymore, when we feel like we’re losing control, we can find a way to reinvent ourselves and keep moving forward. The last few months have tested us. There have been many transformations and, unfortunately, many loved ones have left us too quickly. However, during this period when everything was on hold, we had a duty to take the time to make changes quickly to protect ourselves collectively. Even though the uncertainty is still there, I really feel that we do not want to let ourselves down. Thanks to an unprecedented collective effort, we rolled up our sleeves and reviewed our habits and ways of doing things because, let's face it, we were facing a situation that was totally unknown to us. And I think we can be proud of ourselves, while remaining vigilant. This edition of Lobe Magazine is very special. In a way, it’s further evidence of just how much has changed. But it also highlights some incredible initiatives. Because even in the darkest of times, the light is never far away. Nor are rainbows, for that matter. Happy reading! Marie-Josée Taillefer Ambassador of Lobe clinics and of hearing health

TABLE OF CONTENTS 4

FINDING A DIFFERENT WAY TO CARE

Marie-Josée Taillefer’s Column

DISCOVER THE BRAND NEW HEARING HEALTH CONSULTATION

SAFETY FIRST

HELPING YOU MAINTAIN YOUR HEARING AIDS

HEARING AIDS MAINTENANCE:

It’s Essential!

VOLUME 13, NUMBER 2, 2020 Editor Julie Grenier-Turcot Graphic designer Andrée-Anne Michel Printing house Imprimerie Solisco inc.

REPLACING THE WAX GUARD:

An Important Part of Maintenance!

LISTENING TO TV HAS NEVER BEEN EASIER!

GETTING CLOSER… FROM A DISTANCE

AN ONLINE STORE TO SERVE YOU BETTER

WEARING MASKS AND HEARING AIDS

VIRTUAL HEARING HEALTH APPOINTMENTS

TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCES IN HEARING AIDS

HOW HEARING LOSS AFFECTS HEALTH

HEARING AIDS ADAPTED TO WEARING A MASK

THE RÉSEAU FADOQ BREAKS THE ISOLATION, OTHERWISE

BACK TO NORMAL?

BACK TO SCHOOL (IN MAY)

WHAT ABOUT THE SENIORS IN CHSLDS?

WHAT’S NEW IN THE LOBE CLINICS?

ADDRESSES OF THE LOBE CLINICS

Rights and responsibilities Any translation, reproduction or adaptation of texts, illustrations and photos in this work, for any reason whatsoever, in whole or in part, is strictly prohibited without written permission from the editor. The opinions expressed in articles published by Publications Lobe are the responsibility of the author. Legal deposit ISSN 1913-0287 Bibliothèque et Archives nationales du Québec, Montréal Library and Archives Canada, Ottawa Publications Lobe 725, boulevard Lebourgneuf, suite 303 Québec (Québec) G2J 0C4 Tel.: 418 877-7222 Fax: 581 814-6260 Email: courrier@lobe.ca www.lobe.ca Printed in Canada All trademarks are the property of Lobe Santé auditive inc./Bulletin produced by Publications Lobe. The typographical recommendations for visually-impaired persons from Institut de réadaptation en déficience physique de Québec have been taken into consideration during the production of this magazine.

QUEBEC COMPANY Support a local company! The Quebec company BiMoo, which offers educational and fun tablecloths for children aged 2 to 8, recently launched a colouring mandala for adults and seniors who want to develop their artistic side. Using washable markers, the tablecloths can be coloured and washed several times, prolonging the fun! Beautifully illustrated by Quebec artists, the tablecloths are digitally printed and are very easy to care for. Since the environment is at the heart of the company's priorities, the tablecloths are ecological, reusable and made of OEKO-TEX certified polyester. Visit bimoo.ca to discover this great company! A beautiful local product to entertain people of all ages! LOBE.CA | © LOBE MAGAZINE 2020

COLUMN | MARIE-JOSÉE TAILLEFER

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Finding

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COLUMN

A DIFFERENT WAY TO CARE It’s March 2020. I’ve just learned that Québec has declared a state of public health emergency. A few days later, the entire province is put on pause. We’ve all been affected by this crisis in some way. Personally, all of my conferences and events were cancelled. Especially since a part of the clientele targeted by these activities was precisely the one most at risk. Cancelling was really the only option. It was a matter of safety. Over the past few months, we’ve all had to get used to the new rules. We had no choice, even if it meant changing behaviours we had been practicing all our lives such as shaking hands or kissing. Even so, I think we’ve really shown a lot of resilience as a society.

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COLUMN | MARIE-JOSÉE TAILLEFER

Shifting Our Habits and Practices

Safety, Our Priority

We have all shown a lot of empathy by making changes to protect the most vulnerable among us. The widespread use of face masks shows just how much we care about our community. While I’m not questioning this measure in any way, I must admit that I wondered how it would affect people with hearing loss. I wasn’t sure how my children, who are both deaf and generally read lips to understand, would be able to talk to someone who’s wearing a mask.

New Health Protocol

However, I have found that a lot of people have been very empathetic once they have been made aware of the challenge. So if you have hearing loss, don’t be afraid to mention it to the person you’re talking to. People just need to be aware that these new measures can be an obstacle to some. More often than not, they will adjust their behaviour accordingly.

Of course, in terms of health protocol, everything has been put in place in the clinics to ensure the safety of patients and all professionals, always taking into account public health recommendations. As soon as an appointment is booked, a triage is carried out to check the patient’s state of health, but also to offer the best appointment option. When you arrive at the clinic, you’ll be asked to sanitize your hands and wear a mask. At the counter, plexiglas panels have been installed to ensure the protection of all. The surfaces are disinfected frequently during the day and the number of seats in the waiting rooms has been limited to encourage physical distancing. In addition, the professionals you meet will be wearing gloves, masks, and visors. So you have nothing to worry about—all of these measures ensure a safe environment.

Businesses Are Transforming We haven’t just had to review our habits as individuals. Companies have also had to adapt very quickly. Changes that could have taken years to implement were made in just a few weeks. Even if nobody was ready to make so many changes so quickly, we had to roll up our sleeves and do it. It became an opportunity to innovate. Of course, Lobe clinics didn’t escape this wave of change. All of its adjustments were made with the goal of protecting patients and professionals alike. I’d like to share a few changes that have come about in Lobe clinics over the past few months. Not only do I want to inform you of the new safety protocols, I also want to let you know that all of these changes, while they were implemented quickly, are both positive and permanent.

Hearing Health Consultation Another big change in the Lobe network is the launch of the hearing health consultation. This is a consultation offered for free* that can be done by videoconference, by telephone or in a Lobe clinic, in a secure environment. This service was developed to allow people to take control of their hearing health, while limiting travel. You will find all the details about this consultation on page 7. »»»

*Permanent offer. 18 and over. LOBE.CA | © LOBE MAGAZINE 2020

COLUMN | MARIE-JOSÉE TAILLEFER

Redefining “Normal”

Online Visibility A New Online Store The last few months have given Lobe the opportunity to go virtual. It’s led to a few major changes, most notably the new online store! You can now purchase a number of items online to help you take care of your hearing health. Even better, the items are delivered right to your home. That means you don’t need to go out to get hearing aids batteries. The online store also has hearing aids maintenance products, and even some assistive listening devices. Learn more about the online store in the article on page 14 or visit boutique.lobe.ca/en.

Going Digital… Faster Lobe clinics have chosen to speed up their digital shift in order to encourage physical distancing. That means implementing changes like these: ✔ Digitizing tens of thousands of patient files. ✔ Implementing software to let us go paperless—not only is this better for the environment, it also reduces the risk of virus transmission. ✔ Making Lobe Magazine available online, improving access. ✔ Creating a Customer Account on the online store with exclusive content. ✔ Add a virtual assistant on lobe.ca to guide visitors and help them find the information they need. I was also able to film a number of informative videos about hearing health. These videos let people discover the services available in Lobe clinics and provide tips on improving people’s everyday lives. You can watch the videos on Lobe’s Facebook page and YouTube channel! I will also soon be taking part in live appointments on the web.

We have the impression that our lives have changed overnight, and we still don’t know what the next few months—let alone the next few years—will bring. We will have to establish a new normal. Transformations will still occur, some more important than others. Personally, I’m embracing all of these individual and organizational changes. One day, we will be telling stories about this time to children who are too young to know what’s going on right now. We will tell them about all of the upheavals and how things weren’t always easy. We will explain to them how life changed, drastically. But we will also tell them about the beauty. That we have realized just how much we can accomplish together. We will teach them to empathize, to enjoy every moment as if it were their last. We will encourage them to slow down, to take their time. Surely, they won’t have the same “normal” that we did for so long, but they'll be stronger and better equipped than we are to deal with any similar situation. Take care of yourselves, Marie-Josée Taillefer Ambassador of Lobe clinics and of hearing health

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DISCOVER THE BRAND NEW

Hearing Health Consultation All Lobe clinics are now offering free* hearing health consultation with a hearing health professional. Even better, they’re now available via videoconference, phone, or in-person appointment (in a secure environment). Our goal is to make hearing health care even more accessible to Quebecers and break the isolation caused by hearing loss. The consultation, which lasts approximately 45 minutes, is specially designed for people who have concerns about their hearing and are ready to do everything they can to improve it. This consultation is available by videoconference so that we can better meet people’s new needs. You can even have a family member join from their home. When you make an appointment, simply state that you would prefer a videoconference and we will send you an appointment confirmation by email. This email will have a link to connect to the videoconference platform just before your appointment. You don’t need to download anything before the appointment; just click on the link and it will automatically open in your browser.

How It Works At the beginning of your appointment, you’ll get to know the hearing health professional so that you feel comfortable with him. He will then learn your history by asking you questions about your health, your job, and your hobbies. Next, he will assess your hearing problems and make connections to factors like your lifestyle, your job, and your family history. Then he will explain the consultation results to you using

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tools that keep you engaged and help you understand. For example, he will use a detailed diagram of the ear to show you the path that sound takes from the entrance of your ear to your brain. That will help you learn about the parts of the human ear.

Finding a Solution There are many solutions available to help you improve your everyday life, no matter your situation. The hearing health professional will also introduce you to the government agencies that can help you, as well as their eligibility criteria. For example, you’ll learn about programs offered by the Régie de l’assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ); the Commission des normes, de l’équité, de la santé et de la sécurité du travail (CNESST); and Veterans Affairs Canada. Many private insurance companies also cover hearing aids. People who work or have already worked in noisy environments are taken care of in order to request, if necessary, the opening of a file at CNESST. This can help you receive compensation and give you tools to reduce the impact of your hearing loss and, sometimes, your tinnitus.

There are also many types of assistive listening devices available. These include telephones for people with hearing loss, TV listening systems, adapted alarm clocks, and much more. During your appointment, the hearing health professional will give you an overview of all the solutions available to you.

Dedicated Professionals Depending on your needs, you may need to see another hearing health care professional practicing in a Lobe clinic. That’s why we’ll tell you about the roles of each professional at the end of your appointment. Rest assured that all hearing health professionals work closely together to help improve your quality of life. They care about your hearing health. *Permanent offer. 18 and over.

Karl Drouin Audioprosthetist practicing in Beauce

Don’t delay: make an appointment now by calling 1 866 411-5623.

may remove the mask and only wear a visor. If they do this, they will make sure to stay two metres away from you. However, even if the audiologist removes their mask, we ask that you keep your own mask on during the entire appointment.

Safety FIRST Lobe has recently introduced a number of measures to protect everyone in its clinics. Naturally, all of the hearing health professionals practicing in Lobe clinics will be following these measures, but here’s an example of what an audiology appointment will look like. When you contact the clinic to make an appointment, the receptionist will check a few things beforehand. In particular, they will ask whether you have symptoms like a cough, fever, or breathing difficulties. If you are at risk of having contracted the virus, you will be asked to postpone your appointment. Of course, everyone practicing in the clinic must do the same; professionals are asked not to come into work if they may have been exposed to the virus. We also keep the number of people in the clinics to a minimum in order to maintain physical distancing.

Whenever possible, we will ask for information over the phone when opening your file. This will reduce the amount of time you spend in the waiting room. At this time, non-essential companions are not allowed to accompany you. In addition, you must wear a mask at all times inside the clinic. Finally, when we confirm your appointment, we will ask you not to arrive too early. This will reduce the number of patients in the waiting room.

New Measures We will ask you to sanitize your hands when you arrive at the clinic. If you have forgotten your mask, we will provide you with one in exchange for a $2 donation to the Fondation Sourdine. You’ll see that plexiglas panels have been installed at the reception desk to ensure a distance between professionals and patients. You’ll also notice that accessible seating has been reduced to make sure there is enough space between patients. When the audiologist comes to get you from the waiting room, they will be wearing a mask and a visor. If the mask makes communication difficult because of your hearing loss, the audiologist

After your appointment, all work surfaces, devices (assessment tools, headphones, keyboards, computer mouses, etc.), door handles, chairs, and children’s toys we will disinfect. The audiologist will use hand sanitizer throughout the appointment and wash their hands before and after each appointment. In addition, we will limit the number of documents exchanged between staff and patients. We also encourage contactless payments. The card reader will also be disinfected after each use. Véronique Abran Audiologist practicing at the Drummondville Lobe clinic

We’ve established all of these measures so that we can see you safely. For more information or to schedule an appointment, you can call us at 1 866 411-5623.

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HELPING YOU MAINTAIN YOUR

Hearing Aids

Hearing aids need to be maintained regularly to keep them working properly. However, it’s important to use maintenance products that are designed for hearing aids. Other types of cleaner, like glass cleaner or alcohol-based cleaning products, can damage the hearing aids and should be avoided. Here are some products that are specially designed for people who wear hearing aids. VapoLobe VapoLobe is a cleaning solution for hearing aid's shells, earmolds, and domes. Simply spray a small amount of the cleaner onto a tissue, then wipe the hearing aids.

ServiLobe To clean your hearing aids, you can also use ServiLobe, which are individually wrapped wet wipes that use the same cleaner. ServiLobe are perfect for travelling.

ProtecLobe The ProtecLobe is a nightly protector. It removes moisture that can damage your hearing aids. The system consists of a bottle with a basket and a tablet. In the evening, remove your hearing aids batteries, then place the hearing aids in the basket and close the lid. Ideally, the tablet, which becomes paler over time, should be replaced every three months.

Maintenance tools Brushes are useful for deep cleaning your hearing aids. They allow you to clean areas that are harder to reach, like the earmolds.

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If you’d like to purchase maintenance products for your hearing aids, they’re now available through our online store at boutique.lobe.ca/en .

Here are some more products that make using your hearing aids easier:

TestLobe The TestLobe is a battery tester. Simply place a battery on the gold part of the TestLobe, with the + on the battery facing up, to see if the battery is good or if it needs to be changed.

InserLobe The InserLobe is a lubricating gel that can be applied to the earmold so that the hearing aids can be placed correctly in the ear.

SensiLobe Sensilobe is a soothing solution that can be applied at the entrance of the external ear canal to relieve itching. Do not use SensiLobe if you have a perforated eardrum, an ear infection, or if you have had ear surgery. If in doubt, ask your ENT specialist. Using high-quality products and maintaining your hearing aids daily will help make sure they continue working properly. If you have any questions about maintenance techniques, don’t hesitate to get in touch with an audioprosthetist or specialized educator. Lou-Ann Leblanc Audioprosthetist practicing in Neufchâtel

Hearing Aids Maintenance: IT’S ESSENTIAL!

Here are some tips for maintaining your hearing aids in the comfort of your own home. We strongly recommend that you clean your hearing aids nightly to keep them working properly. Regular cleaning also helps prevent infections caused by earwax and dirt in the hearing aids.

Here’s a maintenance routine that can save you a lot of trouble: 1. Remove your hearing aids. 2. Open the battery compartment, remove the batteries, and set them aside. This help preserve battery life. 3. Use your VapoLobe to clean your hearing aids. Simply spray it on a tissue or microfibre cloth, then wipe the outsides of your hearing aids and their rigid earmolds or silicone domes. This will make sure you’ve removed any earwax. Avoid using eyeglass cleaners or alcohol, as they can damage your hearing aids. 4. Use a cleaning brush to clean your hearing aids microphones. This removes any dirt that could prevent the sound from reaching the hearing aids. If you have rigid earmolds, it’s important to clean the vents with the brush. The vents often become clogged with earwax, preventing air from moving around your ear. Once the vents have been cleaned, you’ll find that your hearing aids are much more comfortable.

5. Once you’ve cleaned your hearing aids, place them in your ProtecLobe container or electronic dehumidifier. These containers remove excess moisture, which could damage your hearing aids. Note that the tablet in the ProtecLobe should be changed every three months or whenever it turns a pale yellow. It’s important to change the tablet because it absorbs moisture.

It’s also important to regularly maintain the wax guard. You’ll learn how to do this in the article on page 11. By taking just a few minutes each day to care for your hearing aids, you can make sure they keep working properly. If you have any questions about hearing aids maintenance, don’t hesitate to get in touch with your audioprosthetist or specialized educator. These hearing health professionals will be happy to help you! Marilyn Parent Specialized educator practicing in Neufchâtel

An assessment by an audioprosthetist is required to determine which hearing aid suits the patient’s needs.

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Replacing the Wax Guard:

AN IMPORTANT PART OF MAINTENANCE! The wax guard is a small part that protects hearing aids speakers, which sit inside the ear. It’s a sort of small basket that filters earwax and collects dirt, protecting the internal circuitry of the hearing aids. The filter should be replaced as needed to prevent breakage and keep the hearing aids working properly. It may need to be replaced if:

Here’s a table that shows you how to replace the wax guard:

1 Take a stick and screw the coloured end into the white opening of the hearing aid. Pull firmly to remove the wax guard to be replaced.

180°

2 Turn the stick 180°.

✔ The hearing aids are quieter

than usual ✔ The sound from the hearing aids

is intermittent ✔ The hearing aids aren’t

3 Insert the new wax guard into the hearing aid opening, without screwing it in.

producing sound Your first instinct would probably be to replace the battery, which is a good thing. However, if the problem continues, you may want to try replacing the wax guard.

4 Remove the stick from the hearing aid and discard it.

You can get the wax guard model that’s right for you by visiting boutique.lobe.ca/en.

There are different models of wax guard, so make sure you choose the right one for your hearing aids. If you have any questions about this, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with your audioprosthetist. Laurie Lafantaisie Audioprosthetist practicing in Mirabel

LOBE.CA | © LOBE MAGAZINE 2020

Adapted Listening Systems Some TV listening systems can transmit the sound from your TV directly into your hearing aids, making it easier to listen and less effort to understand. One of the advantages of this type of system is that the TV signal is amplified according to your hearing loss, and then broadcast directly to your hearing aids. So if your hearing loss affects highpitched sounds, your hearing aids will correct the TV signal only for high frequencies.

LISTENING TO TV HAS NEVER

Been Easier!

We’ve all spent a lot of time at home over the past few months. And isolation may have revealed some hearing problems in your everyday life. Have you had trouble understanding video chats with your loved ones? Have you noticed that the volume on your TV is rather high? Fortunately, there are many solutions to help make your life easier!

You are able to choose what you want to hear. You can choose to hear only the sound from your TV or you can balance the TV volume with ambient sounds and conversations. The choice is yours! If you would like help in connecting your TV listening system to your hearing aids, consult your audioprosthetist or your specialized educator. He will be able to help you.

Products for Everyone Even if you don’t wear hearing aids, there are TV listening systems for you. These systems use wireless headphones to amplify the sound of your TV. That means you can move around the house while listening to your favourite shows at a comfortable volume. Even better, this system allows you to watch TV with another person. Both people can watch at the same time, at completely different volumes. An audioprosthetist or a specialized educator will be able to assess your needs and let you know about the options available to you. You can also visit boutique.lobe.ca/en to see the TV listening systems available online. Maggie Lamarre Audioprosthetist practicing in Notre-Dame-de-Grâce

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GETTING CLOSER…

From a Distance Videoconference has become exponentially more popular over the past few months. However, people who are less comfortable with new technologies may feel caught off guard by this new means of communication.

While videoconference may seem challenging, they’re an effective way to communicate with friends, family, and colleagues alike. Recently, they’ve also helped limit the consequences of isolation. If you have hearing loss, videoconference platforms can be an excellent way of staying in touch while staying safe. They let you see the other person’s face, so you can read their lips in addition to seeing and hearing them. That’s why we encourage people to explore videoconference. Once you’ve mastered the technology, it’s fairly easy to use. Here are a few important things to know about videoconference platforms:

+ +

You need a stable and fast Internet connection as well as a device (computer, tablet, or smartphone). There are many different videoconference platforms, so make sure to choose the one your friends and family are using. If you’re using a computer, you can keep the link handy by saving it to your favourites. If you’re using a tablet or smartphone, make sure to install the app by visiting the App Store or Google Play. In some cases, the other person may email you a link. In that case, all you need to do is click on the link and the video chat will start automatically.

Your Audioprosthetist Is There For You If you wear hearing aids, make sure to ask your audioprosthetist whether they’re compatible with your smartphone, tablet, or computer. If they are, their Bluetooth technology will let you use your hearing aids as headphones. That means the other person’s voice can be transmitted directly to your hearing aids. Most new hearing aids models are now compatible with Apple and Android products. If you need help using new technologies, you might find it helpful to take an introductory class on computer skills. Libraries and cultural centres offer these classes in most parts of Québec. Why wait? It’s never too late to learn! Roxanne Gravel-Bélair

And that’s it! Now you’re ready to video chat with your friends and family. LOBE.CA | © LOBE MAGAZINE 2020

Audioprosthetist practicing in Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts

An Online Store

TO SERVE YOU BETTER The past few months have brought about a lot of change. Everyone has had to be proactive, since we’ve had to make a lot of changes very quickly. In order to meet the needs of the population, but also to ensure the safety of patients and all professionals practicing in the Lobe clinics, we have made several changes in our procedures and ways of doing things. Our ambassador, Marie-Josée Taillefer, has addressed the subject in detail in her column. We launched our online store so we could do our part to protect people. We believe that people who wear hearing aids should be able to access the devices and maintenance products they need at any time, from the comfort of their own homes. Making this possible is just part of our mission to improve access to hearing health care and communication.

Regular maintenance also helps the hearing aids keep working properly. We believe that people must be able to get the products they need easily, without having to go out. Of course, our products will still be available in Lobe clinics as well. However, right now, it’s important to protect everyone by staying home as much as possible. That’s why we encourage you to visit our online store at boutique.lobe.ca/en. You will also be able to create your Customer Account. This will give you access to exclusive content (Lobe Magazine, Marie-Josée Taillefer capsules, maintenance guides and much more). If you need help using the online store or the Customer Account, we are here to help you. Simply call 1 866 411-5623 and someone will be able to accompany you and answer your questions. Here is an overview of the products that are now available in our online store:

The Importance of Proper Maintenance We also chose to open an online store because we know it’s crucial for people to have access to high-quality maintenance products for their hearing aids. Using products that aren’t designed for hearing aids can damage them.

Maintenance products

TV listening systems

Maintenance tools

Batteries and chargers

Assistive listening devices

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! EW N

PEACE OF MIND PROGRAM

Your hearing health is important to us and we're here to take care of you. Give yourself peace of mind with our brand new program created specifically to meet your needs. For more details, contact your audioprosthetist or your specialized educator.

STARTING AUGUST 31, 2020

listening to you for nearly 20 years.

Wearing Masks AND HEARING AIDS

Wearing a mask may cause some inconvenience to hearing aids wearers. Putting on or removing a mask can cause the straps to dislodge the hearing aids, making the devices more likely to break or get lost. This is especially true for people who wear behind-the-ear (BTE) and receiver-in-the-ear (RITE) hearing aids, which sit behind the ear. Here are a few tips to help you adapt to this new reality without risking damage or loss of your hearing aids.

Securing Your Hearing Aids The best way to keep your hearing aids in place is to use a hearing aids retention cord, which lets you attach your hearing aids to the collar of your clothes. It’s fast and easy to place, too: just attach the rings on the retention cord to your hearing aids, then clip the other end of the strap to the collar of your clothes. Once you’ve attached the clip, you can wear your hearing aids normally. You’ll have peace of mind knowing that your hearing aids will be protected, even when you put on and take off your mask. The retention cord is available in two lengths and meets safety standards for hearing aids retention devices. It’s made entirely of biocompatible materials. This hearing aids retention cord is available in all Lobe clinics and on boutique.lobe.ca/en.

Increased Safety You can protect your hearing aids even more by using a mobile app that’s available on Apple and Android devices. It has a feature that allows you to locate your hearing aids if you lose them. The feature is very easy to use. In the app, simply choose the Hearing Aids menu and select Find my hearing aids. This will bring up a map showing you the last place your hearing aids connected to your phone. You can also choose to receive an alert whenever your hearing aids stop connecting to your phone. The app has also a troubleshooting guide and an advice tab, giving you access to a wealth of information so you can take advantage of all the features in your hearing aids. If you have any questions about wearing a mask while using hearing aids, please contact your audioprosthetist. Josée Guillemette Bilingual Audiology Support Specialist

An assessment by an audioprosthetist is required to determine which hearing aid suits the patient’s needs.

LOBE.CA | © LOBE MAGAZINE 2020

Virtual

HEARING HEALTH APPOINTMENTS An assessment by an audioprosthetist is required to determine which hearing aid suits the patient’s needs.

Recently, we’ve had to rethink some of our practices and habits as we start to return to the “new normal.” We’ve certainly had to make changes in our personal and professional lives. It is in this context that certain practices in the health field have emerged, allowing professionals to offer safe services that promote physical distancing. Teleconsultation has become increasingly popular, and the field of hearing health has not escaped this transformation. Indeed, it will soon be possible for people wearing hearing aids compatible with Bluetooth 2.4 GHz technology to connect remotely for a consultation with their audioprosthetist via a mobile application available on Apple and Android devices. The service will use a secure connection and allow audioprosthetists to provide immediate help and advice online. It will be very easy to use, just like current videoconference platforms.

LOBE.CA | © LOBE MAGAZINE 2020

The hearing aids programming software will let audioprosthetists see their patients in a videoconference and readjust the hearing aids as needed. That means you won’t have to compromise! You’ll have access to hearing health care whether you’re at home, at work, or out. The app will also be extremely useful for people with reduced mobility. Talk to your audioprosthetist to learn more about virtual appointments. Charles-Edouard Basile Business Development Manager

Reducing Processing Time

Technological Advances IN HEARING AIDS

When programming hearing aids, audioprosthetists need to make sure they’re giving their patients enough amplification and the best sound quality possible. However, given every patient is unique, there is great variability between individuals, which can create some challenges when it comes to programming hearing aids. In fact, a study of 30 participants showed that they experienced the vent effect very differently, even when they were wearing the same type of dome. The vent effect is the loss of amplified sounds from the hearing aids. The sounds escape through the vent and leak from the edges of the dome or the earmold. Hearing aids earmolds and domes have vents so that wearers don’t feel like their ears are plugged. The vents also allow sounds to enter and reach the eardrum directly, without being amplified by the hearing aids. When ambient sounds mix with amplified sounds, they can produce interference, also known as the comb filter effect. The direct and amplified sounds aren’t synchronized, so they alternate between adding and cancelling each other out. That causes sudden spikes and drops in the combined signal, which look like the teeth of a comb (see figure 1). More ventilation creates a bigger comb filter effect, which can affect sound quality.

In order to limit the impacts of the variability of the vent effect, a hearing aid manufacturer has integrated solutions directly into its hearing aids’ programming software. One of these solutions is to measure the Feedback Test. This ensures greater accuracy of the hearing aid programming and improves sound quality by measuring and compensating for the vent effect, individual to each person. As mentioned, the comb filter effect is caused by direct and amplified sounds that are out of sync with each other. Sounds fall out of sync with each other because hearing aids can’t process sound instantaneously. They need time to capture, analyze, and amplify the sound for the wearer. Hearing aid wearers can perceive processing delays greater than 0.5 millisecond, which can lead to a distorted hearing experience. That’s why one hearing aid manufacturer developed a new ultra-fast sound processing technology. It minimizes processing delays and eliminates the audible artifacts and distortion inherent in hearing aids until now. This innovation will improve the sound quality of hearing aids and make communication easier. Janic Lauriault Audiologist Technical support

Reference : Balling, Jensen, Caporali, Cubick and Switalski, Challenges of Instant-Fit Ear-Tips: What Happens at the Eardrum?, Hearing Review, December 2019.

Figure 1

An assessment by an audioprosthetist is required to determine which hearing aid suits the patient’s needs.

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HOW HEARING LOSS AFFECTS

Health

In Canada, it is estimated that approximately 35% of the population aged 20-79 has an age-related hearing loss. Yet only 4% of Canadians report having hearing loss. And they wait an average of 7 years or more before seeing a hearing health professional about it1. This lack of concern for hearing health is a major issue, since untreated hearing loss affects more than just the person themselves. It also affects the people around them. In fact, age-related hearing loss frequently co-exists with other conditions (co-morbidity) such as cognitive impairment, diabetes and cardiovascular disease, among others2.

From Fatigue to Diabetes Untreated hearing loss can, among other things, increase the risk of fatigue, anxiety, depression, cognitive decline and dementia2. Fatigue, in particular, is common among people with hearing loss, likely

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because they have to concentrate harder to understand speech. As for cognitive decline, it may be a consequence of the decrease in cognitive stimulation caused by hearing loss. Hearing loss can also cause some people to become more isolated as they try to avoid certain social interactions2. This causes the body to secrete more cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones, in turn, increase heart rate and blood pressure, dilute the pupils and bronchial tubes and affect digestion3. Stress can also cause blood sugar levels to rise, which can, in the long term, create insulin resistance. Insulin lowers blood sugar levels, so insulin resistance may lead to the development of type II diabetes4. High blood sugar can also damage blood vessels, reducing blood flow to certain areas. The tissues that rely on those blood vessels end up being damaged because they are not receiving enough (or sometimes any) blood. Smaller blood vessels, such as those in the cochlea, are particularly vulnerable. In other words, hearing loss can be caused by irreversible damage to the inner ear5. In conclusion, early detection and treatment of hearing loss can greatly improve quality of life and even reduce the risk of some medical conditions. This is why hearing health consultations are recommended from age 50 onward.

References : 1. Statistics Canada. Unperceived hearing loss among Canadians aged 40 to 79. Online. https://www150. statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/82-003-x/2019008/ article/00002-eng.htm. Consulted on February 7, 2020. 2. Harvey Abrams. Hearing Loss and Associated Comorbidities: What Do We Know? Online. https:// www.hearingreview.com/hearing-loss/hearing-loss-prevention/risk-factors/hearing-loss-associated-comorbidities-know. Consulted on January 30, 2020. 3. Maria Fornell, Solitude : ses impacts sur la santé. Online. https://www.alternativesante.fr/stress/ solitude-ses-impacts-sur-la-sante-et-comment-yremedier. Consulted on February 7, 2020. 4. Diabète Québec, Y a-t-il un lien entre le stress et le diabète? Online. http://www.preventiondiabete. ca/prevenir-le-diabete-oui-cest-possible/stress. Consulted on February 7, 2020. 5. CRUICKSHANKS, K. J. et al. Smoking, Central Adiposity and Poor Glycemic Control Increase Risk of Hearing Impairment. JournalAm Geriatr Soc., 63(5): 918–924. 2016.

Talk to a hearing health professional for more information!

Michelle Fournier and Karl Drouin Audioprosthetists practicing in Lévis and in Beauce

The revolutionary features include: An assessment by an audioprosthetist is required to determine which hearing aid suits the patient’s needs.

Hearing Aids adapted TO WEARING A MASK

Over the past three decades, people have changed their lifestyles to incorporate new technologies as they enter the market. Today, technological advances are emerging faster than ever before. We’re no longer adapting to technology; it’s adapting to us! People with hearing loss have more choices than ever for improving and optimizing their hearing, and the solutions are constantly evolving. For instance, people can now take advantage of a brand-new type of hearing aids that’s both customizable and rechargeable. They are considered to be the smallest lithium-ion battery-powered hearing aids on the market, and they provide up to 24 hours of charge. They can also be fully charged in less than 4 hours.

When discretion rhymes with protection These hearing aids lie in the ear canal, they are very discreet and ensure a certain security when wearing a mask. Since they are placed in the ear canal, there is no risk of losing or breaking them when you adjust or remove your mask. These new hearing aids, which can easily confused with Bluetooth devices used in everyday life, also allow wearers to be proactive about their hearing and overall well-being—they come with a unique artificial intelligence technology that makes smart, immediate adjustments based on the listening environment.

"These hearing aids lie in the ear canal, they are very discreet and ensure a certain security when wearing a mask" Talk to an audioprosthetist to learn more about this new technology.

Rizlane Bellamlih

• Automatic adjustment to different sound environments by tapping the hearing aids twice. • Enhanced support with voiceactivated controls. This allows wearers to do things like control the volume and change programs. • A feature that automatically turn off the hearing aids after 15 minutes when placed on a rigid surface. If motion is detected, they will turn on automatically. • Compatibility with Apple and Android devices. • A new user interface that can be accessed from a mobile application, available through the App Store and Google Play. • A unique feature available in the mobile application allowing you to share data with a loved one (number of hours the hearing aids are worn per day, number of steps taken per day, number of falls per day, etc.), which is particularly useful in this time of physical distancing. • Compatibility with several connectivity accessories, including the new table microphone with eight directional microphones. • Exclusive connectivity with OrCam, a revolutionary accessory designed for people with visual impairments. This device is available online on orcam.com. These hearing aids also come in several colours. You can choose to be more discreet or proudly display your new hearing aids!

Territory Manager – Québec

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THE RÉSEAU FADOQ BREAKS THE ISOLATION,

Otherwise

Even the COVID-19 pandemic can’t stand in the way of the mission that the Réseau FADOQ has had for 50 years: to break seniors’ isolation. The network, which is the largest seniors’ organization in Canada, has proven this in many ways. One of the most impressive: a massive courtesy call campaign to reach FADOQ members aged 70 and older. Let’s go back in time a little bit. In mid-March 2020, the Réseau FADOQ found that it once again needed to draw on the resilience that’s marked its half-century of existence. Following government directives, rallies planned for the coming months are cancelled or postponed, telework is massively adopted and the network goes into crisis management mode. A week later, it became clear that the Réseau FADOQ had to take action. It needed to show seniors aged 70 and older, who were confined to their homes as part of the emergency measures, that they are not alone. The network leaped into action and began an extensive courtesy call campaign across Quebec. Staff and volunteers reached out to members one by one to chat with them, make sure they had everything they needed, and refer them to any resources they needed. Many members saw this gesture as an antidote to their loneliness, and it worked so well that thousands of them asked for more calls—something that staff and volunteers gladly did. At the beginning of May, the network passed the 100,000 call mark! As a leading seniors’ rights organization in Quebec, the Réseau FADOQ has also been in closer contact than ever with the governments since the start of this devastating crisis. It’s been demanding improvements to terrible conditions and informing politicians about emerging issues.

TO BECOME A RÉSEAU FADOQ MEMBER:

fadoq.ca 1 800 828-3344

Celebrating Differently The Réseau FADOQ has also had to adjust its 50th anniversary celebrations. It had planned to celebrate throughout 2020 to highlight the fact that the network is now old enough to, well, have its own FADOQ card! Many of the events are continuing as planned: a major renewal contest, the launch of collector’s coins bearing the image of the founder Marie-Ange Bouchard, the grand opening of an exhibit in her honour, the announcement that the network would be planting 50,000 trees for future generations to enjoy, and more. However, the 50th Congress, which would have been held in June, has been postponed until June 2021. In other words, the Réseau FADOQ will be celebrating its 50th anniversary until it’s almost 51! At the time of writing, the network had not yet resume its activities, tournaments, workshops, and other local, regional, or provincial gatherings. But one thing is certain: it will always adapt to accomplish its mission. Sophie Gagnon Réseau FADOQ

In order to keep its members informed about this rapidly shifting situation, the network also increased special communications from the very beginning of the lockdown. It’s been sending weekly newsletters, sharing news and tips on staying entertained at fadoq.ca, and more. LOBE.CA | © LOBE MAGAZINE 2020

Back to NORMAL?

Quebec, as a whole, has been through an unprecedented situation. It’s given rise to doubt, fear, loneliness, and inequality, but also solidarity and resilience. Will we all come out of this unscathed? Of course not. This pandemic has left its mark on each and every one of us. While some have been able to make the most of the situation, others have faced severe consequences. Just think of the oldest and most vulnerable members of our society.

It’s important to remember so we don’t fall back into the same rut. We also need to be more aware of the ways that isolation can affect older people, both physically and mentally. Together, we can mobilize and learn how to share quality time with our friends and family. “Getting back to normal” doesn’t mean we can forget and resign ourselves to the way things were. On the contrary, it’s an opportunity to take stock and take action.

Yes, we’ve discovered new strengths, both as individuals and as a society. But we’ve revealed deficiencies and weaknesses, too. And we’re left with only one option: to correct them. It’s time to recover and create new foundations to rebuild a society that’s stronger, fairer, and more equitable for everybody!

Martine Rodrigue Executive Director Association québécoise de défense des droits des personnes retraitées et préretraitées Lévis-Rive-Sud (AQDR) Reference: Pauline Gravel. L’après-confinement : malades de solitude. Online. https://www.ledevoir.com/societe/sante/580709/coronavirus-malades-de-solitude?fbclid=IwAR16hhK6sfvR5dE-vdTDBTMu9zZwAHUpbN06N7P8oH0SZcLU910gP5sCMs. Consulted on June 15, 2020.

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To the writers who have spent time writing the articles published in this magazine, and who generously agreed to share their knowledge. LOBE.CA | © LOBE MAGAZINE 2020

Back to School (IN MAY)

Things have been a bit different at the École oraliste de Québec pour enfants malentendants ou sourds since March. Students, parents, and staff have all had to adjust to a new reality. It required a lot of teamwork—after all, that’s the key to adapting to change. What a challenge for teachers; they had to change their teaching styles and follow up with each student to make sure they were learning and staying motivated! Thankfully, they were successful, and students were able to keep learning to the best of their ability.

Returning to School In May 2020, more than 65% of students came back to finish the school year in person. Everything had to be rethought in light of the recommendations from public health authorities. We had to implement new protective measures, like giving teachers visors and masks with transparent windows and restructuring classrooms to maintain physical distancing. One of the school’s key objectives was to prioritize learning while keeping everyone safe. That led to several large (and exciting) projects, like releasing salmon fry into the Jacques-Cartier River. The kids loved that project! The whole team worked hard and rose to the challenge wonderfully. Not everyone could return to school, so we also implemented remote learning. Teachers gave nearly customized lessons to students who stayed at home. The teachers loved staying in touch with their students and watching them learn, from a distance. This success was only possible because of the technological tools the École oraliste provided its students. Long before the lockdown, pre-high school and high school students were fortunate enough to have a school-provided iPad, thanks to a generous donation from the Fondation des Sourds du Québec. Elementary school students who didn’t have access to computers at home were given laptops. That made remote learning much easier!

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Arts and Sports We wanted to keep our school days interesting while still following public health directives. Given the small number of students in the classrooms, we were able to reintegrate outdoor physical education classes. We had to modify the structure a bit, but the students loved being able to get moving with Ms. Caroline again. Ms. Christine, the music teacher, also modified her classes so that our young musicians could keep practicing. Our string quartet, which included the music teacher, was even able to hold a short concert in the yard! Even though we had to stay physically distanced, it was a great treat. The Fondation Sourdine’s Saveurs du Théâtre unfortunately had to be cancelled this year. We still wanted to keep students motivated though, so we organized an exhibition for our shared mosaic (a project led by mosaicist Mathieu Bergeron), which showed the play’s main character, Don Quixote, in action. Raphaël Barcelo and Érika St-Hilaire, two young actors, put on a brilliant rendition of the play’s first scene. Congratulations to our young artists!

A Positive Back-To-School All in all, back-to-school 2.0 was a great success. Thanks to our teachers, students, and parents, everyone was able to keep learning. All of our classes even got to try some exciting new projects! Yasmine Sahrane Assistant Director École oraliste de Québec pour enfants malentendants ou sourds

What’s more, in Québec, residential and long-term care centres (CHSLDs) quickly became hotspots for the disease. As a result, many seniors found themselves isolated not only from the outside world, but from their friends and families too. That led to consequences of its own. Many people were needed to take care of residents and allow them to gradually return to normal life. Fortunately, everyone now seems to realize that there is hope, and that we absolutely need to avoid a second wave by protecting the seniors in CHSLDs.

What About THE SENIORS IN CHSLDS?

This pandemic has certainly been far-reaching. While the effects haven’t been the same everywhere, older people have always been at the highest risk of developing serious complications from COVID-19.

However, was it necessary to have so many deaths in order to decide to invest in caring for older people? Orderlies are now being honoured, a training program has been set up and many people have answered the call. Of course, this momentum needs to continue; those who invested in learning to care for seniors need to keep working in our CHSLDs. The government is providing an incentive for training new orderlies. Once confinement ends, we hope that this will lead to a collective change of consciousness and show everyone that we need to take care of our seniors, rather than becoming a simple cash grab. In the meantime, our seniors are still at risk. That’s why it’s critical to advocate for a social vaccine by raising awareness about the risks of exposure to the virus. By informing, educating, and communicating with people, we can all develop behavioural immunity. Matey Mandza, M.D., Ph. D., LL. M. Researcher (Drummondville CCEG) Vice-President of the Association québécoise de gérontologie (AQG)

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aqrp.ca

Why become an AQRP member? • Enjoy social and physical activities • Have access to conferences, training, web conferences, contests and blog • Benefit from a host of savings and advantages at Lobe, La Capitale insurances and many important partners (health, leisure, culture, travel, etc.)

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• Promote your rights and have access to a free telephone help service! AQRP members receive a 20%* discount on a complete hearing assessment performed by an audiologist practicing in a Lobe clinic. * Discount offered by Michèle Veilleux, audiologiste audiology services. Applicable only on a complete hearing assessment ($75 value) performed by an audiologist practicing in a Lobe clinic, excluding pediatric hearing assessments and other services. By appointment only. Cannot be combined with any other promotion. Call 1 866 411-5623 to find the nearest Lobe clinic. Offer available until December 31, 2020. Some conditions apply.

WHAT'S NEW IN THE

CLINIC?

The Beauport Lobe Clinic Has a New Home! The Beauport clinic in the Clinique médicale de Giffard has moved spaces. It’s still in the same building but has moved to suite A222. It can be accessed through Door 4. Beauport Lobe clinic

Opening of the Montreal – Notre-Dame-de-Grâce Lobe clinic The Montreal – Notre-Dame-deGrâce Lobe clinic is now open! This clinic offers ENT specialists, audiology and audioprothesis services, as well as vestibular screening. Address : 5100, boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, suite 603, Montreal Qc H4A 3T2 ENT specialists: 438 844-5542 Audiologists: 438 844-5543 Audioprosthetists: 438 844-5544

Relocation

of the Gatineau Lobe Clinic

Donnacona Lobe clinic

Opening of the Donnacona Lobe Clinic We’ve recently opened a brand new Lobe clinic in Donnacona! It offers audiology and audioprothesis services. It’s time to make an appointment!

The Gatineau Lobe clinic has officially moved. It is now located in the Clinique médicale 819. Make an appointment with an audiologist or an audioprosthetist! Address: 444, boul. de l’Hôpital, suite 110, Gatineau Qc J8T 7X6 ENT specialists: 819 243-5259 Audiologists: 819 205-7987 Audioprosthetists: 819 243-5258

Address : 499, route 138, suite 200 Donnacona Qc G3M 0A9 Audiologists: 581 821-2435 Audioprosthetists: 581 821-2434

Montréal — Notre-Dame-de-Grâce Lobe clinic

Clinique médicale 819

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ADDRESSES OF THE CAPITALE-NATIONALE NEW CLINIC

Donnacona 499, route 138, suite 200 Donnacona Qc G3M 0A9 Audiologists : 581 821-2435 Audioprosthetists: 581 821-2434 Pont-Rouge Above Familiprix drug store 69, rue du Collège, suite 203 Pont-Rouge Qc G3H 0J4 ENT specialists: 581 318-3505 Audiologists : 581 329-8476 Audioprosthetists: 581 329-840

NEW PREMISES

Québec • Beauport Clinique médicale de Giffard Les Promenades Beauport, door 4 3333, rue du Carrefour, suite A222 Québec Qc G1C 5R9 Audiologists : 418 780-6270 Audioprosthetists: 418 780-3007 Québec • Charlesbourg La Cité Médicale de Charlesbourg 8500, boul. Henri-Bourassa, suite 250 Québec Qc G1G 5X1 ENT specialists: 418 780-3015 Audiologists : 418 780-6270 Audioprosthetists: 418 780-3007 Québec • Lebourgneuf Complexe Vision 725, boul. Lebourgneuf, suite 315 Québec Qc G2J 0C4 ENT specialists: 418 780-3015 Audiologists : 418 780-6270 Audioprosthetists: 418 780-3007 Québec • Limoilou Complexe Santé Synase 1825, boul. Henri-Bourassa, suite 302 Québec Qc G1J 0H4 ENT specialists: 581 814-8901 Audiologists : 581 814-8900 Audioprosthetists: 581 814-8899 Speech-language pathologists: 581 814-8902

CLINICS

Québec • Neufchâtel Clinique médicale DuChatel 9465, boul. de l’Ormière, suite 102 Québec Qc G2B 3K7 Audiologists : 418 915-8919 Audioprosthetists: 418 843-5244 Québec • Saint-Sacrement Complexe La Cité Verte 1200, rue des Sœurs-du-Bon-Pasteur suite 310, Québec Qc G1S 0B1 ENT specialists: 581 318-2620 Audiologists : 581 742-3880 Audioprosthetists: 581 742-6050 Québec • Sainte-Foy Clinique médicale Saint-Louis 3165, chemin Saint-Louis, suite 420 Québec Qc G1W 4R4 ENT specialists: 418 781-1735 Audiologists : 418 781-1734 Audioprosthetists: 418 781-1733 Speech-language pathologists: 418 781-1734 Free parking, coupon given at the exit

Québec • Val-Bélair Polyclinique médicale Val-Bélair 1147, boul. Pie XI Nord, suite 205 Québec Qc G3K 2P8 Audiologists : 418 915-2117 Audioprosthetists: 418 915-2116 Saint-Augustin-de-Desmaures Complexe médical l’Hêtrière 3520, rue de l’Hêtrière, suite 103 Saint-Augustin-de-Desmaures Qc G3A 0B4 ENT specialists: 418 614-1665 Audiologists : 418 614-1662 Audioprosthetists: 418 614-1661 Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré Complexe Santé Côte-de-Beaupré 9745, boul. Sainte-Anne, suite 303 Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré Qc G0A 3C0 Audiologists : 581 540-3022 Audioprosthetists: 581 540-3021

Free parking, coupon given at the exit

CENTRE-DU-QUÉBEC Drummondville 110, rue Saint-Jean, suite 300 Drummondville Qc J2B 7T1 ENT specialists: 819 857-4777 Audiologists : 819 857-4666 Audioprosthetists: 819 472-7676

CHAUDIÈRE-APPALACHES Beauceville Coop santé Robert-Cliche 463-B, boul. Renault Beauceville Qc G5X 1N5 Audiologists : 581 813-3015 Audioprosthetists: 581 813-3013 Disraeli 1244, avenue Champlain Disraeli Qc G0N 1E0 Audiologists : 581 714-3051 Audioprosthetists: 581 714-3050 Lac-Etchemin Résidence Belvédère du Lac 301, rue du Sanatorium, suite 121 Lac-Etchemin Qc G0R 1S0 Audioprosthetists: 581 820-3220 Lévis Complexe Lévis 1 1655, boul. Alphonse-Desjardins, suite 210, Lévis Qc G6V 0B7 ENT specialists: 418 830-5622 Audiologists : 418 830-0987 Audioprosthetists: 418 830-5623 Lévis • Lauzon Complexe Santé Lévis-Lauzon 6750, boulevard Guillaume-Couture, suite 102, Lévis Qc G6V 9H4 Audiologists : 581 629-0414 Audioprosthetists: 581 629-0413 Lévis • Saint-Romuald Complexe Pôle Sud 1190 A, rue de Courchevel, suite 502 Lévis Qc G6W 0M5 ENT specialists: 418 903-8102 Audiologists : 418 903-8101 Audioprosthetists: 418 903-8100

Sainte-Marie • Centre médical de La Nouvelle-Beauce 774, rue Étienne-Raymond, suite 008 Sainte-Marie Qc G6E 0K6 Hearing screening: 418 387-7988 Thetford Mines Place 611 (Ameublement Carrier) 611, boul. Frontenac Est, suite 201 Thetford Mines Qc G6G 6Y7 ENT specialists: 418 755-0176 Audiologists : 418 755-0138 Audioprosthetists: 418 338-8777

ESTRIE Lac-Mégantic 6246, rue Salaberry Lac-Mégantic Qc G6B 1H8 Audiologists : 819 583-4631 Audioprosthetists: 819 583-6633 Sherbrooke Ouest Complexe de la Santé 15, rue J.-A.-Bombardier, suite A200 Sherbrooke Qc J1L 0H8 ENT specialists: 819 780-9747 Audiologists : 819 780-9746 Audioprosthetists: 819 348-4334 Sherbrooke Est Clinique médicale GMA de la Rivière 360, rue Galt Est, suite 102 Sherbrooke Qc J1G 1X9 Audiologists : 819 416-1503 Audioprosthetists: 819 416-1502 OPENING WINTER 2021

Rock Forest 5035, boul. Bourque, suite 101 Sherbrooke Qc J1N 2K6 1 866 411-LOBE (5623)

LANAUDIÈRE Notre-Dame-des-Prairies Centre professionnel des Prairies 449, route 131, suite 205 Notre-Dame-des-Prairies Qc J6E 0M1 Audiologists : 579 841-0051 Audioprosthetists: 579 841-0050 OPENING FALL 2020

Mascouche 2705, chemin Sainte-Marie, suite 102, Mascouche Qc J7K 1M8 1 866 411-LOBE (5623)

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Lévis • Saint-Jean-Chrysostome Complexe Santé Taniata 700, avenue Taniata, suite 104 Lévis Qc G6Z 2C2 Audiologists : 581 629-0409 Audioprosthetists: 581 629-0408

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Saint-Georges 14640, boul. Lacroix Saint-Georges Qc G5Y 7G8 ENT specialists: 418 228-7684 Audiologists : 418 228-7071 Audioprosthetists: 418 228-2970

Boisbriand Polyclinique 640 2000, cours Le Corbusier, suite 105 Boisbriand Qc J7G 3E8 Audiologists : 450 437-2442 Audioprosthetists: 450 437-4343

Sainte-Marie 340, boul. Vachon Sud Sainte-Marie Qc G6E 1X8 ENT specialists: 418 386-3643 Audiologists : 418 386-4426 Audioprosthetists: 418 387-7988

Mirabel Complexe Médical Cité Mirabel 11800, rue de Chaumont, suite 420 Mirabel Qc J7J 0T8 ENT specialists: 579 226-0216 Audiologists : 579 226-0215 Audioprosthetists: 579 226-0214

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LAURENTIDES

Saint-Jérôme Polyclinique Saint-Jérôme 200, rue Durand, suite 209 Saint-Jérôme Qc J7Z 7E2 ENT specialists: 450 565-9898 Audiologists : 450 592-0804 Audioprosthetists: 450 592-0801 Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts Résidence des Laurentides 107, rue Principale Est Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts Qc J8C 1J9 Audiologists : 873 228-0082 Audioprosthetists: 873 228-0081

LAVAL Laval • Chomedey Cité de l’Avenir 1575, boul. de l’Avenir, suite 120 Laval Qc H7S 2N5 Audiologists : 450 934-8362 Audioprosthetists: 450 934-2614 Laval • Chomedey 440 Carrefour Santé 440 4650, Desserte Sud Autoroute 440, suite 370, Laval Qc H7T 2Z8 ENT specialists: 450 781-4556 Audiologists : 450 687-6897 Audioprosthetists: 450 687-0255

MAURICIE Shawinigan 3222, boul. des Hêtres Shawinigan Qc G9N 3B6 Audioprosthetists: 819 539-8666 Trois-Rivières 1785, boul. du Carmel, suite 245 Trois-Rivières Qc G8Z 3R8 Audiologists : 819 415-2888 Audioprosthetists: 819 378-7477

GRAND NORD QUÉBÉCOIS

Saint-Hubert 4025, boul. Taschereau, suite 1200 Saint-Hubert Qc J4T 2G6 ENT specialists: 450 890-3788 Audiologists : 450 890-3784 Audioprosthetists: 450 890-3781 Saint-Hyacinthe Complexe médical M 1220, boul. Casavant Est, suite 104 Saint-Hyacinthe Qc J2S 0L6 Audiologists : 579 225-7265 Audioprosthetists: 579 225-7264 Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu • Secteur Saint-Gérard 600, boul. du Séminaire Nord Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu Qc J3B 7B4 ENT specialists: 450 349-9898 Audiologists : 450 349-7904 Audioprosthetists: 450 349-4343

Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu • Secteur Normandie 1055, boul. du Séminaire Nord, suite 202, Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu Qc J3A 1R7 ENT specialists: 579 296-0054 Audiologists : 579 296-0053 Audioprosthetists: 579 296-0052 Valleyfield 1020, boul. Monseigneur-Langlois, suite 200, Salaberry-de-Valleyfield Qc J6S 0M2 Audiologists : 450 747-8651 Audioprosthetists: 450 747-8652 NEW CLINIC

Vaudreuil-Dorion Complexe Santé des Trois-Lacs 65, boul. de la Cité-des-Jeunes, suite 220, Vaudreuil Qc J7V 8C1 Audiologists : 579 217-1236 Audioprosthetists: 579 217-1235

MONTRÉAL

MONTÉRÉGIE

Montréal • Angus Clinique médicale Angus 2815, rue Sherbrooke Est, suite 250 Montréal Qc H2K 1H2 Audiologists : 438 844-8134 Audioprosthetists: 438 844-8133

Châteauguay Complexe médical Châteauguay 288, boul. d’Anjou, suite 210 Châteauguay Qc J6K 1C6 ENT specialists: 450 844-6868 Audiologists : 450 844-6858 Audioprosthetists: 450 844-6848

Montréal • Lachine 2000, rue Notre-Dame, suite 203 Montréal Qc H8S 2G4 ENT specialists: 514 492-1345 Audiologists : 514 492-1344 Audioprosthetists: 514 492-1343

Longueuil 1215, ch. Du Tremblay, suite 165 Longueuil Qc J4N 1R4 ENT specialists: 450 448-4244 Audiologists : 450 448-8090 Audioprosthetists: 450 448-4544

Montréal • Notre-Dame-de-Grâce 5100, boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, suite 603, Montréal Qc H4A 3T2 ENT specialists: 438 844-5542 Audiologists ù : 438 844-5543 Audioprosthetists: 438 844-5544

Tel.: 819 378-7477

NEW CLINIC

We’re Hiring! As the Lobe clinic network is expanding, we are constantly looking for new talent to join our head office team or practice in our clinics. Visit the Career section of lobe.ca to discover our job offers and apply.

Montréal • Rosemont— La-Petite-Patrie Polyclinique Maisonneuve-Rosemont 5345, boul. de l’Assomption, suite RC-20, Montréal Qc H1T 4B3 ENT specialists: 438 384-3014 Audiologists : 438 384-3013 Audioprosthetists: 438 384-3012 Montréal • Saint-Laurent Complexe médical Saint-Laurent 1605, boul. Marcel-Laurin, suite 120 Saint-Laurent Qc H4R 0B7 ENT specialists: 514 788-7753 Audiologists : 514 788-7752 Audioprosthetists: 514 788-7751 Montréal • Saint-Léonard Les Terrasses Langelier 6383, rue Jean-Talon Est Saint-Léonard Qc H1S 3E7 Audiologists : 514 788-3738 Audioprosthetists: 514 798-0915 OPENING WINTER 2021

Montréal • Villeray Carrefour Santé Villeray 8560, rue Saint-Hubert, suite 100 Montréal Qc H2P 1Z7 ENT specialists: 1 866 411-5623 Audiologists : 1 866 411-5623 Audioprosthetists: 1 866 411-5623 Pointe-Claire Centre médical Brunswick 955, boul. Saint-Jean, suite 102 Pointe-Claire Qc H9R 5K3 ENT specialists: 514 782-0481 Audiologists : 514 782-0489 Audioprosthetists: 514 782-0482

Gatineau • Aylmer Carrefour Santé Aylmer 362, chemin d’Aylmer, suite 107 Gatineau Qc J9H 1A6 Audiologists : 819 557-3154 Audioprosthetists: 819 557-3153 Gatineau • Buckingham Coop Santé de la Basse-Lièvre 620, avenue de Buckingham Gatineau Qc J8L 2H5 Audioprosthetists: 819 243-5258 Gatineau • Hull Clinique Medigo 165, boul. Saint-Raymond, suite 213 Gatineau Qc J8Y 0A7 ENT specialists: 819 966-3280 Audiologists : 819 966-3281 Audioprosthetists: 819 966-3282 Saint-André-Avellin CLSC Petite-Nation 14, rue Saint-André Saint-André-Avellin Qc J0V 1W0 Audioprosthetists: 1 800 373-5844

HEAD OFFICE Complexe Vision 725, boul. Lebourgneuf, suite 303 Québec Qc G2J 0C4 Tel.: 418 877-7222 Audiology services offered in the clinics:

OUTAOUAIS NEW ADDRESS

Gatineau Clinique médicale 819 444, boul. de l’Hôpital, suite 110 Gatineau Qc J8T 7X6 ENT specialists: 819 243-5259 Audiologists : 819 205-7987 Audioprosthetists: 819 243-5258

BOOK AN APPOINTMENT: 1 866 411-LOBE

0-99 years, 3-99 years, 5-99 years Central Auditory Processing Disorder (CAPD) Vertigo

Vestibular screening

NEW

FREE* HEARING HEALTH CONSULTATION You have concerns about your hearing? Make an appointment for a free hearing health consultation! This service is available via videoconference, phone or in-person appointment (in a secure clinic). *Permanent offer. 18 and over.

Marie-JosĂŠe Taillefer Ambassador of Lobe clinics and of hearing health

Come and see us in a Lobe clinic!