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The dos and don’ts of caring for your hearing aids

Proper care and maintenance of your hearing aids is important. It will ensure you to get the most out of your aids, prevent problems and maintain optimum hearing conditions. Here are some guidelines to help you care for them. DO: clean your hearing aids regularly with a dry cloth or tissue. DON’T: get your hearing aids wet. That means no wearing them in the shower or when swimming. If they happen to get wet, dry it off immediately. DO: put your hearing aids in their case when you’re not using them DON’T: wear your aids when using aftershave, hairspray, perfume, sunscreen, insect repellent and so on. They contain chemicals that could damage it. Allow time for drying before putting back on hearing aids. DO: use a moisture protection kit/anti-humidity kit. They help with moisture problems (which can affect performance of hearing aids) and extend life of hearing aids. DO: keep out of reach of pets and visiting grandkids. Dogs have been known to chew them up and if swallowed by either pet or grandkid, can be very dangerous. DON’T: expose your device to extreme heats. Don’t leave them in a parked car, near a heater or wear while using a hairdryer. DO: Store your hearing aid in a safe place that's dry and cool. DON’T: leave your hearing aids switched on when you’re not using them. DO: change batteries often so you won’t be stuck with aids that have suddenly run out of power. DON’T: ever insert anything into the sound outlet as it could damage the receiver. If you can’t clean it properly, ask your hearing professional. DO: remove any earwax that gets into your hearing aid. It could cause permanent damage. Image credits: Getty Images

Hearing

"This is a tragedy": Aussie aid worker killed in Gaza identified

The identity of an Australian humanitarian worker killed in a recent airstrike in Gaza has been confirmed as Melbourne-born Lalzawmi "Zomi" Frankcom. Ms Frankcom, along with three other international aid workers and a Palestinian driver, was killed in Central Gaza while working with the World Central Kitchen (WCK) charity, with video footage posted to social media showing their bodies at Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Deir al-Balah. The group were travelling through Northern Gaza into Central Gaza when their vehicle was targeted in an airstrike, Mahmoud Thabet, a Palestinian Red Crescent paramedic, <a href="https://www.9news.com.au/world/australian-aid-worker-killed-in-airstrike-in-central-gaza/69263304-6e35-42c9-bd71-5cea880a4d2b" target="_blank" rel="noopener">told the Associated Press</a>. They had been distributing aid supplies to civilians in Northern Gaza and were returning to Central Gaza when the airstrike hit them. Staff produced the passports of three British, Australian and Polish workers who perished, with the nationality of the fourth not immediately known – however, all five were clothed in protective gear with the charity's logo on it. It is unclear why the vehicle was targeted, and the source of the strike has not been confirmed. WCK confirmed the attack with a statement: "We are aware of reports that members of the World Central Kitchen team have been killed in an IDF attack while working to support our humanitarian food delivery efforts in Gaza." "This is a tragedy. Humanitarian aid workers and civilians should NEVER be a target. EVER." Frankcom, 44, has engaged in both national and international humanitarian work, and helped provide aid to communities affected by the Blacksummer2019 bushfires in Braidwood, NSW, according to <a href="https://www.9news.com.au/world/australian-aid-worker-killed-in-airstrike-in-central-gaza/69263304-6e35-42c9-bd71-5cea880a4d2b" target="_blank" rel="noopener">9News</a>. She successfully completed a course at Harvard University focusing on Humanitarian Response to Conflict and Disaster in 2021. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese told the ABC he was concerned by the news. "I'm very concerned about the loss of life that is occurring in Gaza," he said. "My Government has supported a sustainable ceasefire, we've called for the release of hostages, and there have been far too many innocent lives – Palestinian and Israeli – lost during the Gaza Hamas conflict." Image: Supplied

Caring

How to fall asleep without sleeping pills: 7 natural sleep aids that actually work

It’s 3am and you’re suddenly wide awake. Try these seven science-backed strategies to fall back to sleep fast. Give meditation a try As a mindfulness coach, I’m very aware of the day-to-day anxieties and worries that can interfere with a good night’s sleep. One of the most effective natural sleep aids is a quick meditation session to ease yourself out of those stresses. If you’ve never meditated before, you’ll likely find the meditation interrupted by thoughts flashing through your mind. It’s important for you to know that this isn’t a failure on your part, and that you aren’t doing anything wrong. Thinking is just what the brain does, as naturally as lungs take in air. The point is to be non-judgmental yet aware of your thoughts, bodily experiences and breath, moment by moment. Sleep better, feel better! <a href="https://gaiam.innovations.com.au/p/gaiam-wellness/rollers-resistance/27-72435-gaiam-strengthen-stretch-kit?affiliate=GAIAM6O" target="_blank" rel="noopener">This Blackout Sleep Mask from Gaiam</a> will help you feel well rested and renewed. Stop wanting to fall asleep It’s counterintuitive, isn’t it? Sometimes trying too hard to do something is the very thing that prevents us from achieving it – and that’s never more true than when it comes to falling asleep. Desperately wanting to sleep will only stoke anxieties that will further stress your brain, essentially feeding it the message that it’s not safe to sleep. Throw in those worries about your to-do list at work the following day, and the whole thing can snowball into a panic attack. Try letting go of that feeling that you absolutely must sleep now, and observe your own anxieties for what they are without judgment. When you stop looking at sleep as a goal, you’ll find it easier to fall asleep. Before you climb into bed, set aside 10-15 minutes to help relax your body and mind, with <a href="https://gaiam.innovations.com.au/p/gaiam-wellness/restore-massage/27-73353-gaiam-wellness-acupressure-neck-back-pillow?affiliate=GAIAM60" target="_blank" rel="noopener">this wellness acupressure neck and back pillow from Gaiam</a>. Start a journal If you find yourself struggling to fall asleep, pick up a pen and paper (not your phone!), and start writing: simply scribble down an account of what’s going on inside your head. Although there’s no “right” way to journal, you might start by listing the events of your day, and from there, how those events and encounters made you feel. Building this structured picture of your thoughts may help you see that the problem that’s keeping you up at night, and is likely less overwhelming than you thought. Why my insistence on a pen and paper? First off, studies show the simple motor action that’s involved in the act of handwriting has a calming effect. Secondly, the light emitted by laptops and phones isn’t conducive to falling asleep. Find yourself a "3am friend" Some of us are lucky to have a ‘3am friend’, that close confidant you can call up in the wee hours knowing that they won’t hold it against you in the morning. Although it’s great to have someone to talk to when you want to fall asleep, it’s important that the conversation doesn’t just rehash the anxieties that are preventing you from catching shut-eye in the first place. Rather than using the call to seek solutions for those issues, talk about things that calm your nerves, or even have them assist you in deep breathing. It may sound silly, but doing a series of deep, relaxing breaths can help you let go of the troubles that are keeping you wide awake. Take a warm shower Taking a warm shower not only relaxes your muscles and soothes minor aches and pains, but it also raises your core body temperature. As soon as you step out of the shower, your body starts working at lowering that temperature, which is something that normally happens when you’re falling asleep naturally. (That’s why we always feel the need for a blanket when we sleep, no matter how warm it is!) By kick-starting that temperature-lowering process, you’re tricking your body into falling asleep fast. Stretch yourself to sleep Anxiety keeping you up? Research suggests mild stretching can help take the edge off and relax muscles that have become stiff and sore after a long day. We’re not talking intricate yoga poses or acrobatics here, either: Simple stretches like an overhead arm stretch and bending over to touch your toes should do the trick. Ramp up the relaxation potential with a soundtrack of ambient noise at a volume that’s just barely audible. There are plenty of white noise apps that are free to download, but soft music can work as well (so long as there are no lyrics). Just remember, if you’re using an electronic device to play these sleep-promoting sounds, make sure it’s placed screen-down so you’re not distracted by the light it emits. Stretching is healing, and this <a href="https://gaiam.innovations.com.au/p/gaiam-wellness/rollers-resistance/27-72435-gaiam-strengthen-stretch-kit?affiliate=GAIAM60" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Strengthen and Stretch Kit from Gaiam</a> is a great way to start. An on-line workout is also included to get you started. Read (or listen!) to something new When you’re struggling with insomnia, it might be tempting to pull an old favourite off the bookshelf. In reality, it’s better to read or listen to an audio book that covers a topic on which you know absolutely nothing. New information, while taking attention away from the stressors that are keeping you up at night, gives your brain enough of a workout to make it tire more quickly than when it’s engaged with familiar subjects and concepts. Again, if it’s an audio book or podcast you’re listening to, make sure the light-emitting side of the device is face down to keep the room as dark as possible. Darkness and warmth play an essential part in the production and maintenance of melatonin, the hormone that plays the central role falling asleep. Image credits: Getty Images This article by Deepak Kashyap originally appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.com.au/healthsmart/conditions/sleep/how-to-fall-asleep-without-sleeping-pills-7-natural-sleep-aids-that-actually-work" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader's Digest</a>.

Body

What if there was a hearing aid that understood your listening intentions?

<div class="page" title="Page 1"> <div class="section"> <div class="layoutArea"> <div class="column">Hearing conversations in noisy environments can be especially hard for people with impaired hearing. Unfortunately, traditional hearing aids adopt a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach to processing sounds, regardless of the listening needs of individual users. This may make listening and engaging with others more difficult. Users may also experience a lack of sound clarity and be reluctant to engage in conversations with others.</div> <div class="column"> </div> <div class="column">Hearing aid manufacturer <a href="https://www.oticon.co.nz/hearing-aid-users" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Oticon</a> is taking the next important step on the journey to solve the No.1 challenge for people with hearing loss – hearing speech in noise2. With new groundbreaking 4D Sensor technology, <a href="https://www.oticon.co.nz/hearing-aid-users/hearing-aids/products/intent" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Oticon Intent</a> is capable of understanding the user’s listening intentions by recognising what they want and need to listen to, in order to deliver truly personalised support.</div> <div class="column"> <div class="page" title="Page 1"> <div class="section"> <div class="layoutArea"> <div class="column"> </div> <div class="column">The Brain And Sound</div> <div class="column"> </div> <div class="column">Our ears gather the sounds around us, but the true hero in sound processing is the brain, as it is constantly working to make sense of sound. Oticon uses their BrainHearingTM philosophy to develop technology that provides the brain with access to the full sound environment.</div> <div class="column"> </div> <div class="column">The latest <a href="https://www.oticon.co.nz/hearing-aid-users/hearing-loss/understand-hearing-loss/how-hearing-works" target="_blank" rel="noopener">BrainHearingTM</a> insights reveal that people’s communication behaviour reflects their listening needs and intentions at a given moment via head and body movements. In conversation, users tend to keep their heads still to engage with a single person or move their heads in a group conversation to engage with different people. When struggling to hear what someone is saying, users are likely to lean in to listen.</div> <div class="column"> </div> <div class="column">The technology in Oticon Intent understands and adapts to the user through sensors that monitor head and body movements, conversation activity and the acoustic environment. Oticon Intent helps users move beyond just hearing and listening, helping them to communicate and fully engage in life.</div> <div class="column"> </div> <div class="column">Ease Of Communication</div> <div class="column"> </div> <div class="column">In challenging, noisy environments, Oticon Intent makes it possible to: <ul> <li>Move through a crowd with seamless awareness, while orienting to the surrounding sounds.</li> <li>Begin chatting with a group of people, thanks to heightened access to voices and balanced background sounds so they are not intrusive, while still accessible.</li> <li>Start an intimate conversation with one person, easily hearing the speaker’s voice amid the noise all around.</li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-50989" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2024/03/Oticon_Intent_HA_In_Hand_Hero3_KC_1321_Expires_On_2_8_2029_1280.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /> Engage More In Life “If you have a hearing loss, you can actually protect your brain from cognitive decline by using active hearing aids which enable you to connect with others and let you engage in life to the fullest,” says Thomas Behrens, Vice President of Audiology at Oticon. “You can also enjoy future-proof, next- generation connectivity technology, crafted into the smallest form factor we have designed to date within this category.” Open Up The Digital World Offering easy connection to compatible smart devices through Bluetooth® Low Energy technology, Oticon Intent also enables users to engage in the digital world like never before. It allows a detailed, high-quality sound experience for hands-free calls and delivers direct streaming of music, audio book and much more3. With up to 20 hours of battery life, users will never have to worry about running out of battery. When they need a recharge, they’d simply drop the hearing aids into the charger for just 30 minutes for up to 8 hours of battery life4. Your hearing matters. Take a step towards better hearing by contacting your nearest <a href="https://www.oticon.co.nz/hearing-aid-users/find-audiologist" target="_blank" rel="noopener">hearing care professional</a>. To explore this revolutionary hearing aid that helps users to engage in life like never before, visit <a href="https://www.oticon.co.nz/oticon-intent" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.oticon.co.nz/oticon-intent</a> For more information and to find your nearest hearing clinic, visit <a href="https://www.oticon.co.nz" target="_blank" rel="noopener">oticon.co.nz</a> *4D Sensor technology only available in Oticon Intent 1 & 2. [2.] Jorgensen, L., & Novak, M. (2020). Factors Influencing Hearing Aid Adoption. Seminars in hearing, 41(1), 6–20. [3.] Hands-free communication is available on select devices. See which hearing aids and devices are compatible here: oticon.co.nz/compatibility. [4.] Expected use time for rechargeable battery depends on use pattern, active feature set, hearing loss, sound environment, battery age and use of wireless accessories. Images: Supplied. This is a sponsored article produced in partnership with Oticon.

Hearing

The path to better hearing, today

In 1902, Princess Alexandra of Denmark, who would very soon become Queen Consort of the United Kingdom alongside King Edward VII, found herself enraptured by a fascinating new device that was fast becoming the talk of Europe. The young princess had been fitted with one of the world’s first portable electric hearing aids, and it proved to be a life-changing success. Back in Denmark, the impact of this event became a clarion call to one Hans Demant, a bicycle manufacturer and purveyor of sewing machines. His wife, Camilla, also suffered from severe hearing loss and so, after a determined journey to London, Hans returned with a precious electric “Acousticon”. Witnessing Camilla’s progress served as a source of inspiration for Hans to extend his assistance to a broader community of individuals suffering with hearing loss, and so he initiated the import of hearing devices from America. In 1904, Hans Demant founded the company that would later become known as <a href="https://www.oticon.co.nz/">Oticon</a>, a name now synonymous with cutting-edge hearing solutions, paving the way for the modern hearing aids we know today and bringing new-found joy to millions worldwide. <h3>Hearing health</h3> Hearing health is a such critical aspect of our overall well-being, yet it often goes overlooked until problems arise. In New Zealand, hearing issues affect a surprisingly large portion of the population, with a 2022 EHIMA report estimating as many as one in ten New Zealanders are living with hearing loss. Sadly, a lack of awareness can lead to irregular hear- ing check-ups, which in turn leads to delayed diagnosis and treatment. <h3><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-50616" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2023/11/miniRITE_R_H1-2023_RightLeft_C090ChromaBeige_LEDgreen_Speaker60_OpenBassDome_500pctSize_w_shadow_1280.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="642" /></h3> <h3>A new world of sounds</h3> A far cry from the bulky hearing aids of over a century ago that were hailed as a miracle in the press and transformed Queen Alexandra’s life, the pinnacle of today’s devices – such as <a href="https://www.oticon.co.nz/hearing-aid-users/hearing-aids/products/real" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Oticon Real™ hearing aids</a> – continue to change the way we experience the world of sound. With their advanced processing capabilities and state-of-the-art technology, Oticon Real can help get back the real sounds of life, precise and optimally balanced, whether it’s the laughter of grandchildren, musical notes or simply the rustling of leaves in the wind. One of the standout features of Oticon Real hearing aids is a unique technology called Deep Neural Network (DNN). This built-in intelligence has learned to recognise all types of sounds, their details, and how they should ideally sound. This means they can instantly adapt to changes, keeping you at your best wherever life takes you. By analysing and adjusting to your environment, Oticon Real hearing aids ensure that they provide what you need to hear. They do this by reducing background noise, which can help enhance speech comprehension and allow you to engage effortlessly in conversations, even in noisy settings. <h3>Connection is key</h3> In today’s digital age, connectivity is paramount, and Oticon Real hearing aids certainly rise to the challenge, offering seamless connectivity to compatible* smartphones and other Bluetooth-enabled devices. You can effortlessly stream phone calls, music and other audio directly to your hearing aids, vastly enhancing your listening experience. <h3><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-50617" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2023/11/Oticon_Real_Still_Life_miniRITE_R_Wallet_JBS_24873_1280.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="863" /></h3> <h3>Improved quality of life</h3> Perhaps the most significant benefit of Oticon Real hearing aids is their positive impact on your quality of life. Improved hearing can lead to increased social engagement, better relationships and enhanced overall well-being. With the help of Oticon Real, you can participate more actively in social gatherings, make the most of your favourite activities and feel more connected to the world around you. Oticon Real hearing aids aren’t just devices; they are a life-changing gift that allow you to reconnect with the sounds and people you love. No longer are they fit just for a queen; they are readily available to anyone with the need and the longing to be truly present for life’s most cherished moments. For more information and to find your nearest hearing clinic, visit <a href="https://www.oticon.co.nz/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">oticon.co.nz</a> *For information on hearing aid and device compatibility, visit <a href="https://www.oticon.co.nz/compatibility" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.oticon.co.nz/compatibility</a> <img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-50618" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2023/11/Oticon_Real_miniRITE_R_9_colors_lineup_1280.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="125" /> All images: Supplied. This is a sponsored article produced in partnership with Oticon.

Hearing

How satellites, radar and drones are tracking meteorites and aiding Earth’s asteroid defence

On July 31 2013 a <a href="https://cneos.jpl.nasa.gov/fireballs/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">constellation of US defence satellites</a> saw a streak of light over South Australia as a rock from outer space burned through Earth’s atmosphere on its way to crash into the ground below. The impact created an explosion equivalent to about 220 tonnes of TNT. More than 1,500km away, in Tasmania, the bang was heard by detectors normally used to listen for <a href="https://www.dfat.gov.au/international-relations/security/asno/Pages/australian-ims-stations" target="_blank" rel="noopener">extremely low-frequency sounds</a> from illegal tests of nuclear weapons. These were two excellent indications that there should be a patch of ground covered in meteorites somewhere north of Port Augusta. But how could we track them down? My colleagues and I who work on the <a href="https://dfn.gfo.rocks/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Desert Fireball Network (DFN)</a>, which tracks incoming asteroids and <a href="https://dfn.gfo.rocks/meteorites.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the resulting meteorites</a>, had a couple of ideas: weather radar and drones. Eyes in space Finding meteorites is not an easy task. There is a network of high-quality ground-based sensors called the <a href="https://gfo.rocks/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Global Fireball Observatory</a>, but it only covers about 1% of the planet. The <a href="https://cneos.jpl.nasa.gov/fireballs/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">US satellite data</a> published by NASA covers a much larger area than ground-based detectors, but it only picks up the biggest fireballs. What’s more, they <a href="https://academic.oup.com/mnras/article/483/4/5166/5256650" target="_blank" rel="noopener">don’t always give an accurate idea of the meteor’s trajectory</a>. So, to have any chance to find a meteorite from these data, you need a little outside help. Weather radars In 2019, Australia’s Bureau of Meteorology started making its weather radar data <a href="https://www.openradar.io/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">openly available</a> to researchers and the public. I saw this as an opportunity to complete the puzzle. I combed through the record of events from the Desert Fireball Network and NASA, and cross-matched them with nearby weather radars. Then I looked for unusual radar signatures that could indicate the presence of falling meteorites. <figure class="align-center zoomable"><a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/496384/original/file-20221121-22-iwtkve.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=1000&fit=clip"><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/496384/original/file-20221121-22-iwtkve.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/496384/original/file-20221121-22-iwtkve.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=334&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/496384/original/file-20221121-22-iwtkve.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=334&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/496384/original/file-20221121-22-iwtkve.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=334&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/496384/original/file-20221121-22-iwtkve.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=420&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/496384/original/file-20221121-22-iwtkve.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=420&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/496384/original/file-20221121-22-iwtkve.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=420&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" alt="An annoyed aerial photo showing the locations of the Woomera radar station and the falling meteorites." /></a><figcaption>The Woomera weather radar station captured reflections from the falling meteorites. Curtin University, Author provided</figcaption></figure> And bingo, the 2013 event was not too far from the Woomera radar station. The weather was clear, and the radar record showed some small reflections at about the right place and time. Next, I had to use the weather data to figure out how the wind would have pushed the meteorites around on their way down to Earth. If I got the calculations right, I would have a treasure map showing the location of a rich haul of meteorites. If I got them wrong, I would end up sending my team to wander around in the desert for two weeks for nothing. The search I gave what I hoped was an accurate treasure map to my colleague Andy Tomkins from Monash University. In September this year, he happened to be driving past the site on his way back from an expedition in the Nullarbor. Thankfully, Andy found the first meteorite within 10 minutes of looking. In the following two hours, his team found nine more. <figure class="align-center "><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/496385/original/file-20221121-16-he3p7h.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/496385/original/file-20221121-16-he3p7h.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=400&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/496385/original/file-20221121-16-he3p7h.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=400&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/496385/original/file-20221121-16-he3p7h.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=400&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/496385/original/file-20221121-16-he3p7h.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=503&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/496385/original/file-20221121-16-he3p7h.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=503&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/496385/original/file-20221121-16-he3p7h.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=503&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" alt="Photo of several people walking through a desert field looking at the ground." /><figcaption>A field team from Monash University searched for meteorites in the strewn field. Monash University, Author provided</figcaption></figure> The technique of finding meteorites with weather radars <a href="https://ares.jsc.nasa.gov/meteorite-falls/how-to-find-meteorites/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">was pioneered</a> by my colleague Marc Fries in the US. However, this is the first time it has been done outside the US NEXRAD radar network. (When it comes to monitoring airspace, the US has more powerful and more densely packed tech than anyone else.) This first search confirmed there were lots of meteorites on the ground. But how were we going to find them all? That’s where the drones come in. We used a method developed by my colleague Seamus Anderson to <a href="https://gfo.rocks/blog/2022/03/14/First_Meteorite_Found_with_Drone.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">automatically detect meteorites from drone images</a>. In the end we collected 44 meteorites, weighing a bit over 4kg in total. Together they form what we call a “strewn field”. <figure class="align-center zoomable"><a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/496386/original/file-20221121-13-qssltc.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=1000&fit=clip"><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/496386/original/file-20221121-13-qssltc.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/496386/original/file-20221121-13-qssltc.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=400&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/496386/original/file-20221121-13-qssltc.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=400&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/496386/original/file-20221121-13-qssltc.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=400&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/496386/original/file-20221121-13-qssltc.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=503&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/496386/original/file-20221121-13-qssltc.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=503&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/496386/original/file-20221121-13-qssltc.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=503&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" alt="An aerial view of a desert field with a black dot (a meteorite) highlighted by a yellow square." /></a><figcaption>A machine-learning algorithm identified meteorites from drone photos. Curtin Uni, Author provided</figcaption></figure> Strewn fields <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/maps.13892" target="_blank" rel="noopener">tell us a lot</a> about how an asteroid fragments in our atmosphere. That’s quite important to know, because the energy of these things is comparable to that of nuclear weapons. For example, the 17-metre asteroid that exploded over Chelyabinsk in Russia in 2013 produced an explosion 30 times the size of the bomb dropped on Hiroshima in 1945. So when the next big one is about to hit, it may be useful to predict how it will deposit its energy in our atmosphere. With new telescopes and better technology, we are starting to see some asteroids <a href="https://skymapper.anu.edu.au/news/great-balls-fire/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">before they hit Earth</a>. We will see even more when projects such as the <a href="https://www.lsst.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Vera Rubin Observatory</a> and the <a href="https://atlas.fallingstar.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (ATLAS)</a> are up and running. These systems might give us as much as a few days’ notice that an asteroid is heading for Earth. This would be too late to make any effort to deflect it – but plenty of time for preparation and damage control on the ground. The value of open data This find was only made possible by the free availability of crucial data – and the people who made it available. The US satellites that detected the fireball are presumably there to detect missile and rocket launches. However, somebody (I don’t know who) must have figured out how to publish some of the satellite data without giving away too much about their capabilities, and then lobbied hard to get the data released. Likewise, the find would not have happened without the work of Joshua Soderholm at Australia’s Bureau of Meteorology, who worked to make low-level weather radar data openly accessible for other uses. Soderholm went to the trouble to make the radar data <a href="https://www.go-fair.org/fair-principles/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">readily available and easy to use</a>, which goes well beyond the vague formulations you can read at the bottom of scientific papers like “data available upon reasonable request”. There is no shortage of fireballs to track down. Right now, we’re on the hunt for a meteorite that was spotted in space last weekend before <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2022/11/19/science/fireball-asteroid-toronto-new-york.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">blazing through the sky over Ontario, Canada</a>.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/194997/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> Writen by Hadrien Devillepoix. Republished with permission from <a href="https://theconversation.com/how-satellites-radar-and-drones-are-tracking-meteorites-and-aiding-earths-asteroid-defence-194997" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Conversation</a>. Image: NASA

Technology

What to do if your hearing aids get wet

Like most electronic devices hearing aids should be kept clear of water but if you do happen to forget to take them off before showering or jumping in the pool, here’s what you should do if your aids get wet. The first step is to switch off your hearing aids and remove the battery. Keeping a wet battery inside your aid can further damage the device so it’s best to throw out waterlogged batteries. However, if that’s not an option carefully dry the battery with a cloth. For the hearing aids, here are some home methods to drying them: <ul> <li>Shake the hearing aids with the battery compartment open to remove any excess water. Leave aids on newspaper to air dry indoors for at least a day.</li> <li>Place wet hearing aids near a lamp can speed up drying process, but do not place too close to light bulb as too much heat can damaged the device.</li> <li>Stick hearing aids into a container of uncooked rice or silica gel. Seal container and leave overnight. Both rice and silica gel can work as a dehumidifier and soak up water.</li> <li>Use a fan or hairdryer on the lowest setting. Only use hairdryer if it has a “cool” setting.</li> <li>Do not ever use high heat to dry the aids like an oven or microwave.</li> </ul> If the above suggestions do not work, contact your hearing aid provider. Your hearing aids aren’t necessarily damaged beyond repair and your hearing aid provider can talk to you about options. Image: Getty Images

Hearing

10 items you MUST carry in your travel medical kit

Health concerns are the last thing you want to be dealing with when on holidays, but unfortunately accidents can still happen when we are travelling. This is why a travel medical kit is one of the most important things you will pack. From simple first aid measures to equipment that will help you in instances where something more serious is occurring, a well-stocked travel medical kit is the hallmark of every sensible traveller. Here are 10 items you must include in your travel medical kit. We’ve also included some additional tips at the bottom of the article. 1. Adhesive dressings (Band-Aids) – When travelling we’re particularly susceptible to minor cuts. Adhesive dressings ensure these nicks and scrapes don’t get infected. 2. Antihistamine – These are essential, especially if you’re someone who suffers from allergies, as they allow you to control allergic reactions in foreign environments. 3. Bandages – Use bandages to create support structures for strained limbs, reduce swellings, hold dressings in place, and even as a makeshift sling. 4. Instant cold pack – These handy devices are especially useful when it comes time to deal with any swelling issues or untoward skin reactions encountered abroad. 5. Antibacterial gel – If you’re in a situation when you need a pair of clean hands, antibacterial gel makes it possible without the need of water access. 6. Oral rehydration salts – Dehydration can quickly turn into a big issues overseas, so having a few oral rehydration salts on hand can get you out of a serious bind. 7. Safety pins – The practicality of safety pins knows no bounds, especially if you find yourself in a situation where you need to keep bandages or slings in place. 8. Thermal blanket – In an emergency situation a thermal blanket can help control body temperature and ultimately avoid the likelihood of someone going into shock. 9. Thermometer – It’s also quite useful to have a thermometer at hand just in case. Go for a digital design that’s easier to read in an emergency situation. 10. Tweezers – If you ever need to remove splinters when you’re overseas or do running repairs to adhesive dressings, a pair of tweezers becomes quite useful. Additional tips and pointers: <ul> <li>Keep you travel medical kit in a dry, cool storage location if possible.</li> <li>Make sure it’s in an easily accessible part of your suitcase or backpack, and make sure everyone you are travelling with knows where to find it.</li> <li>Before you head off, double check the contents of your kit ensuring any creams are up to date, bandages and dressings are properly sealed and all items are working properly.</li> </ul> Related links: <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/travel-tips/2016/03/teen-saves-flying-sheffield-to-essex-via-germany/">Teen saves money by flying from Sheffield to Essex via Germany</a> <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/travel-tips/2016/05/controversial-idea-to-shorten-airport-queues/">Controversial idea to shorten airport queues</a> <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/travel-tips/2016/05/5-ways-to-avoid-being-stuck-in-the-middle-seat/">5 ways to avoid the middle seat on planes</a>

Domestic Travel

Albanese announces $100 million in military aid for Ukraine, pledging support for ‘as long as it takes’

Australia has given Ukraine another $A100 million in military aid, and Anthony Albanese has pledged Australia will continue support for the embattled country “for as long as it takes for Ukraine to emerge victorious”. Albanese inspected devastated areas in and around the capital Kyiv, going to the towns of Bucha, Irpin, and Hostomel, and met President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during a visit that winds up his trip to Europe. But he did not say when Australia might reopen its embassy in the war-torn country. He has indicated Australia wants to do so as soon as possible, depending on security advice. Albanese, who travelled by train from Poland into Ukraine, met with Zelenskyy for two hours on Sunday, and they held a joint news conference. The latest military aid brings to about $388 million Australia’s total military assistance to Ukraine. Australia is the largest non-NATO contributor to Ukraine’s defence. The new package includes: <ul> <li> miliitary aid worth $99.5 million including 14 armoured personnel carriers, 20 Bushmaster protected mobility vehicles and other equipment supplied by Australia’s defence industry, plus a contribution to NATO’s Ukraine assistance fund </li> <li> $8.7 million to help upgrade border management equipment, improve cyber security and enhance border operations </li> <li> duty free access for Ukrainian imports to Australia, complementing similar trade measures taken by other countries </li> <li> Australian intervention at the International Court of Justice to support Ukraine’s case against Russia </li> <li> financial sanctions and travel bans on 16 more Russian ministers and oligarchs </li> <li> prohibition of imports of Russian gold to Australia – again in line with partner countries. </li> </ul> “Russia’s brutal invasion is a gross violation of international law,” said Albanese. “I saw first-hand the devastation and trauma it has inflicted on the people of Ukraine.” “My visit to Kyiv and recent visits by other world leaders sends a clear message that democratic nations like Australia will stand side-by-side with the Ukrainian people in their time of need. "President Zelenskyy’s leadership has rallied the Ukrainian people to defend their country and inspired the world to support humanity and freedom. The road ahead is hard but I am confident Ukraine will prevail.” The prime minister described Ukraine as fighting for the international rule of law. “We saw residential buildings that have been the subject of brutal assault from missiles and other weapons,” he said. “Clearly civilian areas have been targeted by Russian forces as part of this illegal and amoral war.” This article originally appeared on <a href="https://theconversation.com/albanese-announces-100-million-in-military-aid-for-ukraine-pledging-support-for-as-long-as-it-takes-186291" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Conversation</a>. Images: Twitter

International Travel

Revealed: Australia’s most trusted brands for 2022

Celebrating its 100th year as a global brand, Reader’s Digest has announced the Most Trusted Brands in Australia in its annual survey – and the results even include ANOTHER brand celebrating 100 years! In 2022, Cadbury, certainly one of Australia’s iconic brands, also marks its 100th year – and as winner of the Most Trusted Confectionary Brand for 16 of the past 17 years in the <a href="https://www.trustedbrands.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader’s Digest Trusted Brand</a> survey, Australians clearly believe its chocolates consistently taste amazing. The award-winning brands that appear in the Reader’s Digest 23rd annual survey have stood out among their competitors during the most challenging of times throughout the pandemic, and have continued to build their customers’ trust. “Trust in consumer brands takes years of careful planning, execution and nurturing,” says Reader’s Digest editor-in-chief, Louise Waterson. “But during challenging times, and the past year has been one of the most difficult on record, we’ve seen quality brands live up to their promises to their customers. These brands have been able to win and retain the trust of their customers.” The Trusted Brands survey covers a comprehensive range of products and services across 75 categories, including the new Residential Aged Care category, spanning the separate NSW, QLD, SA, VIC and WA markets. Brands included in the list to be rated were generated by asking local Australian consumers for their most trusted brands. This question was unprompted to ensure the rating of top brands in each category, as selected by Australians. Each respondent was asked score each brand out of ten, as well as providing comments on their most trusted brand within each category – providing key drivers of trust for consumers. Each category contains one Winner, and two Highly Commended brands. These brands scored higher in their respective categories than the other brands polled. The top 20 winners – that scored higher in their respective categories than the other brands polled – are as follows: Top 20 Trusted Brands of all brands surveyed <ul> <li>1 Dettol </li> <li>2 Band-Aid </li> <li>3 Bunnings Warehouse </li> <li>4 Cadbury </li> <li>5 Woolworths </li> <li>6 Dulux </li> <li>7 Dyson </li> <li>8 Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia </li> <li>9 Cancer Council </li> <li>10 Panadol </li> <li>11 Glen 20</li> <li>12 Twinings</li> <li>13 Bega Cheese</li> <li>14 Dairy Farmers</li> <li>15 Toyota</li> <li>16 Westinghouse</li> <li>17 Bridgestone</li> <li>18 Finish</li> <li>19 Vicks</li> <li>20 Weber</li> </ul> Under each category one winner and two highly commended placings were awarded. To find out who you can officially trust, see the full results of all 75 categories in the May edition of Reader’s Digest or visit <a href="https://www.trustedbrands.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.trustedbrands.com.au</a>

Money & Banking

Morphée review: Will this tiny device help you sleep better?

Sleep is a necessity so often sacrificed, and quality sleep is so hard to achieve when we need it most. As we get older, getting enough sleep is still important, with the <a href="https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/good-nights-sleep#aging" target="_blank" rel="noopener">National Institute of Ageing</a> recommending that older adults still aim to get between seven and nine hours of sleep. However, pain, certain medications, feeling sick, stress from daily life (or <a href="https://health.clevelandclinic.org/covid-19-insomnia-tips/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">living through a global pandemic</a>) and even conditions such as Alzheimer’s can affect the quality and quantity of sleep we get each night. This is where sleeping aids such as the Morphée have come in. The tiny sleep aid has quickly grown in popularity within its home country of France and 12 other countries, including Australia - which is no surprise considering how many have reported sleeping poorly during the last two years. As one of those people who has experienced poorer sleep lately, I gave the Morphée a try to see how it stacks up. So many choices, so little time Encased in a beech wooden case (which also makes for a handy stand), the Morphée offers over 200 guided sessions to choose from and makes for an aesthetically pleasing addition to the bedside table. The three brass keys allow you to choose one of the sessions from eight modes (from guided meditations to quiet music), eight different options in each mode, and whether it runs for eight or 20 minutes. <img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/03/morphee2.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /> Image: Matt O’Rourke You can even choose to be guided by a male or female voice, and start, stop and control the volume of the session from several buttons and switches along the side of the device. If guided meditation isn’t really your thing, the nature soundscapes and selection of music are soothing and varied enough so that you have plenty of choice. The fact that each sound comes from a different location around the world is also a nice touch - the Swedish log fire and purring Burmese cat in a Parisian apartment were definitely my favourites. Does it work? Having tried the Morphée on my own and with my partner, who also struggles to get to sleep, I can say it largely works, but that it involves a decent amount of trial and error. We began with the nature sounds ahead of a mid-afternoon nap, and found that it helped us get to sleep more easily. My partner noted it was easier to focus on the sounds rather than attempt to drift off in silence, and that before he knew it, he was asleep. Next, I tried the specific nap setting with the hope of re-energising with a quick power nap after work. Starting with a four-minute relaxation period, with a soothing voice helping to focus on breathing and sinking into the bed, you can choose between an eight and 20-minute silent nap session ending with nature sounds to wake you up. Initially, I found it hard to focus, but after just a few minutes I was ready to fall asleep. Since I’m a heavy sleeper that only the loudest of alarms can wake, the gentle sounds of nature failed to wake me up, and my 20 minute nap became closer to an hour-long one. With that in mind, having longer napping options and different wake-up settings to choose from might be a good addition for heavy snoozers like me. The same night, we tried a body scan with a visualisation exercise. Unlike other body scans, which draw your attention to various areas of the body, this particular one leaned more towards breathing and visualising a mountain scene. I still found it quite relaxing and that it helped me wind down for the night, but my partner ended up feeling significantly worse than when he got into bed - an experience shared by about <a href="https://www.newscientist.com/article/2251840-mindfulness-and-meditation-can-worsen-depression-and-anxiety/">one in 12</a> people who try mindfulness meditation and particularly by those <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/au/blog/choosing-your-meditation-style/202006/trauma-informed-mindfulness" target="_blank" rel="noopener">who are trauma survivors</a>. So overall, the modes I tried were successful and have left me looking forward to testing the rest, while my partner enjoyed the nature soundscapes and music, but will steer clear of the body scans and other modes with vocal guidance. Sound quality and other notes Although intended for helping you drift to sleep, I found the Morphée was also quite effective as background noise during the day while working or settling in with a good book. Though more of a nitpick than an outright con, the sound was rather tinny when I was using the Morphée’s speakers. Luckily this is only a short-lived problem while you’re falling asleep. Meanwhile, using wired headphones was a whole different situation, and was particularly immersive for the nature sounds. <img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/03/morphee1.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /> Image: Matt O’Rourke However, the totally analog technology means that Bluetooth earphones won’t be compatible. I found this made using the Morphée slightly daunting, as I was worried I would fall asleep while listening and run the risk of being tangled up in my headphones. Final verdict Retailing at $149, the Morphée initially feels like a pricey purchase. But after giving it a try, seeing how many options it offers, and its absence of bright screens, it feels like an investment that will be worth it over time, especially when it’s priced similarly to yearly subscriptions for popular apps such as Headspace and Calm. Though it might not be a cure for sleep problems, it works as a tool to help you relax and be more mindful before bed, all while enjoying a better night’s sleep. In summary, here are some pros and cons to consider if you’re looking to try the Morphée for yourself or gift it to someone else: Pros <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> Portable and handy protective cover/stand </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> Beautiful and functional design </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> Plenty of sounds and modes to choose from </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> Excellent battery life, helped by the fact it turns itself off </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> Can be used for more than just sleeping </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> Sounds amazing with headphones </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> Makes for a great gift for the poor sleepers in your life </li> </ul> Cons <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> The tiny buttons and text might be a challenge for some </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> Sound is slightly tinny </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> A setting longer than 20 minutes would be a nice bonus </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> Difficult to fall asleep if using wired headphones </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> Not compatible with Bluetooth or wireless headphones </li> </ul> The <a href="https://www.morphee.co/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Morphée</a> is available to purchase from Officeworks, JB Hi-Fi, Amazon AU, and Temple & Webster for $149. Unfortunately, the Morphée isn’t available in New Zealand yet, but here’s hoping that will change soon. Image: Supplied

Technology

“I regained my confidence socially and professionally”: Why Hearing Australia is promising to make hearing easy this World Hearing Day

When Rachel, a music teacher and professional clarinet player, first noticed changes in her hearing it was pretty daunting. “Sound is everything to a musician,” she explains. Rachel had become increasingly aware of “difficulty in conversations, especially in crowded situations or noisy rooms. Professionally I had great difficulty hearing students speak.” New findings from Hearing Australia’s ‘Hearing Road Test’ survey of Australians indicate that Rachel is not alone. Older Australians have become more aware of changes and symptoms of hearing loss during the last 12 – 24 months of the pandemic. Despite this, only one in four respondents have had their hearing checked in the last year; 78% of older Australians agreed that they would be more inclined to seek help for their hearing if they knew they could trial their hearings aids at home before they made a purchase. However, most respondents didn’t know that this was possible. For Rachel, however, it was the way her Hearing Australia audiologist Kristen was in tune with her life from the very start that made her hearing easy. From her initial hearing assessment and fitting when “Kristen’s bright and cheery personality took the stress out of the situation”, to all of the ongoing support she has since received, Rachel says that Hearing Australia makes her “feel safe and secure”. For Kristen, an audiologist and fellow musician, that’s music to her ears: “As a musician, your hearing is a big deal and so for Rachel to entrust me with her care makes me feel very privileged.” Fellow Hearing Australia audiologist Marc Vandenberg agrees. “Managing your hearing can improve quality of life, and Hearing Australia promises to make hearing easy,” he says. “We know that choosing a hearing aid is a personal decision and not something you can do on the spot. To help find the right solution, Australians are now able to ‘try before you buy’ on any of our hearing devices for 14 days*. “This means you can take your device home and test drive it in your everyday life to see how it performs, when you are catching up with loved ones, going shopping or watching TV.” This World Hearing Day, it’s time to manage your hearing your way. Test drive your hearing aids today to find your fit. For more information and to book a hearing test, call Hearing Australia on 134 HEAR or visit <a href="https://www.hearing.com.au/We-make-hearing-easy?utm_source=fabulate&utm_medium=native&utm_campaign=world+hearing+day" target="_blank" rel="noopener">hearing.com.au</a>. * ”Try before you buy” requires you to complete a hearing assessment (which may incur a fee) before fitting, and is subject to Hearing Australia’s "Try before you buy" conditions. Conditions apply under the Australian Government Hearing Services Program. Client statements are their own, Rachel received a thank you gift for her time. This is a sponsored article produced in partnership with <a href="https://www.hearing.com.au/We-make-hearing-easy?utm_source=fabulate&utm_medium=native&utm_campaign=world+hearing+day" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hearing Australia</a>.

Hearing

Status Quo baffled by popularity of classic hit

Status Quo are completely baffled by the enduring popularity of their hit track Rockin’ All Over The World. The band covered John Fogerty’s track in 1977, and despite the song also being covered by legends such as Bon Jovi, Coldplay and Bruce Springsteen, Status Quo’s version is viewed as the ultimate cover. The song has also become known as one of the band’s most popular anthems, which has long confused the British rockers. Singer and guitarist Francis Rossi said, “I don’t know why ours has become this classic ‘raaaawk’ song. We played [a] Sweden Rock festival and all these people dressed head to toe in black were in front of the stage going, ‘This is great!’ I’m looking at them going, ‘What the f*** are you thinking?’…”“F**k me, even my dental hygienist sent me something the other day to say they were all singing it at some wedding reception.”The band’s late guitarist Rick Parfitt originally brought the track to their bandmates, who were sceptical at the idea of a cover song. Francis recalled, “It sounded a bit piddly, to be honest."“But me and Rick used to joke that we could Quo-up anything with a guitar on it. So that’s what we did…”“Our old fans hated it. We had so much mail going, ‘What the f*** is this?’ But that song brought in loads more new fans.”Despite the song seemingly dividing fans, Francis said he has fond memories of kicking off Live Aid in 1985 with the track.He told Classic Rock magazine, “Nobody wanted to go on first, so we went, ‘F*** it, we’ll do it.”“But when we started playing that song, there was a total sense of euphoria. Everything slotted in. The sense of love from the audience was something else.”Image credits: Getty Images

Music

“Don’t touch the bag”: Former Obama staff member reprimanded by Queen’s aid

Barack Obama’s former Chief of Protocol has revealed the extreme lengths Queen’s staff go to in order to protect her privacy. Capricia Penavic Marshall worked for former President Obama from 2009 to 2013 and her role meant she advised him on all matters of national and international diplomatic protocol. She also recalled to <a rel="noopener" href="https://people.com/politics/capricia-penavic-marshall-new-book-remembers-trying-take-queen-elizabeth-purse/" target="_blank">People</a> the embarrassing moment she was scolded for trying to help the royal with her purse during an official visit to Buckingham Palace in 2011. After stepping forward to assist the Queen with her bag so that she could greet the Obamas without it, Marshall, 56, says her British counterpart quickly pushed her back and told her simply: “We do not touch the bag.” <img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7836673/queen.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/79d44520f5384eb18817bb6ddbc449b6" /> Michelle Obama, Barack Obama, Queen Elizabeth. “As Her Majesty walked out, I made a comment to my counterpart. I said, ‘Oh, my goodness, Her Majesty has her bag.’ And I made an ever so slight move with my left foot,” she recalled. “He, with both of his hands, pushed me back against the wall and said, ‘Do not touch the bag,’ and I said, ‘Oh, my goodness. I'm so sorry.’” The unnamed royal staffer reiterated his point again, saying no one was to ever touch the Queen’s bag. “He goes, ‘We do not touch the bag.’ And I said, ‘Okay, I apologize. I would never. But do we know what's in the bag?’ And he said, ‘We don't know what's in the bag. But we never touch the bag,'” she revealed. <img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7836672/queen-1.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/fb25d221d26e4870a22bd919086447da" /> Capricia Penavic Marshall In Marshall’s new book, Protocol: The Power of Diplomacy and How to Make It Work for You, she said she actually learned Her Majesty actually uses her bag as a means of signalling to her staff. “If it's on one part of her arm, it means the meeting is going fine, leave me alone. But if she lowers it, it means, ‘End this now. I want to go,'” Marshall explained. Despite the awkward moment that could have gone terrible wrong, Marshall says the visit was a huge success and noted that the former President Obama and his wife Michelle were “so, so very fond” of the royal.

International Travel

Why you shouldn’t delay in getting your hearing tested

While COVID-19 restrictions caused life as we know it to change drastically, many industries quickly adjusted to the new normal - and that was especially true of hearing aid companies. Hearing specialists knew that many of their customers would be wary or even unable to get to an appointment, so have adjusted accordingly. From sanitised stores to video check-ups, it’s meant those who need hearing help can still get it. Now restrictions are slowly being lifted, it’s a good time to get your hearing checked out - especially if you’ve been putting it off over the autumn. Companies like <a rel="noopener" href="https://hearingaidfinder.com.au/?utm_source=directgroup&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=over60-advertorial-hearing-tests-still-available" target="_blank">Hearing Aid Finder </a>can help you book an appointment, taking away the hassle of doing the research yourself. Free tests and financial assistance for hearing devices The good news for Australian pensioners is that hearing tests are free and <a href="http://hearingservices.gov.au/wps/portal/hso/site/eligibility/programhelp/eligibility/!ut/p/a1/pZFLb8IwEIT_Cj3kaPmRlzlaFGiggKq-klyQE5zEbWKH1EXk3-NIPXApFHVvK41mZ-eDKYxhqvhBltxIrXg97GmwXT75AY4QWdK3zQwxtn59XMw8ghiG7zCFaa5MayqYVF96lGtlhDIOar-zWuYOqnQjHFTobiQOouu1slvb6bLjTSXq1kGilqXMZC1NP5i1udzBxHP93RiTDAgvLICHMAfUpwLsCC7GoRsEbhDadIlNh34Zhv4U_oIE-T-CCycSmyHcEnrPHsYejjbTaIrYZP6ymNOIzEMMn2986opheLPh4loNtkbSrSar0tpyUwGpCg3jM0YwPmdk5fJjv0-ZBT_APhoY_5982zTU7cFnsV4DntH-6Cd3JwKtaBE!/dl5/d5/L2dBISEvZ0FBIS9nQSEh/">eligible seniors</a> can get government assistance to help with the cost of a new device. Even if you’re not eligible for a government voucher, it’s worth checking if your private health fund extras will cover the cost of a hearing aid. So if you’re thinking about a test, it’s worth booking one sooner rather than later. Don’t wait for everything to reopen and risk your local hearing specialist being booked out. You can book an appointment via <a rel="noopener" href="https://hearingaidfinder.com.au/?utm_source=directgroup&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=over60-advertorial-hearing-tests-still-available" target="_blank">Hearing Aid Finder</a> today. Increasing safety at hearing aid tests Hearing specialists have been putting in special measures to ensure your safety. Stores are regularly sterilised, with longer gaps between appointments to allow time to clean. There’s also a limit on the number of people who can be in store at any given time. Companies like <a href="https://www.bloomhearing.com.au/en-au/news/coronavirus">Bloom</a> and <a href="https://www.ihear.com.au/blog/">ihear</a> are also conducting initial appointments over the phone. This will speed up the next step where, if necessary, you’ll head into the clinic for a hearing test. If you’re self-isolating or have mobility problems and are unable to leave your home, many clinicians will offer solutions, all the way from home visits through to fitting hearing aids remotely over telehealth, or leaving you an iPad with instructions on how to fit your new device. Go with the hearing experts <a rel="noopener" href="https://hearingaidfinder.com.au/?utm_source=directgroup&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=over60-advertorial-hearing-tests-still-available" target="_blank">Hearing Aid Finder</a> makes your life easy. You’ll get a free hearing screening from a professional audiologist near you, and enjoy no-obligation trials on hearing aids so you can find a device that’s right for you. So if you’re ready to book your hearing test before life gets busy again, <a rel="noopener" href="https://hearingaidfinder.com.au/?utm_source=directgroup&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=over60-advertorial-hearing-tests-still-available" target="_blank">schedule an appointment today</a>. This is a sponsored article built in conjunction with <a rel="noopener" href="https://hearingaidfinder.com.au/?utm_source=directgroup&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=over60-advertorial-hearing-tests-still-available" target="_blank">Hearing Aid Finder</a>.

Hearing

Survey reveals the brands Aussies trust the most

The coronavirus pandemic is forcing change, and that includes the trust that people have in brands. In the 21st annual list of Australia’s Most Trusted Brands, the list identifies the brands that we have faith in and the innovative ways brands are responding to new issues. The independently conducted survey has polled a cross-section of more than 3,000 people, to name the most-trusted brands across more than 70 leading consumer categories. Not only were the Most Trusted Brands polled, Our most-trusted professions have also been polled, and the results appear exclusively in the latest issue of Australian Reader's Digest. The key findings shown by an independent poll concluded: <ul> <li>Band-Aid is Australia’s overall most trusted brand</li> <li>Vegemite is Australia’s ‘Most Iconic’ brand</li> <li>Guide Dogs is Australia’s most trusted charity</li> <li>Healthcare workers (Doctors, nurses, paramedics) top ‘Most Trusted Professions’</li> </ul> Reader’s Digest editor-in-chief Louise Waterson said: “While COVID-19 has certainly changed the marketplace, and the way we go about being consumers, other things remain the same when it comes to our relationships with brands. “For the brands themselves, trust matters when it comes to weathering a crisis, and ultimately trust is built on the traditional foundations of quality, consistency, honesty and delivering on your promise. “In terms of this current situation, with this pandemic, that also means getting proactive and reaching out to your customers like never before. It’s very much about maintaining a relationship with that particular individual.” How a brand is likely to be voted as a Trusted Brand There are many things a brand can do in order to be voted as a Trusted Brand, but the main message is to be reassuring, reliable, consistent, and offer value for money as these are the common traits shared by brands that Australians trust. Another beneficial tip is to respond well in a crisis, which has been shown by many brands in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. We’re seeing brands that are on the frontline supporting customers with their concerns, advising how to get help, and reassuring them in a very personal way. With Dettol (3) upping its communications on how to kill germs in our homes, Qantas (7) flying in our stranded family members home from overseas and Toyota (19) keeping their service centres open to make sure that Australians still have reliable vehicles, brands are expected to support customers with their concerns and offer reassurance during this crisis. Other brands are striving for consistency and innovation, which helps brands remain in the top spot. Winner of this year’s Iconic Brand, Vegemite (16) has a range of fun and delicious recipes to help with the boredom of being at home during a pandemic on their website. This year, Trusted Brands Australia has also included the 'Most Trusted Professions', which saw doctors take out the top spot, with nurses and paramedics quickly following behind in second and third place. Unlike amateur experts or celebrities motivated to increasing their own popularity, doctors stick to the observable facts, they avoid controversy and are the calm protectors we all turn to when we and our families are feeling most vulnerable. Together with paramedics and nurses, who came in 2nd and 3rd, these professions are the real deal. Australia’s top 20 most trusted brands – across all categories are: <ol start="1" type="1"> <li>Band-Aid</li> <li>Energizer</li> <li>Dettol</li> <li>Colgate</li> <li>Dyson</li> <li>Cadbury</li> <li>Qantas</li> <li>Dulux</li> <li>Finish</li> <li>Sanitarium Weet-Bix</li> <li>Weber</li> <li>Panadol</li> <li>Cancer Council Sunscreen</li> <li>Bega Cheese</li> <li>Bridgestone</li> <li>Vegemite</li> <li>Aerogard</li> <li>Bunnings</li> <li>Toyota</li> <li>Victa</li> </ol> Check out the full results at <a id="LPlnk469183" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="http://www.trustedbrands.com.au/" target="_blank">www.trustedbrands.com.au</a>

Money & Banking

Good people break bad laws: Rough sleepers

In terms of the law, people who are forced to sleep out on the streets are already on the wrong side of it, seemingly because they have no fixed address. Indeed, the <a href="https://www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/community/community-support/homelessness/street-count">334 rough sleepers</a> counted in the City of Sydney last month are simply criminalised by default. Sleeping rough can guarantee intensified policing. Being moved on can get to be a part of daily life. Places where the homeless are camping together can be busted up. And even having a drink can be problematic, as consuming alcohol in the park or on the street is often a crime. It’s not like things are getting any better either. Recent years saw then Melbourne lord mayor Robert Doyle move to ban sleeping rough in his city <a href="https://www.sydneycriminallawyers.com.au/blog/nsw-premier-broadens-police-powers-to-remove-the-homeless/">in early 2017</a>. The plan <a href="https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/violation-of-human-rights-un-condemns-melbournes-homeless-camping-ban-20170314-guxkld.html">was eventually</a> dropped after United Nations condemnation. And after a <a href="https://www.sydneycriminallawyers.com.au/blog/premier-demands-that-council-moves-on-martin-place-rough-sleepers/">very public tit for tat</a> between the NSW government and the City of Sydney over responsibility for the Martin Place Tent City, the Berejiklian government decided to rush through new laws that forced the rough sleepers to vacate the public square. RMIT homelessness professor Guy Johnson explains that people sleeping outside only make up <a href="https://www.sydneycriminallawyers.com.au/blog/the-homelessness-crisis-an-interview-with-rmit-professor-guy-johnson/">about 20 percent</a> of the overall homeless population. But, while they may not be the majority, they’re certainly bearing the brunt of a society that treats they’re circumstances as criminal. Pushing them out “The City of Sydney has unambiguously had a policy since the mid-90s of trying to move homeless people out,” said frontline homelessness advocate Lanz Priestley. “There’s no consideration for Sydney to house homeless people, other than a token solution.” “They tend to point to housing estates somewhere else, whether that be the traditional estates or the community model, which is problematic in itself,” he told Sydney Criminal Lawyers. The City of Sydney website sets out that it’s <a href="https://www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/community/community-support/homelessness/street-count">the only council in NSW</a> to run a specialist homelessness unit, which was launched in 1984. Operating on a 7 days a week basis, the homelessness unit <a href="https://news.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/articles/reducing-rough-sleeping-in-the-city">aims to reduce</a> rough sleeping by putting those on the street in touch with the right services and support. However, according to Priestley, the purpose of the homelessness unit is to manage rough sleepers in the local government area in response to issues raised by ratepayers. And there’s no consultation with the actual people doing it rough. “They’re doing it in consultation with the poverty industry,” Mr Priestley continued. “They’re doing it in consultation with a whole lot of other external groups, without asking homeless people what the solutions are that they want.” Moving them on The NSW government introduced the <a href="https://www.homelessnessnsw.org.au/sites/homelessnessnsw/files/2016-12/TheProtocol_Factsheet.PDF">Protocol for Homeless People in Public Places</a> in 2000. It sets out that homeless people have the same rights as all citizens in public places, and government organisations, including the NSW Police Force, should treat them accordingly. But, as Priestley puts it, “that doesn’t mean it always happens”. And when asked about laws that impinge upon homeless people unfairly, he pointed to move on powers, which were introduced <a href="https://research-repository.griffith.edu.au/bitstream/handle/10072/49245/78970_1.pdf%3Bsequence=1">in the 1990s</a>. <a href="http://www7.austlii.edu.au/cgi-bin/viewdoc/au/legis/nsw/consol_act/leara2002451/s197.html">Section 197</a> of the Law Enforcement (Powers and Responsibilities) Act 2002 (NSW) (the LEPRA) provides police with the power to direct people to move on in public places if an officer believes on reasonable grounds that the person is obstructing, harassing, intimidating or causing fear to others, or they’re supplying or buying prohibited drugs. And <a href="http://www7.austlii.edu.au/cgi-bin/viewdoc/au/legis/nsw/consol_act/leara2002451/s199.html">section 199</a> of the LEPRA provides that an individual who refuses to comply with such an order can be fined $220. Word from the street As Priestley tells it, move on orders were first used in the late 90s to deal with homeless people sleeping in the lanes around Woolloomooloo’s Matthew Talbot Hostel in an effort to move the rough sleepers out of the city centre. “Cops would go up to them and say, “move on”. The guy would go to pick up his gear and be arrested for failing to follow a move on order,” Priestley explained. “They were given a court date two years down the track, and a 10 kilometre exclusion from the Matthew Talbot”, as part of their bail. “The effect of that was that without going to court, they excluded these people who were getting these move on orders from the city,” he added. Other tricks of the trade that Priestley recalls are <a href="https://www.sydneycriminallawyers.com.au/blog/police-officer-charged-with-murder/">NSW police officers</a> repeatedly searching homeless people at Central’s Belmore Park until they’d leave for good, along with people being held on remand for a longer period of time than the maximum penalties that applied to the minor charges they were facing, only to have the prosecution drop them after they’d served the time. Pushing them along Mr Priestley founded the Martin Place Tent City <a href="https://www.sydneycriminallawyers.com.au/blog/sydneys-24-7-street-kitchen-and-safe-space-an-interview-with-lanz-priestley/">in late 2016</a>. Initially, it was in response to women sleeping on the street reporting that they didn’t feel safe, and that men had been trying to sexually assault them. The setup provided a secure place for the homeless to spend the night and get a meal. By August 2017, Tent City numbers had swelled and NSW premier Gladys Berejiklian had <a href="https://www.sydneycriminallawyers.com.au/blog/premier-demands-that-council-moves-on-martin-place-rough-sleepers/">complained</a> that the rough sleepers made her feel “completely uncomfortable”. So, her government decided to rush through new move on powers to get rid of them. The aim of the <a href="https://www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/bill/files/3421/Passed%20by%20both%20Houses.pdf">Sydney Public Reserves (Public Safety) Bill 2017</a> (NSW) was “to deal with an occupation of a public reserve in the City of Sydney that interferes with the reasonable enjoyment of the rights of the public or that is unlawful and, in particular, to deal with the unauthorised camp site at Martin Place”. “My reaction then and now remains that it’s an absolute shame that as a kneejerk reaction, they could pass laws like that with such haste,” Priestley said, “instead of passing laws that solve homelessness.” The new laws enabled police to move on people deemed to be hindering the enjoyment of others in a public reserve, as well as seize their belongings. Failure to comply with such an order can result in a $220 fine and trying to prevent officers from taking one’s belongings incurs a fine of $2,200. And facing these enhanced laws, the rough sleepers left Martin Place, prior to NSW police moving in. Preventative measures Mr Priestley relates that at present, he’s been seeing a different cohort of rough sleepers on the city streets. These are people who only find themselves without a home for short periods of time – usually under six weeks – before they sort their issues out and are back off the streets. The long-term social justice activist is still running his street kitchen once a fortnight in Martin Place. And for every other night, there are different groups doing the same. And as for the issue of homeless people in this state, he advises that authorities should be looking at the bigger picture, rather than “parking the ambulance at the bottom of the cliff”, there should be moves to stop people becoming homeless in the first place. “We need to work towards a point in time when there’s not the possibility of becoming homeless,” the unofficial mayor of Martin Place concluded. “And I don’t think it’s an impossibility to build that.” Written by Paul Gregoire. Republished with permission of <a href="https://www.sydneycriminallawyers.com.au/blog/good-people-break-bad-laws-rough-sleepers/">Sydney Criminal Lawyers.</a>

Art

How Aussie pensioners can get free hearing aids

Aussie pensioners are doing it especially tough right now. The rising cost of living is hitting hard, leading many to make sacrifices to try to save money. However, thanks to this new service, pensioners can save without missing the benefits of having a quality, modern hearing aid. Thanks to the Australian Government Hearing Services Program, pensioners are entitled to free hearing aids. And it’s never been easier to have your hearing assessed and compare hearing aids with the help of a trained audiologist thanks to <a href="https://hearingaidcomparison.com.au/form/step0-edm/?utm_source=over60&utm_medium=sponsoredarticle&utm_campaign=hac-january&utm_content=aussie-pensioners-free-ha&utm_term=in-text">HearingAidComparison.com.au</a>. This service makes it so simple to find an affordable hearing aid, there’s no need to leave your hearing loss untreated. All you have to do is answer a few basic questions and a local audiologist will contact you to arrange a free hearing assessment. After your assessment they will work with you to find out exactly which subsidies you’re eligible for and how much you could save. Here’s How You Do It: Step 1: Select your state below. Step 2: After answering a few questions, you will have the opportunity to compare hearing aids in your area and could be eligible for significant savings. <a rel="noopener" href="https://hearingaidcomparison.com.au/form/step0-edm/?utm_source=over60&utm_medium=sponsoredarticle&utm_campaign=hac-january&utm_content=aussie-pensioners-free-ha&utm_term=widget" target="_blank"><img style="width: 0px; height: 0px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7833565/hearing-aids-1-1280x326.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/4f47196b7f204bc48983bb31deeb5460" /></a> If you often struggle to understand what people are telling you, find it difficult to work out which direction sounds are coming from or have trouble hearing when you’re on the phone you could benefit from our free service. Many pensioners are surprised at how far modern hearing aid technology has come. Hearing aids are now designed to integrate seamlessly with your everyday life, with some being invisible to the naked eye and connecting with your smart devices at home. According to the Hearing Care Industry Association, only one in five Australians who could benefit from a hearing aid are actually using one. That’s four out of five Aussies who are living with hearing loss that could potentially be treated. <a href="https://hearingaidcomparison.com.au/form/step0-edm/?utm_source=over60&utm_medium=sponsoredarticle&utm_campaign=hac-january&utm_content=aussie-pensioners-free-ha&utm_term=in-text">HearingAidComparison.com.au</a> gives you all the tools you need to get a great device at an affordable price. Rather than having to track down information by yourself and potentially missing out on your rebate, you get experts working for you to save you money. If you think you could benefit from a new hearing aid and want to know your options, <a href="https://hearingaidcomparison.com.au/form/step0-edm/?utm_source=over60&utm_medium=sponsoredarticle&utm_campaign=hac-january&utm_content=aussie-pensioners-free-ha&utm_term=in-text">schedule your free hearing test today</a>. The first step to better hearing is only a few clicks away. <a href="https://hearingaidcomparison.com.au/form/step0-edm/?utm_source=over60&utm_medium=sponsoredarticle&utm_campaign=hac-january&utm_content=aussie-pensioners-free-ha&utm_term=in-text"><img style="width: 0px; height: 0px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7833580/hearing-aids-5-au-map.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/00d6d26e8ac14bb084b4a3b1eb889bba" /></a> This article is opinion only and should not be taken as medical or financial advice. Check with a financial professional before making any decisions.

Caring

Former aide reveals Princess Margaret and the Queen Mother’s “strained relationship”

While it may seem as though the details of the Royal Family’s life is information readily available at the public’s disposal, it can be difficult to really know what goes on behind closed doors. However, it has become a custom for a former employee or insider to come forward with interesting information we might not have guessed without their stories or experiences. This has been the case with Queen Elizabeth’s longtime dresser, Angela Kelly, and more recently Lady Anne Glenconner in her new memoir. Glenconner served as a lady-in-waiting to Princess Margaret for many years and developed a close relationship, she described in Lady in Waiting: My Extraordinary Life in the Shadow of the Crown. In her own words, Glenconner described personal experiences and interactions she shared serving under and alongside the Royal Family. In the memoir, the former lady-in-waiting spoke on Princess Margaret and the Queen Mother, who buy her own accounts, “had a slightly strained relationship.” "Those weekends at Royal Lodge were always fun, despite the bouts of bickering between the Queen Mother and Princess Margaret,” she said, per <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.express.co.uk/news/royal/1203465/lady-glenconner-princess-margaret-queen-mother-strained-relationship-spt" target="_blank">Express</a> "One would do things like open all the windows, only for the other to go around shutting them. Or one would suggest an idea and the other would dismiss it immediately." Glenconner speculated they didn’t get along all the time because they might have been “too similar.” “...I don’t think it is an unusual predicament for a mother and daughter," she wrote. Referring to the family’s loss of King George VI, and the “figurative” loss of Queen Elizabeth, who assumed the throne after her father died, Glenconner said: "And while they had been part of a foursome originally, they were left as the spare pair, to a certain extent." The former royal employee also wrote about a conversation she shared with Princess Margaret. After noting the royal looked upset at her sister’s coronation, the Princess replied: "Of course I looked sad, Anne. “I had just lost my beloved father and, really, I had just lost my sister, because she was going to be so busy and had already moved to Buckingham Palace, so it was just me and the Queen Mother." Scroll through the gallery to see Princess Margaret with the Queen Mother throughout the years of their life.

Relationships

Top hearing aids of 2019: Best features, invisibility and more

Getting older comes with great wisdom, and sometimes (unfortunately) a whole host of new health ailments. The good news is, many of them can be effectively treated or managed, including hearing loss. If you’re tired of saying “pardon?”, distracting yourself from the buzzing in your ear, or having to ask your family members to turn up the TV volume, know that you don’t have to suffer in silence any longer. Poor hearing is not your new normal. It can be fixed with the help of a quality hearing aid. And don’t worry—hearing aids aren’t the clunky devices they used to be. Many of today’s modern versions sit just inside the ear, making them practically invisible. If the cost of fixing your hearing is an issue, Sydney-based service <a href="https://hearingaidcomparison.com.au/edm/?utm_medium=sponsoredarticle&utm_source=over60&utm_campaign=hac-november&utm_content=top-hearing-aids">Hearing Aid Comparison</a> can book you in for a free hearing screening with an audiologist near you. They’ll test your hearing and show you a range of devices based on your unique needs and budget. Better yet—you can try before you buy, to ensure your hearing aid is a good fit for you and your lifestyle. Get your free hearing test today Step 1: Select your state below. Step 2: After answering a few questions, you will have the opportunity to compare hearing aids in your area and could be eligible for significant savings. <a href="https://hearingaidcomparison.com.au/edm/?utm_medium=sponsoredarticle&utm_source=over60&utm_campaign=hac-november&utm_content=top-hearing-aids"><img style="width: 500px; height: 158.984375px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7832127/o60_hac_selectyourstate_1280-1.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/e3995c525c144f589fde27598536d7b1" /></a> Noticing that your hearing has started to slip can be jarring. But you don’t have to live a life of shouting and asking people to repeat themselves. You simply need to find the hearing aid that best fits your needs, and if cost is an issue, your budget. But where to start? The following list of hearing aids are from some of the top providers in Australia and can help you get started on your search for a quality hearing aid. Best Features: Widex Evoke The Widex Evoke is the world’s first smart hearing aid, and the only hearing aid on the market that can truly evolve through frequent use. The Evoke lets you customise your settings—like most modern hearing aids do—but allows you more freedom and relaxation than some others on the market. Your hearing aids are learning as you use them. They make automatic adjustments to fit your surroundings based on the other environments you’ve visited in the past. On top of that, they’re some of the most comfortable hearing aids on the market. Best Invisible: Starkey CIC with Muse iQ Starkey is another top name in the hearing aid industry, and make one of the better invisible hearing aids out there. These hearing aids won’t be best for everyone, but those who have mild to moderate hearing loss can keep their hearing aids hidden without losing features. The Muse iQ delivers high-quality speech recognition in even the busiest of environments, as well as the ability to stream calls, TV, and music directly to the hearing aids. ReSound LiNX 3D The LiNX 3D is one of the newer hearing aid options from ReSound. It delivers some of the best directional sound features on the market, which is sometimes difficult to find in hearing aids. This hearing aid does everything well. It’s comfortable, discreet, and powerful enough to service the needs of those with severe hearing loss. As the name suggests, the real selling point of these hearing aids is the directional sound. It makes incoming sounds a lot more natural than some of the other devices we’ve seen. Eargo Neo The Eargo Neo presents as one of the better values for hearing aids. The invisible hearing aid sits comfortably in your ear and delivers reliable sound profiles that make the hearing aids feel more natural. These hearing aids aren’t the most powerful on the market, but they’re excellent value for those who want invisible hearing aids with reliable sound. Starkey Livio Ai The Livio AI is more than just a hearing aid. The device also tracks the health of your brain and body. The sensors can even detect if you’ve fallen and in need of assistance. Of course, the Livio is also a top-notch hearing aid that interfaces with your phone. It can perform well in noisy environments and is barely noticeable sitting on your ear. Widex Beyond iPhone lovers will enjoy the Widex Beyond. Although the hearing aid is compatible with Android, it’s designed to work in tandem with Apple devices. These behind-the-ear hearing aids are affordable and comfortable. They make setting adjustments easy through the intuitive app, and let you stream music, TV, and phone calls. Unfortunately, the streaming features aren’t available for Android just yet, but iPhone users will be more than happy with this pick. Oticon Opn S The Oticon Opn S is a discreet hearing aid that doesn’t compromise on sound quality. It provides 360-degree sound to make listening feel more natural. A lot of other invisible hearing aids need to compromise on directional sound, but the Opn S does not. Another great feature of these hearing aids is the ability to detect and eliminate the whistling sound that is common in other small devices. All of this for an affordable price as well. With all these different brands, styles, and features, finding a suitable hearing aid comes down to what you’re looking for. Need a hand? Connect with an audiologist near you Step 1: Select your state below. Step 2: Answer a few questions to book in a free hearing test in your area and compare hearing aids. <a href="https://hearingaidcomparison.com.au/edm/?utm_medium=sponsoredarticle&utm_source=over60&utm_campaign=hac-november&utm_content=top-hearing-aids"><img style="width: 493.82716049382714px; height: 500px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7832126/o60_hac_map_1280.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/7919353ebc0f4774beac9cd41c0ef154" /></a> This article is opinion only and should not be taken as medical or financial advice. Check with a financial professional before making any decisions.

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