03/28/2014 12:00:00 AM story Many people diagnosed with impaired hearing delay using traditional hearing aids because of the stigma of old age or disability. In a study published in the December 2013 issue of The Hearing Review, Amyn Amlani, associate professor of speech and hearing sciences, and a team of researchers hope to show that the use of ear buds or headphones connected to a smartphone with a hearing aid application will encourage people to get help sooner because it is a more universally accepted practice. The apps are low-cost and available without the need for medical referrals. They can reduce stress and encourage use, serving as a stepping stone to promote hearing health awareness.