50+ Lifestyles

Ask the Audiologist

By Kevin Kock, Au.D.
Audiology Consultants, P.C.

Your Ears, Your Care: 5 Ways An Audiologist Can Help

As a licensed audiologist, I’m fortunate to work with individuals with diverse hearing needs every day. Often, patients come in wondering how we can help. Many associate us solely with hearing aids. While hearing aids are part of my work, there’s much more to what we do. Our care is centered on you, and our support is tailored to your unique situation. Here are a few ways an audiologist can help:

1. Hearing Loss Prevention:

Did you know that the top two causes of hearing loss are aging and exposure to loud sounds? While we can’t stop aging, we can help protect our ears from harmful noise. Audiologists can recommend the right hearing protection for your needs. For those who struggle with traditional earplugs, custom options—such as solid earplugs, musician’s earplugs that maintain sound fidelity, or fully electronic protection—offer convenience and effective protection.

2. Tinnitus Management:

Tinnitus, often described as ringing or buzzing in the ears, is a common health condition and a leading disability among U.S. veterans. While there is no cure for tinnitus, many people can reduce its impact. Hearing aids can provide relief for some people, while others benefit from personalized strategies, sound therapy, or support. If you experience tinnitus, an audiologist can work with you to find options that ease symptoms and improve your quality of life.

3. Communication Strategies and Support:

Audiologists have specialized training to help you advocate for your communication needs. We want to see our patients succeed. Communication strategies are often simple and free strategies that can greatly enhance your interactions and improve your overall quality of life. These may include tips for navigating noisy environments, strategies for loved ones to speak more clearly, and counseling to address the emotional and social challenges of hearing loss.

4. Hearing Evaluations and Monitoring Hearing:

If you’re concerned about your hearing, a professional evaluation is essential. This helps establish a baseline and assess your ability to hear. Importantly, a hearing test doesn’t automatically mean you need hearing aids. Recommendations depend on the severity of any hearing loss and your personal needs. We can monitor your hearing, suggest protective measures, and offer guidance on your next steps. If you or a loved one have any concerns about your hearing, call your audiologist for a test.

5. Hearing Device Support, Adjustments, and Maintenance:

Many people with hearing loss benefit from devices tailored to their goals and lifestyle. Audiologists may also recommend assistive technologies like TV streamers or remote microphones to enhance daily activities. Routine check-ins ensure your devices are adjusted and maintained for optimal performance. A personalized care plan can help protect your devices and ensure you are hearing your best over time.

Hearing loss can impact many aspects of life, but you don’t have to face it alone. Audiologists are here to guide and support you with personalized care, practical strategies, and advanced solutions. Whether you’re protecting your hearing, managing tinnitus, or exploring hearing aids, the goal is always to improve your communication and enhance your quality of life. If you have questions or concerns about your hearing, take the first step and reach out to your audiologist—they’re ready to help you on your journey to better hearing.