Babies who need hearing aids

There is a lot to think about when a baby is on the way. Parents do everything they can to prepare for their little ones, but something they might not be prepared for is being told their newborn has hearing loss. It can be a stressfully uncertain time for families. Sounds of Life Hearing Center wants those families to know they do not have to do it alone, and the sooner hearing loss is determined the sooner they are able to get the care they need to live their best lives.

“If they are diagnosed with hearing loss as a baby, we are able to fit that baby with hearing aids here and then they can continue their care with us,” says Cara Donovan Au.D., the director of pediatrics and implantable technology at Sounds of Life.

Dr. Donovan explains that if a baby does not pass the hearing test after they are born, the family is referred to an audiologist so the child can receive a full hearing test and be fitted for a hearing aid. But with most hospitals and doctors in the Cleveland area, lack of accessibility can deter families from making their follow-ups. About a year ago, Sounds of Life made it easier by opening their offices for pediatric testing, setting little ones up for success earlier and helping kids do what kids do best—be kids. 

Dr. Donovan hopes that early detection will help children feel empowered by their hearing aids, not limited by them, while also alleviating their parents’ concerns. She says that a child with hearing loss can do anything their heart desires and the remarkable team at Sounds of Life Hearing Center will be with them every step of the way. 

Sounds of Life Hearing Center is located at 8003 Auburn Rd., Suite 4, in Concord Township. For more information or to schedule an appointment call 440-579–4085 or visit SoundsOfLifeHC.com.