Hear better, live better

This time of year, we focus on health. Sarah Curtis, Au.D., founder of Sounds of Life Hearing Center in Concord, reminds us to include hearing.

“We must care for our hearing like we do our bodies,” says Dr. Curtis. “We listen to each patient’s story to find the right treatment. That sets us apart.”

Many places offer free hearing tests and sell hearing aids, but their help stops there. Sounds of Life provides full hearing care, long-term support and personalized treatment.

“Most places just sell hearing aids,” Dr. Curtis explains. “That might help, but everyone’s needs differ. We find the best solution for each person. If a hearing aid isn’t right for you, it won’t help.”

Finding the Right Solution

Not all hearing loss is the same. One-size-fits-all care doesn’t work.

“A hearing test, health check and consultation are the first steps,” says Dr. Cara Donovan. “These help us diagnose your hearing issue and find the best solution.”

Health problems affecting hearing include diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, thyroid issues, cancer treatments, aging and autoimmune diseases.

“If your hearing changes or you hear noises, call an audiologist,” Dr. Curtis advises.

Hearing Aids: Keep Your Options Open

Dr. Curtis cautions that many providers work with only one hearing aid manufacturer, limiting options. If their brand doesn’t work for you, there are no alternatives.

Worse, some retailers “lock” hearing aids, making adjustments elsewhere impossible. “These use proprietary software available only to certain retailers,” Dr. Curtis explains. “If you’re unhappy, you’re stuck. We fit all major brands and refuse to work with manufacturers that lock their hearing aids.”

More Than Just Hearing Aids

After six years and 3,000+ patients, Sounds of Life knows good care makes a difference.

Services include hearing tests for all ages (even newborns), hearing aid services and sales, tinnitus treatment, auditory processing testing and therapies, ear cleanings, and non-surgical cochlear implant services for kids and adults.

Sounds of Life stays current on treatments, including the FDA-approved Lenire device for tinnitus.

“It’s our job to know the latest technology and help patients find what works,” says Dr. Curtis. “Even if that means referring you elsewhere, we ensure you get the best care.”

“Some specialists lack full knowledge of options, leaving patients hopeless,” Dr. Curtis explains. “Many with tinnitus are told to ‘learn to live with it’ without full counseling. Our patients trust us to be informed and humble. If we don’t have the answer, we find one.”

Insurance and Hearing Care

Most people want an in-network doctor, but out-of-network care can be a better choice.

“We accept most insurance plans, but not all,” Dr. Curtis says. “Even so, our prices are often lower than other providers. Since most insurance doesn’t cover hearing aids, it’s smart to compare options. Call us, and we’ll help you figure it out.”

Helping Others Hear

Dr. Cara Donovan, a clinical lead for the nonprofit Hearing the Call, has provided hearing care in South Africa and Guatemala.

Chloe Lammers, a fourth-year audiology student at The Ohio State University, is training at Sounds of Life and has also participated in the program.

“We support missions like Hearing the Call and train future audiologists,” says Dr. Curtis. “We’ve trained 16 doctoral students and hope to set a high standard for the future.”

Sounds of Life is located at 8003 Auburn Road, Suite 4, in Concord Township. Call 440-579-4085 or visit SoundsOfLifeHC.com for more information. The team provides ongoing counseling and education for all hearing treatments. A tinnitus support group meets monthly at Chardon Community Center. Visit the website for details.