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Marylyn Koble
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As an audiologist, I see the clinical side of hearing care every day, but there are moments when the human side of what we do really stands out. Recently, a story involving Rebecca and her 10-year-old daughter reminded me why having a structured and caring process is so important, particularly when a child’s hearing is affected.
For Rebecca, the stress began when her daughter’s hearing device stopped working in May. If you’ve ever navigated specialist medical care for a child, you'll know how difficult it can be to hear that the next available appointment is months away.
“All locations, especially for specialty services, were booked till August or beyond,” Rebecca told us.
For a child who relies on a hearing device, having consistent access to that technology is an important part of participating fully at home, at school, and with peers. With the new school year approaching, finding a timely solution was particularly important for Rebecca and her daughter.
It’s a situation no parent wants to find themself in, but fortunately Rebecca and her daughter found their way to us.
From a Stressful Search to a Supportive Experience
Finding the right clinical environment can make a meaningful difference for a family. At Audiology Associates of DFW, our goal is to create an experience where parents feel supported and comfortable asking questions.
Rebecca described our practice as a “quaint, individualized experience with top-notch customer service.”
The sense of comfort she experienced can begin from the moment a family walks through the door, with a welcoming team member like our Patient Care Coordinator, Rachel, helping set the tone.
During their visit, I took the time to explain what was happening and answer Rebecca’s questions. As Rebecca shared: “I felt comfortable asking those more vulnerable questions and was educated on the inner workings of the ear.”
At Audiology Associates, hearing care goes beyond fitting or replacing a device. It also means helping parents understand what is happening and why so they can feel informed about their child’s care. This can be particularly valuable for families navigating pediatric hearing care for the first time, when questions about diagnosis or hearing technology may be new to them.
Supporting Hearing Needs as Your Child Grows
A child’s hearing needs can change as they grow and move through different stages of life. For example, the device and programming that work well for a 10-year-old may need to be adjusted as they enter their teenage years, become more independent, and eventually transition into adulthood.
Building a relationship with a clinical team gives families a consistent place to turn as their child’s needs change, while allowing the care team to get to know the child and their hearing needs over time.
For Rebecca, that ongoing relationship was an important part of her experience. As she reflected on her visit, she shared: “No words could ever express my gratitude for having Dr. Koble for my child. I look forward to growing with Audiology Associates.”
Recognizing National Audiology Awareness Month
This October, we recognize National Audiology Awareness Month, an opportunity to highlight the importance of hearing health and encourage families to pay attention to changes in hearing.
Being proactive is particularly important for children, as understanding their hearing needs early can help families make informed decisions about care and support as they grow.
The signs of hearing changes can be subtle: frequently asking for repetition, turning up the TV, or seeming inattentive. These behaviors can easily be overlooked or attributed to other things, but they may be indicators that a professional hearing evaluation is worth considering.
For children who already use hearing devices, regular appointments can help ensure their technology is working properly and continues to meet their needs.
Prioritize Your Family's Hearing
It’s natural for parents or children to feel a little apprehensive about having their hearing assessed, especially when they are unsure what to expect. However, hearing assessments are painless and noninvasive, providing a straightforward way to learn more about hearing health and address any concerns.
If you’ve noticed changes in your child’s hearing or your own, an evaluation can help determine whether any follow-up or additional care may be appropriate.
Contact Audiology Associates of DFW today to schedule an appointment at our Arlington or Cedar Hill clinic. We're here to support you and your family through every stage of your hearing journey!