By Dr. Ava Rhodes, Au.D., Doctor of Audiology/Ear Nerd
Each May, we celebrate Better Hearing Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about hearing loss and encouraging people to take a proactive approach to their hearing health. As an audiologist, I couldn’t be more excited about this annual reminder—because hearing is one of our most powerful connections to the world around us, and yet it’s often overlooked until it starts to slip away.
Hearing is Health
When I talk to patients at Decibels Audiology, many are surprised to learn that hearing loss doesn’t just affect how we perceive sound—it also plays a major role in our cognitive function, mental well-being, balance, and even heart health.
The ears may be small, but they are part of a much bigger system. When hearing begins to decline, the brain has to work harder to process sound. This increased mental strain has been linked to memory issues, faster cognitive decline, and even early signs of dementia. Additionally, untreated hearing loss has been associated with higher risks of depression, social isolation, and falls in older adults.
That’s why hearing health is not just about communication—it’s a key part of your overall wellness.
The Signs Are Easy to Miss
One of the biggest challenges with hearing loss is how gradually it tends to happen. You may find yourself turning up the TV volume more often, asking people to repeat themselves, or avoiding noisy restaurants because conversations feel too difficult to follow. You may even think others are mumbling more than they used to.
These are all signs that your hearing may be changing—but many people chalk it up to “getting older” or don’t realize how much they’re missing until they’re tested.
Better Hearing Month is the perfect reminder to schedule a baseline hearing screening, especially if you’re over 55. Just like an annual eye exam or a check-up with your primary care provider, hearing evaluations should be a regular part of your preventive health care.
Hearing Loss Is Treatable
The good news? Hearing loss is manageable, and the solutions today are better than ever. At Decibels Audiology, we prescribe medical-grade hearing devices from all major manufacturers. That means we don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach—we take time to understand your hearing needs, your lifestyle, and your budget.
Whether you spend your time golfing, traveling, volunteering, or simply enjoying family time, we can help you find a solution that keeps you hearing your best in the moments that matter most.
One of my favorite parts of this job is watching someone light up when they realize what they’ve been missing. A patient recently told me, “I didn’t realize how quiet my world had become until I could hear the birds again.” That’s what hearing care is all about—restoring your connection to life.
Don’t Wait—Your Brain Won’t
Some people hesitate to take the first step because they think their hearing loss “isn’t that bad yet.” But studies show that the longer hearing loss goes untreated, the harder it can be for your brain to adapt to sound again. Early intervention not only helps you hear better now—it protects your cognitive health and keeps those vital neural pathways strong.
The sooner you start, the better your outcomes. And no—hearing aids are not bulky or embarrassing anymore! Today’s technology is discreet, smart, and designed to fit seamlessly into your life.
Start with a Conversation
If you’re not sure where to begin, start by talking with your loved ones or your primary care provider. Or better yet, call us directly! A simple hearing screening takes less than an hour and gives us a clear picture of your hearing health. From there, we’ll guide you through your options—real answers and real care.
At Decibels Audiology, we’re here to build a lifelong partnership with you. That means helping you every step of the way—from your first test to follow-up adjustments and annual check-ins.
Let This May Be Your Moment
If you’ve been putting off your hearing test, now is the time. Make Better Hearing Month the moment you finally prioritize your hearing just like you would your heart, eyes, or joints. Because hearing isn’t just about sound—it’s about connection, confidence, and living life fully.
We invite you to schedule a free hearing screening at one of our two convenient locations in Naples. Let’s work together to protect one of your most precious senses and keep you hearing—and thriving—for years to come.
Dr. Ava Rhodes, Au.D
Dr. Ava Rhodes, Au.D. is a Florida native with a passion for helping patients reconnect with the world through better hearing. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from the University of Central Florida in 2020 and completed her Doctorate in Audiology at the University of South Alabama in 2024.
Dedicated to improving her patients’ ability to communicate, Dr. Rhodes takes pride in providing compassionate, personalized care. Outside of work, she enjoys soaking up the Florida sunshine at the beach with her goldendoodle, Fez.
Call today and schedule your complimentary
hearing test and consultation.
Helping Southwest Florida hear better for over 15 years!
Decibels Audiology & Hearing Center
239-325-0596
napleshearingaids.com