By Dr. Ava Rhodes, Au.D., Doctor of Audiology/Ear Nerd
July is National Ice Cream Month—and honestly, who doesn’t love that? Whether you’re a chocolate fudge swirl loyalist or a pistachio purist, there’s something about a good scoop of ice cream that just makes everything better.
And funny enough, I’ve been thinking lately about how hearing care has something in common with ice cream. Stick with me here.
We all know that the experience of eating ice cream isn’t just about the scoop—it’s the whole experience. The friendly smile behind the counter. The extra effort to get just the right flavor. The toppings, the cone, the service with a sprinkle of joy. It’s a moment that feels personal, sweet, and satisfying.
And that’s exactly how hearing healthcare should feel, too.
It’s Not Just About the Devices
When people think of hearing care, they often picture hearing aids—and yes, those are an important part of the process. But great hearing healthcare is so much more than just fitting someone with a device. It’s about listening, understanding, adjusting, following up, and being there through every twist and turn of the hearing journey.
As an audiologist, I’m not just here to help you hear better—I’m here to make sure you feel supported, informed, and cared for.
Service Is the Secret Ingredient
Just like a great scoop of ice cream, the experience matters. It’s what keeps people coming back and what makes all the difference in long-term success.
We see it all the time: someone comes in for their first hearing test, maybe a little unsure or nervous. They’re not sure what to expect, and maybe they’ve put it off longer than they’d like to admit. Our job isn’t just to run the tests—it’s to make them feel comfortable, explain things in a way that makes sense, and walk alongside them as they begin to reconnect with the world around them.
It’s in the little things: a clean and cozy office. An audiologist who remembers your name—and your dog’s name. A front desk team that greets you like a friend. And regular check-ins that make sure your hearing aids are performing just as they should be.
These aren’t “extras”—they’re the foundation of great hearing care. Because hearing loss doesn’t just affect your ears—it affects your relationships, your confidence, and your daily joy. The service you receive along the way is what helps rebuild all of that.
Better Hearing, Better Health
Of course, hearing is also deeply tied to your overall health. Studies have shown that untreated hearing loss is linked to everything from increased fall risk to cognitive decline. On the flip side, treating hearing loss with properly fitted devices and follow-up care has been shown to support brain health, emotional well-being, and even social engagement.
So yes—better hearing can help you stay sharper, safer, and more connected. But it’s the ongoing care and service that help you get the full benefit of that better hearing.
Hearing aids are powerful tools, but they don’t work their magic alone. It’s the regular cleanings, the minor adjustments, the conversations about what’s working (and what’s not) that keep everything running smoothly.
Don’t Settle for Just a Scoop—Go for the Sundae
This July, while you’re enjoying a well-deserved frozen treat, I invite you to think about your hearing health the same way. Don’t settle for just the basics. You deserve the full experience—great hearing technology, yes, but also great service, follow-up care, and a team that’s truly in your corner.
At Decibels Audiology, we’re committed to making your hearing care journey feel easy, personalized, and even a little joyful. We offer hearing solutions for every lifestyle and budget, but what really sets us apart is our focus on people first, always.
If it’s been a while since your last hearing test—or if you’ve never had one—now’s a perfect time to start. Come in, meet our team, and let’s talk about what’s possible when your hearing care comes with a cherry on top.
Dr. Ava Rhodes, Au.D., is a licensed Doctor of Audiology at Decibels Audiology in Naples, Florida. She is passionate about compassionate hearing care, sunshine, and finding the perfect scoop of ice cream in Naples (original vanilla, if you’re wondering).
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