In a world where hearing and balance disorders affect a significant portion of the population, the demand for audiology services has never been more pressing. Hearing loss, a condition that can profoundly impact an individual’s life, extends its reach beyond the mere sense of sound. It influences how we communicate, engage socially, and even how we experience our own emotional well-being. The significance of early identification and intervention cannot be overstated, as it forms the bedrock of effective management for these sensory challenges. It is here that audiologists step in as the essential architects of improved hearing and equilibrium, promoting overall well-being.
Masonicare, Connecticut’s largest not-for-profit senior care continuum, is at the forefront of this critical healthcare landscape, providing exemplary audiology services through its esteemed Hearing Center. Located within the Erickson Office Building on Masonicare’s campus in Wallingford, Connecticut, the Hearing Center is a guiding light for all adult residents of the state. It stands as a haven for those battling hearing disorders, offering a spectrum of specialized care, including expert guidance on hearing aid selection and usage. What sets this establishment apart is its commitment to inclusivity, welcoming all adults aged 18 and above to avail themselves of its expert audiological services.
Masonicare’s dedication to cultivating better hearing extends further, as they regularly offer free onsite audiology screenings to the residents of their independent and assisted living facilities, testifying to their commitment to providing the best hearing loss care possible.
Heading this mission is Hillary H. Lewis, Doctor of Audiology at the Masonicare Hearing Center. With over two decades of dedicated service, she embodies the organization’s spirit of excellence and service. Hillary specializes in diagnosing and treating hearing disorders, showcasing expertise in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Leveraging the latest in hearing aid technology, she adeptly identifies and addresses hearing needs. She is a licensed audiologist and has also conducted educational presentations, dismissing common myths surrounding hearing and hearing loss.
Insights Care engaged in a conversation with Hillary to delve deeper into Masonicare’s impactful contributions to audiology healthcare.
Diagnostic Hearing Evaluations and Hearing Aid Fittings
Masonicare delivers a range of audiology services, including diagnostic hearing assessments and tailored hearing aid fittings. The profound connection between improved hearing and enhanced quality of life, increased social engagement, and, most significantly, a reduced risk of cognitive decline is a pivotal focus in their approach.
Dr. Lewis, a notable figure within Masonicare, underscores the critical importance of educating patients and their families about the far-reaching impact of hearing loss. She highlights, “We educate our patients and their loved ones on how hearing loss is not an inconsequential part of aging, rather it can have significant effects on many aspects of our health.”
Masonicare’s core ethos centers on the provision of personalized service. Recognizing the unique nature of each individual’s hearing loss and communication requirements, they collaborate closely with both the patient and their loved ones to deliver the highest standards of hearing healthcare. Furthermore, Masonicare remains committed to staying updated with the latest advancements in audiological technology to ensure the most effective solutions. To accommodate the diverse schedules of their valued patients, they also offer flexible appointment times.
Technological Advancements
Masonicare is part of the Greater Wallingford community in many ways promoting better hearing healthcare. Their initiatives range from hosting informative seminars at senior centers to educate the public about the connection between untreated hearing loss and dementia, to conducting complimentary hearing screenings at local libraries. The overarching objective is to encourage individuals to address their hearing concerns in a timely manner, promoting overall well-being.
Venturing into the Field of Audiology
While pursuing her undergraduate degree at the University of Connecticut, Dr. Lewis discovered her passion for Audiology. Intrigued by the field, she recognized it as her true professional calling. She expresses her fondness for the science of hearing, “I loved the science of hearing, the ever-evolving technology component, but mostly how hearing healthcare was very individualized.” She emphasizes that there is no cookie-cutter approach when it comes to working with individual patients.
Staying Informed in Audiology and Healthcare
Dr. Lewis’s enthusiasm for her career is evident as she expresses, “I love my career, as the field is always evolving.” She points out that technology that was once deemed advanced 5-10 years ago has now become essentially obsolete. She highlights the paradigm shift in perceiving hearing loss, noting that it was once considered a “normal” part of aging. Today, addressing hearing loss is crucial for optimal health.
Dr. Lewis highlights her commitment to ongoing learning, stating, “Through professional associations and hearing aid manufacturer trainings throughout the year, I’m always learning more ways to help my patients.” This dedication to staying informed ensures that she is equipped with the latest tools and insights to provide the highest standard of care.
Addressing Evolving Needs of Aging Population
Being an integral part of the Masonicare continuum entails collaborative work with various professionals, including physical and occupational therapists, visiting home healthcare experts, medical doctors, and APRNs. Masonicare relies on these valued colleagues to refer patients to their department, fostering a coordinated approach to healthcare delivery.
Advice for Aspiring Clinicians
Drawing upon her wealth of experience, Dr. Lewis imparts valuable advice, stating, “If someone is interested in becoming the best clinician possible, never stop learning. Collaborate with colleagues. Reach out to fellow audiologists for advice.” She emphasizes the importance of regularly attending continuing education courses to stay current in the field.
In addition, Dr. Lewis advises, “Take continuing education classes regularly. Promote yourself as the expert in hearing healthcare that you are.” Her guidance emphasizes the significance of not only acquiring expertise but also showcasing it to benefit both the profession and the patients it serves.
Insights into the Future of Audiology Services at Masonicare
Research reveals that an alarming 1 in 6 college-aged freshmen suffers from an irreversible, noise-induced hearing loss – a concern even among 18-year-olds. In light of these compelling statistics, the practice continually promotes the importance of baseline hearing tests for individuals of all ages. Vigilance and early intervention are considered paramount.
Dr. Lewis emphasizes, “We welcome all individuals, age 18 or older, and encourage them to add hearing testing to their battery of preventive health measures. Hearing loss is not restricted to an older demographic. Better hearing is beneficial at any age!” This proactive approach highlights Masonicare’s commitment to holistic hearing health.
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