Comprehensive Hearing and Balance Care: Your Complete Guide to Services at Audiology Associates Hawaii
Discover the full range of hearing and balance services at Audiology Associates Hawaii. From diagnostic evaluations to custom hearing protection, our doctoral-level audiologists provide personalized care across two convenient Oahu locations.
Living in Hawaii means embracing an active, social lifestyle filled with ocean adventures, outdoor gatherings, and vibrant community connections. When hearing or balance issues arise, they can significantly impact your ability to fully enjoy island life. At Audiology Associates Hawaii, our doctoral-level audiologists provide comprehensive hearing and balance healthcare designed specifically for the unique needs of Hawaii residents.
Our Philosophy: Listen, Coach, Help
Unlike certain hearing aid retailers that simply "hand you hearing aids and leave you alone," we take a different approach. Our team believes in building relationships with our patients, understanding your individual challenges, and providing ongoing support throughout your hearing healthcare journey. We recognize that hearing loss and balance issues can be frustrating, and we ensure each patient can move forward with treatment at a pace that feels comfortable.
Comprehensive Hearing Evaluations
What Makes Our Evaluations Different
Your hearing evaluation begins with a conversation. We want to understand what you're experiencing in your daily life – whether it's difficulty hearing conversations at your favorite Ala Moana restaurant, missing important sounds during your morning beach walks, or struggling to connect with family during backyard gatherings.
Our Evaluation Process Includes:
Comprehensive Case History: We discuss your hearing concerns, lifestyle needs, medical history, and specific situations where you notice hearing difficulties.
Physical Examination: Visual inspection of your ears to identify any visible issues like wax buildup, inflammation, or structural concerns.
Pure Tone Audiometry: Precise testing to determine the softest sounds you can hear at different frequencies, creating a detailed picture of your hearing ability.
Speech Testing: Evaluation of how well you understand speech in quiet and noisy environments – crucial for real-world hearing success.
Tympanometry: Assessment of eardrum and middle ear function to identify potential medical issues requiring physician referral.
Otoacoustic Emissions (when appropriate): Testing of inner ear hair cell function to provide additional diagnostic information.
Personalized Hearing Treatment Solutions
Modern Hearing Aid Technology
Today's hearing aids are sophisticated devices that can dramatically improve your quality of life. Our audiologists work with leading manufacturers to provide:
Digital Hearing Aids: Advanced processing that automatically adjusts to different listening environments, from quiet conversations to bustling farmers markets.
Rechargeable Options: Convenient charging solutions perfect for active Hawaii lifestyles – no more fumbling with tiny batteries.
Bluetooth Connectivity: Stream phone calls, music, and other audio directly to your hearing aids for crystal-clear sound quality.
Waterproof and Water-Resistant Models: Essential for Hawaii's humid climate and water-centered activities.
Custom Fitting and Programming
Every hearing aid fitting at our practice includes:
Real ear measurements to ensure optimal sound quality
Multiple follow-up appointments for fine-tuning
Comprehensive instruction on use and care
Ongoing support and maintenance
Hearing Aid Styles We Offer
Behind-the-Ear (BTE): Durable and powerful, excellent for Hawaii's humid environment and active lifestyles.
In-the-Ear (ITE): Custom-molded for comfortable, secure fit during physical activities.
Completely-in-Canal (CIC): Virtually invisible option for those preferring discretion.
Receiver-in-Canal (RIC): Popular choice offering excellent sound quality with a comfortable, open fit.
Balance Assessment and Treatment (VNG Testing)
Balance problems can significantly impact your ability to enjoy Hawaii's outdoor lifestyle safely. Our comprehensive balance evaluations help identify the source of dizziness, vertigo, or unsteadiness you may be experiencing.
Videonystagmography (VNG) Testing
VNG testing is the gold standard for balance system evaluation. This comprehensive assessment:
Measures Eye Movements: Your eye movements provide valuable information about inner ear function and balance system health.
Identifies Specific Problems: Pinpoints whether balance issues originate in your inner ear, brain, or other systems.
Guides Treatment Decisions: Results help determine the most effective treatment approach for your specific condition.
Provides Objective Data: Clear, measurable results that track improvement over time.
Balance Treatment Options
Based on your evaluation results, treatment may include:
Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy: Customized exercises designed to retrain your balance system and reduce symptoms.
Canalith Repositioning Procedures: Specific maneuvers to treat certain types of vertigo by repositioning displaced crystals in your inner ear.
Lifestyle Modifications: Strategies to manage symptoms and maintain safety during daily activities.
Medical Referrals: When appropriate, coordination with physicians for comprehensive care.
Custom Hearing Protection Solutions
Hawaii's active lifestyle and occupational environments often involve noise exposure that can damage your hearing over time. We provide custom hearing protection for:
Recreational Activities
Water Sports: Custom swim plugs that keep water out while maintaining sound awareness
Motorcycling: Wind noise protection for scenic island rides
Concerts and Festivals: Enjoy Hawaii's music scene while protecting your hearing
Hunting and Shooting Sports: Specialized protection for firearm use
Occupational Protection
Construction and Development: Protection for Hawaii's booming construction industry
Aviation and Airport Workers: Solutions for high-noise aviation environments
Military Personnel: Specialized protection for active duty service members
Marine and Harbor Workers: Protection for maritime industry professionals
Musicians: Custom protection that maintains sound quality while preventing damage
Benefits of Custom Protection
Superior Comfort: Made from impressions of your ears for all-day wearability Better Protection: More effective seal than generic earplugs Durability: Long-lasting materials that withstand Hawaii's climate Activity-Specific Design: Tailored to your specific needs and activities
What Sets Audiology Associates Hawaii Apart
Doctoral-Level Expertise
Our team of audiologists holds doctoral degrees (Au.D.), ensuring you receive care from the most qualified hearing healthcare professionals available.
Low-Pressure Environment
We believe in education and gradual decision-making. You'll never feel rushed or pressured into treatment decisions.
Individualized Care
Every patient receives one-on-one attention in our private treatment rooms. Your care plan is tailored specifically to your hearing needs, lifestyle, and preferences.
Ongoing Support
We provide comprehensive follow-up care, including:
Regular hearing aid cleanings and maintenance
Programming adjustments as your needs change
Batteries and supplies
Troubleshooting and repairs
Annual hearing evaluations
Two Convenient Locations
Aiea Office: Aiea Shopping Center, 99-115 Aiea Heights Drive, Suite 264 Honolulu Office: Kuakini Physicians' Tower, 405 North Kuakini Street, Suite 1012
Both locations feature:
Fully private examination rooms
State-of-the-art diagnostic equipment
Comfortable, soothing environments
Easy parking and accessibility
When to Seek Professional Help
Consider scheduling an evaluation if you experience:
Asking others to repeat themselves frequently
Difficulty hearing in restaurants or group settings
Turning up TV volume consistently
Missing important sounds like doorbells or phone calls
Feeling exhausted after social gatherings
Dizziness, vertigo, or balance problems
Ringing or buzzing in your ears
Ear pain or drainage
Concerns about noise exposure
Your Next Steps
At Audiology Associates Hawaii, we understand that taking the first step toward better hearing or balance can feel overwhelming. Our team is here to guide you through the process at your own pace, providing the support and expertise you need to make informed decisions about your hearing healthcare.
Ready to enhance your hearing and balance? Contact us today to schedule your comprehensive evaluation. Our friendly staff will answer your questions and help you choose the appointment time and location that works best for your schedule.
Aiea Office: (808) 486-5000 Honolulu Office: (808) 685-7016
Don't let hearing or balance issues limit your enjoyment of Hawaii's incredible lifestyle. Let our experienced team help you reconnect with the sounds and activities you love most.
Audiology Associates Hawaii - Where personalized care meets advanced hearing and balance solutions for island living.