Clearer sounds, stronger bonds

Through detailed assessments and aftercare, audiologists at 20dB Hearing Singapore help individuals and families bridge the gap caused by untreated hearing loss.

For years, Mr Adam Lim (not his real name) struggled with gradual hearing loss. Initially, the 65-year-old retired taxi driver would miss the occasional word during conversations, but over time, even his grandchildren’s chatter and his favourite TV shows became difficult to follow.

While his family encouraged him to seek help, Mr Lim was hesitant, worried that hearing aids might produce unnatural sounds or make him feel self-conscious about wearing them.

Noticing he had grown more withdrawn, his daughter eventually took him to 20dB Hearing Singapore, where he was assessed by audiologist Mohanavalli Baskaran. The centre has 12 convenient locations across the island.

Through a detailed hearing assessment and a discussion to better understand his lifestyle, Ms Mohana helped Mr Lim realise that hearing aids could improve not just his hearing, but also his daily life.

“Reluctance to use hearing aids is often influenced by social stigma, the belief that hearing loss is an inevitable part of ageing, and concerns about appearance,” says Ms Mohana.

“Many individuals are also unaware of the benefits modern hearing aids offer – especially when intervention happens early.”

Mr Lim was fitted with the Phonak Audeo Sphere Infinio, a hearing aid equipped with artificial intelligence (AI) and Bluetooth connectivity. Like all hearing aids purchased from the centre, they also come with lifetime aftercare – offering patients long-term support and regular adjustments to ensure the device continues to meet their changing hearing needs.

Making better connections

“People with hearing loss often struggle in noisy environments, as they have difficulty hearing sounds from different directions, which can lead to listening fatigue,” says Ms Mohana.

“The Phonak Audeo Sphere Infinio features the Deepsonic AI chip, which enhances speech clarity in real time. This helps to reduce listening effort and cognitive strain – even in busy settings like hawker centres.”

Users can also fine-tune settings such as volume, noise reduction and speech focus through the myPhonak app, available on both iOS and Android, for a more personalised listening experience.

“Everyone’s hearing needs are different,” says Ms Mohana. “At the clinic, we assess not only the type and degree of hearing loss, but also the person’s lifestyle, communication needs and the environments where they face challenges. This allows us to tailor our recommendations to improve overall quality of life.”

For Mr Lim, the change has made a world of difference. “I didn’t realise how much I was missing. Now, I can hear my wife’s gentle voice clearly again and respond to my grandchildren’s stories. These may seem like small moments, but they’ve brought back a sense of belonging. I feel like part of the family again.”

The gift of sound

Enjoy rebates of up to $520 on selected hearing aids – plus receive a complimentary bird’s nest gift set with every purchase of hearing aids.

This offer is valid from now till June 30, 2025. Terms and conditions apply.

*This article is officially published on The Straits Times newspaper (21 May 2025).