Ear Works Audiology answers your questions about hearing health and what to expect at an appointment

If you’ve been turning up the volume on the TV or struggling to follow conversations in noisy environments, it might be time to schedule a hearing test. Hearing problems can sneak up gradually, but knowing the signs and taking proactive steps can make all the difference. 

At Ear Works Audiology, the goal is simple: to provide clear answers, compassionate care and customized solutions. Founders and Drs. Victoria Kopec and Toni Zanetti, along with the entire Ear Works Audiology team, are dedicated to helping Long Islanders hear their best. From a personalized treatment plan to personalized care, their experienced professionals understand what works want to guide you toward the most effective hearing solutions. 

We spoke with Ear Works Audiology audiologist Dr. Meredith Moore who answered some common questions about what to expect at your audiology appointment and what happens after. 

What are the most common signs that it’s time for a hearing test?

“A big one is when people realize they used to watch TV at volume 12, and now it’s at 20,” says Dr. Moore, a licensed audiologist at Ear Works Audiology. “They also often say, ‘I can hear people talking, but I can’t understand what they’re saying.’”

Another common scenario? Difficulty hearing in restaurants or group settings. “People might blame the restaurant for being too noisy, but it could actually be their hearing,” Dr. Moore says. “They start withdrawing from conversations without even realizing it.”

What if a family member notices the problem first?

Hearing loss is often more obvious to others than it is to the person experiencing it. 

If you're trying to help a loved one, Dr. Moore recommends a no-pressure approach: “Just making that first appointment and getting a hearing test done, even if it’s just to establish a baseline, can be extremely helpful.” 

No decisions have to be made immediately. 

What should you expect during a hearing screening?

“The process is very simple and not invasive at all,” Dr. Moore shares. The audiologist will ask questions about your hearing history, look in your ears for wax or blockages and then perform a standard hearing test. This includes listening for tones and repeating back words in both quiet and noisy settings.

“The hearing test itself takes about 10 to 15 minutes. We try to make it very comfortable,” Dr. Moore says.

What happens if you find a hearing problem?

If hearing aids are recommended, Ear Works Audiology can demonstrate them in-office. “We fit the hearing aids right then and there so people can actually experience the difference. You don’t realize what you’re missing until you hear it again,” Dr. Moore says.

And if you’re not ready to move forward immediately? That’s fine too. “There’s no pressure. We will provide you with the information you need and stay in contact so that you can make the best decision for your hearing health,” she added.

How has hearing technology changed?

Gone are the days of bulky, whistling devices. “What we used to call the ‘big banana behind the ear’ is a thing of the past,” Dr. Moore explains. “Today’s devices are discreet, more comfortable and often smaller than AirPods.”

Many hearing aids are also Bluetooth compatible. “You can stream music, podcasts and phone calls right into your hearing aids. And since the microphones stay on, you can still hear your surroundings,” Moore explained.

Can hearing aids help with tinnitus?

Yes—especially certain models. “Widex has a hearing aid with a fabulous program for patients with tinnitus, and even patients with mild hearing problems can benefit,” Dr. Moore says. “It masks that ringing or buzzing with meaningful environmental sound, not just white noise.”

Are over-the-counter (OTC) devices a good option?

While OTC devices are more accessible, they’re not always the best choice. “They’re typically just amplifiers, not prescriptive. Most don’t include any noise management systems,” Dr. Moore explains.

Many patients come to Ear Works Audiology after spending hundreds on OTC devices that didn’t work for them. “They always say, ‘I wish I had come to you first,’” she says. Ear Works Audiology offers loaner devices and same-day service when needed—something online brands can’t match. Even if you can’t make it into your regular office, you have the option to visit one of the other locations. 

What sets Ear Works Audiology apart?

With 11 convenient locations across Long Island, patients receive personalized care without long wait times. “We tailor every device to the individual—based on their hearing test, lifestyle and preferences,” Dr. Moore says. 

Whether you’re navigating hearing problems or supporting someone who is, the most important step is the first one. “Just ask the questions,” Dr. Moore encourages. “That’s what we’re here for—to guide you, wherever your hearing journey leads.”

To learn more about Ear Works Audiology or to make an appointment, visit https://earworksaudiology.com/.

Headline: Ear Works Audiology: Your Guide to Hearing Health

If you’ve been turning up the TV or struggling in noisy conversations, it might be time for a hearing test—and Ear Works Audiology is here to help. With 11 Long Island locations and a team led by Dr. Victoria Kopec and Dr. Toni Zanetti, Ear Works provides compassionate, personalized hearing care for every step of your journey.

According to audiologist Dr. Meredith Moore, common signs of hearing loss include increasing TV volume, difficulty understanding speech and avoiding group conversations. Loved ones often notice these issues first, and Dr. Moore recommends a no-pressure approach to encourage that first appointment, even just to establish a baseline.

At your appointment, you can expect a comfortable, non-invasive visit that includes questions about your hearing history, an ear exam, and a 10- to 15-minute test involving tones and word recognition in quiet and noisy settings.

If hearing aids are recommended, patients can try them out immediately in-office. Today’s devices are discreet, Bluetooth-enabled, and even offer tinnitus relief through programs like those from Widex. While over-the-counter devices may seem convenient, they often lack the customization and noise management.

What truly sets Ear Works Audiology apart is their commitment to tailored solutions and ongoing support. Whether you’re ready to act or just gathering information, their team is ready to guide you toward better hearing health. Learn more at https://earworksaudiology.com.