Great Lakes Hearing Care

Great Lakes Hearing Care Dr. Laura J. Curcio is a provider of hearing healthcare services for people in the greater Rochester, MI area.

She is committed to providing accurate and efficient diagnostic and rehabilitation services.

Music & Hearing: How to Enjoy Your Favorite Sounds Without DamageMusic is powerful. It motivates workouts, deepens emoti...
02/19/2026

Music & Hearing: How to Enjoy Your Favorite Sounds Without Damage
Music is powerful. It motivates workouts, deepens emotions, fuels road trips, and connects us to memories. But while music enriches our lives, unsafe listening habits can permanently damage your hearing.
The good news? You don�t have to give up your favorite songs to protect your ears. With the right knowledge and a few smart habits, you can enjoy music safely for decades to come.
Let's explore how sound affects your hearing and how to prevent noise-induced hearing loss.
How Loud Is Too Loud?
Sound intensity is measured in decibels (dB). The higher the decibel level, the shorter the safe listening time.
According to the CDC and National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH):
Safe listening level: 70 dB or lower over 24 hours
85 dB: Safe for about 8 hours
100 dB: Safe for only 15 minutes
110�120 dB: Risk of immediate damage
Read More at https://www.greatlakesaud.com/blog

Sound Safety in Kids: Safe Listening Tips for ParentsChildren today are growing up in a world filled with sound — stream...
01/28/2026

Sound Safety in Kids: Safe Listening Tips for Parents
Children today are growing up in a world filled with sound — streaming videos, online learning, music, gaming, and constant headphone use. While technology brings many benefits, it also increases the risk of noise-induced hearing loss in children if safe listening habits aren't followed.
The good news? Hearing damage from noise is largely preventable. With the right knowledge and habits, parents can protect their children's hearing now and for years to come.
Why Sound Safety Matters for Kids
Children's ears are still developing, making them especially vulnerable to loud sounds. Inside the inner ear are tiny sensory cells that help us hear. Once damaged by excessive noise, these cells do not regenerate, and hearing loss can be permanent.
Read More at https://www.greatlakesaud.com/blog

Still on Your New Year’s To-Do List? Why It’s Not Too Late for a Hearing Health CheckupJanuary is full of motivation. Ne...
01/26/2026

Still on Your New Year’s To-Do List? Why It’s Not Too Late for a Hearing Health Checkup
January is full of motivation. New goals, fresh routines, and promises to prioritize health often top the list of New Year’s resolutions. But as the weeks pass, life gets busy — and some of those goals quietly get pushed aside.
If scheduling a hearing health checkup was one of your resolutions and it hasn’t happened yet, here’s the good news: it’s not too late. In fact, following through now may be even more important than sticking to an arbitrary January deadline.
Health Resolutions Don’t Expire
One of the biggest myths about New Year’s resolutions is that if they don’t happen right away, they don’t count. The reality is that meaningful health improvements come from follow-through, not perfect timing.
Read More at https://www.greatlakesaud.com/blog

Hearing Aid Battery Evolution: From Rechargeable to Extended-Life SolutionsHearing aid technology has advanced rapidly o...
01/26/2026

Hearing Aid Battery Evolution: From Rechargeable to Extended-Life Solutions
Hearing aid technology has advanced rapidly over the last decade—and battery performance has improved right along with it. Today’s hearing aid users expect devices that last all day, support streaming and connectivity, and fit easily into daily routines. From modern rechargeable systems to smarter power management, hearing aid batteries are evolving to deliver more convenience than ever.
Here’s what’s changed, what’s improving now, and what users can realistically expect from today’s hearing aid battery technology.
The two main types of hearing aid batteries
Disposable zinc-air batteries
Zinc-air batteries have been used in hearing aids for decades, and they’re still widely available today. These batteries activate when exposed to air and offer reliable performance, especially for users who prefer a quick battery swap rather than charging.
Read More at https://www.greatlakesaud.com/blog

New Hearing Aid & Hearing Test Technology Trends for 2026Hearing technology is evolving rapidly in 2026. Today’s hearing...
01/12/2026

New Hearing Aid & Hearing Test Technology Trends for 2026
Hearing technology is evolving rapidly in 2026. Today’s hearing aids are smarter, more connected, and more personalized than ever, while hearing testing is becoming faster, more accurate, and easier to access. These advances are changing how hearing loss is detected, treated, and managed.
Below are the top technology trends shaping hearing care this year.
Smarter AI-Powered Hearing Aids
Modern hearing aids now use advanced artificial intelligence to improve speech clarity in real-world environments. Instead of relying on preset programs, AI-driven devices continuously analyze sound and adjust automatically—especially in noisy settings like restaurants, meetings, and crowds.
What this means for patients: clearer speech, less listening effort, and better comfort throughout the day.
Bluetooth LE Audio & Auracast Compatibility
Read More at https://www.greatlakesaud.com/blog

𝗣𝗿𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗔𝗶𝗱𝘀 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗪𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿—N𝗼 𝗠𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗟𝗶𝘃𝗲Winter doesn’t look the same everywhere. Some ...
12/24/2025

𝗣𝗿𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗔𝗶𝗱𝘀 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗪𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿—N𝗼 𝗠𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗟𝗶𝘃𝗲

Winter doesn’t look the same everywhere. Some areas experience snow and freezing temperatures, while others have cooler, wetter, or windier seasons. Regardless of climate, winter conditions can affect both your hearing and your hearing aids. A few seasonal adjustments can help keep your ears comfortable and your devices working properly all winter long.
How Winter Weather Can Affect Your Ears
Cold air and wind can reduce blood flow to the ears, leading to discomfort and sensitivity—especially in regions with colder winters. In milder climates, frequent temperature changes, damp weather, and increased wind exposure can still irritate the ears and affect hearing comfort.
Seasonal changes may also worsen symptoms such as tinnitus or ear fullness, particularly when moving between outdoor air and heated indoor spaces.
Read More at https://www.greatlakesaud.com/blog

Hearing Loss and Relationships: Staying Connected Through Better CommunicationHearing loss affects more than just your e...
12/15/2025

Hearing Loss and Relationships: Staying Connected Through Better Communication
Hearing loss affects more than just your ears — it can touch every part of your daily life, including your closest relationships. Whether it's missing parts of a conversation, withdrawing from social situations, or feeling frustrated during communication, these challenges are common. The good news? With awareness, the right tools, and simple communication strategies, relationships can grow even stronger.
How Hearing Loss Affects Relationships
1. Misunderstandings Become More Common
Missing words or mishearing details can lead to confusion or unintentional conflicts. Both partners may feel frustrated or misunderstood.
2. Social Activities May Be Avoided
Restaurants, family gatherings, and group conversations can feel overwhelming — leading some individuals to withdraw or participate less.
Read More at https://www.greatlakesaud.com/blog

Traveling with Hearing Aids: Tips for a Smooth JourneyTravel opens the door to new experiences, cultures, and connection...
11/26/2025

Traveling with Hearing Aids: Tips for a Smooth Journey
Travel opens the door to new experiences, cultures, and connections—but if you wear hearing aids, it also comes with a few unique challenges. The good news? With a bit of preparation, you can enjoy a smooth, stress-free journey wherever your adventures take you. From airport security to changing climates, here’s your practical guide to traveling confidently with hearing aids.
Before You Go: Prepare Your Hearing Tech
Pack Smart—and Bring Extras
Make a hearing-aid “travel kit” with essentials such as:
Fresh batteries or a fully charged power bank
Your charging case and any cables
Domes, wax guards, and cleaning tools
A protective carrying case
A backup pair of hearing aids, if you have them
Pro Tip: If you use rechargeable devices, pack a portable charger or a power converter for international travel.
Read More at https://www.greatlakesaud.com/blog

The Connection Between Mental Health and Hearing LossHearing loss is often seen as a physical condition, but its impact ...
11/21/2025

The Connection Between Mental Health and Hearing Loss

Hearing loss is often seen as a physical condition, but its impact goes far beyond the ears. It can deeply affect mental health, influencing how individuals feel, think, and interact with the world around them. Let’s explore the connection between hearing loss and mental well-being.

The Emotional Toll of Hearing Loss

Hearing loss can lead to feelings of frustration, isolation, and loneliness. Struggling to follow conversations or missing out on important sounds can make social interactions stressful. Over time, this can cause individuals to withdraw from social activities, leading to a sense of disconnection from friends, family, and the community.

This isolation can increase the risk of mental health challenges, such as depression and anxiety. Studies show that people with untreated hearing loss are more likely to experience these conditions compared to those with normal hearing or those who use hearing aids.
Read More at https://www.greatlakesaud.com/blog

𝗥𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗴𝗻𝗶𝘇𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗪𝗵𝗶𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗿 𝗼𝗳 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲: 𝗘𝗮𝗿𝗹𝘆 𝗦𝗶𝗴𝗻𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗟𝗼𝘀𝘀Hearing is one of our most vital senses, connecting us to ...
11/07/2025

𝗥𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗴𝗻𝗶𝘇𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗪𝗵𝗶𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗿 𝗼𝗳 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲: 𝗘𝗮𝗿𝗹𝘆 𝗦𝗶𝗴𝗻𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗟𝗼𝘀𝘀

Hearing is one of our most vital senses, connecting us to the world and the people around us. Yet, hearing loss often creeps in so gradually that it can be hard to notice at first. Recognizing the early signs of hearing loss can make a big difference in addressing the issue before it impacts your quality of life.

Common Early Signs of Hearing Loss

Difficulty Following Conversations
Struggling to keep up with conversations, especially in noisy environments, is one of the first signs. You might find yourself asking people to repeat themselves or feeling like others are mumbling.
Turning Up the Volume
If you’re constantly increasing the volume on your TV, phone, or music to hear clearly, it could be a sign that your hearing isn’t as sharp as it used to be.
Missing Everyday Sounds
Do you no longer hear birds chirping, the hum of the refrigerator, or the doorbell ringing? Missing subtle sounds is a red flag for hearing loss.
Read More at https://www.greatlakesaud.com/blog

Hearing in Noisy Environments: How Technology Can HelpWe’ve all struggled to hear in noisy places — a busy café, a famil...
11/07/2025

Hearing in Noisy Environments: How Technology Can Help
We’ve all struggled to hear in noisy places — a busy café, a family party, or even a crowded store. For people with hearing loss, these situations can feel especially frustrating. The good news? Modern hearing technology is designed to make those moments easier, clearer, and more enjoyable.
Why Noisy Environments Are a Challenge
Background noise competes with the sounds you want to hear — like a friend’s voice or a waiter’s question. When hearing is reduced, your brain has to work extra hard to separate speech from the noise around you. That extra effort can be tiring and can make conversations stressful.
How Modern Hearing Technology Makes a Difference
Today’s hearing aids are much more than tiny amplifiers. They’re smart, adaptive devices that help you focus on what matters most — the voices you want to hear. Here’s how they do it:
Directional Microphones – These automatically focus on the person speaking in front of you and reduce the sounds coming from behind or the sides.
Read More at https://www.greatlakesaud.com/blog

Hearing Aid Myths Debunked: What You Really Need to KnowHearing aids have come a long way in recent years, but misconcep...
10/16/2025

Hearing Aid Myths Debunked: What You Really Need to Know

Hearing aids have come a long way in recent years, but misconceptions about them still persist. These myths
can prevent people from seeking the help they need to improve their hearing and quality of life. Let’s debunk
some of the most common myths about hearing aids and set the record straight.
Myth 1: Hearing Aids Are Only for the Elderly
The Truth: Hearing loss can affect anyone, regardless of age. While it’s more common in older adults, younger
people can also experience hearing loss due to genetics, noise exposure, or medical conditions. Modern
hearing aids are designed to fit seamlessly into anyone’s lifestyle, no matter their age.
Myth 2: Hearing Aids Are Big and Bulky
The Truth: Gone are the days of large, clunky devices. Today’s hearing aids are sleek, discreet, and often barely
noticeable.
Read More at https://www.greatlakesaud.com/blog

Address

71 Walnut Boulevard STE 108
Rochester, MI
48307

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 6pm
Tuesday 8am - 6pm
Wednesday 8am - 6pm
Thursday 8am - 6pm
Friday 8am - 6pm

Website

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Great Lakes Hearing Care posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Practice

Send a message to Great Lakes Hearing Care:

Shortcuts

Share

Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn
Share on Pinterest Share on Reddit Share via Email
Share on WhatsApp Share on Instagram Share on Telegram

Category