Improving quality of life can start by seeing an audiologist for a hearing check.
Closely linked with overall wellbeing, Principal Clinical Audiologist, Pooja Bontu, says it’s important to look after hearing health.
Accessing this help has just gotten easier with Pooja’s reach broadening with the exciting announcement of new clinics opening across NSW and ACT.
Pooja’s most recent expansion will also see her visiting the Boorowa Street Medical Practice in Young as early as August as an independent Audiologist as well as her fortnightly trips to Murrumbateman’s Health Hub on 53 Rose Street.
“Sometimes, people don’t realise how much they’ve been missing until they experience clearer sound again,” she says.
“I’ve had patients tell me they can hear birds again, understand their grandchildren better, or feel confident in joining conversations. These moments are incredibly rewarding.”
Ensuring care is accessible to those living in rural areas (such as Young and Murrumbateman) have been pivotal to Pooja, who says regular hearing checks can help identify problems early.
“Many people delay getting their hearing checked for years, but hearing care can make a huge difference to daily life,” she says.
Pooja has extensive qualifications within audiology, including postgraduate studies within the field, and comprehensive experience in hearing care, including diagnostic hearing assessments, hearing aid fittings, tinnitus management, balance-related concerns and ear wax removed through micro-suction.
Pooja also widely services the Canberra region, with clinics located across the ACT, including Woden, Conder, Hawker and her latest permanent clinic at 7/104 Northbourne Avenue Braddon.
“I have always been drawn to healthcare and helping people improve their quality of life,” she says.
“Audiology felt like the perfect blend of science and patient care.
“What really inspired me was seeing how something as simple as improving someone’s hearing can bring back meaningful moments, such as hearing a loved one clearly again or feeling comfortable in conversations.”
The owner and Principal Audiologist at Candid Hearing, Pooja says she was inspired in creating a personalised care service whose dedication lay purely on her patients.
“I felt there was a need for hearing services that take the time to listen to patients, understand their concerns and provide honest guidance,” she says.
“At Candid Hearing we focus not only on hearing tests and hearing aids, but also on tinnitus support, balance concerns, ear health and wax removal.
“We also work closely with the community and aged care providers to ensure hearing care is accessible for people who may not always be able to travel easily.”
Titled with the values of open, honest, candid and patient-focused care, Pooja says she is excited to see just how many lives she can help with quality audiology care, particularly with her newest permanent clinic in Braddon, ACT for Canberrans and in Young/Murrumbateman for NSW residents.
“I really enjoy helping people who struggle with tinnitus and balance issues,” she says.
“These conditions affect everyday life in ways people don’t often talk about.
“Being able to guide them, reassure them and provide strategies that improve their comfort and confidence is very fulfilling.”
Declining health, Pooja says, can lead to frustration or isolation due to avoidance of conversations and social gatherings once discussions become difficult to follow.
“If hearing loss goes untreated, it can make communication harder and can lead to people withdrawing from social situations,” she says.
“Many people also experience listening fatigue because they are constantly trying to concentrate harder to understand speech.”
“At Candid Hearing, we aim to create a welcoming environment where people feel supported and understood.
“Whether someone needs help with hearing loss, tinnitus, balance concerns or ear health, we want them to know they can come to us and receive thoughtful, compassionate care.”
Pooja also offers comprehensive balance assessments to address issues with balance that may affect confidence and mobility.
“Balance problems can cause dizziness, vertigo and unsteadiness, which may increase the risk of falls – particularly in older adults,” she says.
“While many assume these symptoms are a natural part of ageing, they are often linked to inner ear conditions.”
Balance testing, she says, identifies how the inner ear, eyes and brain work together to maintain stability.
“If you or someone you know experiences frequent dizziness or unexplained falls, seeking professional advice can make a significant difference,” she says.
“The good news is that early support can make a big difference in maintaining independence and quality of life.”
Supporting hearing health in individuals – no matter where they live – is something Pooja says she prides herself on, and says she is excited to continue expanding her reach by helping residents in Young in August.
Candid Hearing. Murrumbateman Health Hub, 53 Rose Street, Murrumbateman. Boorowa Street Medical Practice, 10-12 Boorowa Street, Young. Call 0414 690 044 or visit candidhearing.com.au.
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