An audiologist shares the science behind Halloween’s eeriest noises.

What moved me most was not just the science. It was the joy. I will never forget an older man who heard his grandson’s voice clearly for the first time in years.

My area of study is auditory neuroscience, and I’m especially passionate about how neuroscience can reveal the underlying mechanisms behind why hearing outcomes vary so much from person to person. 

Hearing Health Foundation (HHF) is currently accepting applications for 2026–2027 awards through our Emerging Research Grants program.

Many single-sided deafness patients perform perfectly on standard speech-in-quiet tests due to their healthy ear, a “ceiling effect” that masks the real-world challenges they face. We propose using more sensitive metrics that assess sound quality and music perception.

As one who inhabits the worlds of both hearing and deafness, I am amazed by what you likely take for granted—the gift of hearing. And I experience the benefits, the misfortunes, and the humor of not hearing.

Our mission to fund innovative, groundbreaking hearing and balance science is only possible because of you. We are grateful for the support of our community.

Having a hearing loss can be a blessing when in a noisy environment.

The legacy gift from the late Shirley Jean Lane launches the next phase for HHF’s planned giving efforts: a new matching challenge to inspire legacy commitments from our community.

Congratulations to the 14 scientists awarded Emerging Research Grants for 2026.

Whether you’re donating through your IRA, gifting appreciated stock, or using a donor-advised fund, your contribution to Hearing Health Foundation can make a meaningful difference.

Cochlear implants work differently from hearing aids. Instead of making sounds louder, they bypass the damaged parts of the inner ear and send signals directly to the brain, allowing individuals to perceive sound more clearly.