The Brain’s Role in Hearing: A New Frontier in Audiology

Could Your Brain Hold the Key to Better Hearing?

By Adriana Rolim, Audiologist | Founder of MultiSound Rio

As a new resident of Connecticut and an audiologist for over 15 years, I’ve worked with patients across all walks of life — and one pattern has always stood out:

Some people adapt beautifully to hearing aids. Others, even with advanced technology, still struggle to understand conversations. Why?

The answer may surprise you: it’s not just about your ears — it’s about your brain.

Your Brain Can Learn to Hear Again

Two recent scientific studies are helping reshape how we approach hearing loss. Instead of seeing it as just an “ear problem,” researchers are showing how vital the brain is in the process of hearing — and more importantly, in the process of hearing better.

A 2023 study led by audiologists Crystal Y. Ruan and Larry E. Humes found that older adults who completed simple, at-home auditory training exercises showed measurable improvement in how their brains processed speech.

This means that hearing aids alone aren’t always enough. Just like physical therapy after a knee surgery, the brain sometimes needs rehabilitation to understand sound again.

The Brain and Ear Work as a Team

Another study — from the Keck School of Medicine and Baylor College of Medicine — discovered that the brain actually controls how sensitive the inner ear is to sound. This brain-to-ear communication could help explain frustrating conditions like tinnitus or hypersensitivity to sound — and open new doors for treatment.

What This Means for Our Community

Soon, I’ll be opening MultiSound Connecticut, a hearing center built on a powerful idea: that hearing care should include both the ears and the brain. We’ll combine advanced technology with personalized auditory training and education for families — all rooted in compassion and science.

As a proud mom and local professional, I believe hearing well is essential to living well. My goal is to help our community connect, communicate, and truly listen — with clarity and confidence.

About the Author

Adriana Rolim is a licensed audiologist, originally from Brazil, where she founded MultiSound Reabilitação Auditiva in Rio de Janeiro. With a background in clinical care and social outreach, she is now preparing to open MultiSound Connecticut, bringing a brain-centered approach to hearing health.

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