LACE AI Pro: Training Your Brain to Listen Better

LACE AI Pro: Training Your Brain to Listen Better

by | Jul 10, 2026 | Hearing Aid

Hearing is not only about the ears

Hearing aids can make sounds more audible. They can help bring speech, environmental sounds and everyday conversations back into clearer reach.
But hearing is not only about making sound louder.
Your brain also needs to detect, organise, interpret and make sense of the information it receives. This is especially important in difficult listening environments, such as restaurants, group conversations, meetings, family gatherings and other places where background noise competes with speech.
That is where auditory training may help.
At Ear & Hearing Australia, we may recommend LACE AI Pro as part of a broader hearing rehabilitation plan for suitable clients.

What is LACE AI Pro?

LACE stands for Listening and Communication Enhancement.
LACE AI Pro is a structured auditory training program designed to help people practise listening skills through guided exercises completed at home.
It is designed to support the brain’s ability to process speech and sound, particularly when listening becomes more demanding.
Depending on the program and individual plan, training may focus on areas such as:
Understanding speech in background noise
Following rapid speech
Listening attention
Listening memory
Processing competing sounds
Communication confidence in challenging environments
LACE AI Pro is not a hearing aid, and it does not replace a hearing assessment, medical care or professional hearing-aid fitting.
Instead, it can be used as an additional rehabilitation tool for people who may benefit from structured listening practice.

Why hearing aids may not solve every listening difficulty

A person can have well-fitted hearing aids and still find certain situations difficult.
This does not necessarily mean the hearing aids are not working.
Speech understanding is influenced by many factors, including the degree and type of hearing loss, background noise, room acoustics, attention, memory, fatigue, communication habits and how long the brain has been receiving reduced sound information.
Hearing aids can improve access to sound. However, they cannot completely remove the challenge of listening in every environment.
Auditory training is based on the idea that listening skills can be practised, much like physical rehabilitation helps people practise movement after injury or surgery.
The aim is not perfection. The aim is to build stronger listening skills, greater confidence and more effective strategies for real-life communication.

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Why the first fitting is only the beginning

A hearing aid fitting is an important milestone, but it is not the finish line.

During the early stages of hearing-aid use, people need time, guidance and professional support. They may need help learning how to insert, remove, charge and clean their devices. They may need assistance connecting to a phone, television or accessories. They may also need gradual adjustments to achieve the right balance of clarity, comfort and natural sound.

Fine-tuning is not simply changing the volume.

It is a clinical process that considers how the hearing aids are performing in real life, how comfortable they feel, which situations remain difficult and how your hearing needs may change as you adapt.

For some people, loudness perception has changed after years of reduced hearing. Sounds that are normal may initially feel too loud or overwhelming. With appropriate programming, counselling and review, we can help guide the process of adaptation more comfortably and safely.

Who may benefit from auditory training?

LACE AI Pro may be considered for people who:

  • Have recently started using hearing aids
  • Feel that speech remains difficult to follow in noise
  • Find group conversations tiring
  • Struggle with fast talkers or competing voices
  • Want to make the most of their hearing technology
  • Experience listening fatigue
  • Want structured home-based practice between appointments
  • Are motivated to work on listening skills as part of their rehabilitation plan

It may also be useful for people who do not yet use hearing aids but experience specific listening difficulties and have been assessed by an audiologist.

However, auditory training is not suitable or necessary for everyone. The decision should be based on your hearing assessment, goals, listening challenges, motivation and overall care plan.

What does the training involve?

LACE AI Pro is designed to make auditory training accessible from home.

The program uses structured exercises that gradually challenge listening and speech-processing skills. Your progress can be tracked over time, allowing your audiologist to discuss your experience, identify areas of difficulty and adjust your rehabilitation plan where needed.

The most important factor is regular, realistic practice.

Like any rehabilitation exercise, progress can vary. Some people notice greater confidence quickly, while others benefit most from combining training with hearing-aid fine-tuning, communication strategies and ongoing clinical guidance.

The aim is to build useful listening habits over time—not to create pressure or unrealistic expectations.

LACE AI Pro is part of a bigger plan

At Ear & Hearing Australia, we do not view auditory training as a standalone product.

LACE AI Pro may be recommended alongside:

  • Comprehensive hearing assessment
  • Hearing-aid fitting and verification
  • Fine-tuning appointments
  • Counselling and education
  • Communication strategies
  • Family or communication-partner support
  • Assistive listening devices or remote microphones
  • Ongoing hearing reviews

This is important because every person’s hearing journey is different.

Some people may need changes to their hearing-aid programming. Others may benefit from a remote microphone for work or social settings. Some may need support with listening fatigue, tinnitus or family communication. Others may benefit from structured auditory training.

The right plan is the one that addresses your actual needs.

What LACE AI Pro cannot do

It is important to be clear about what auditory training can and cannot do.

LACE AI Pro does not cure hearing loss.

It does not replace hearing aids when hearing aids are clinically recommended.

It does not replace medical assessment when there are signs of ear disease, sudden hearing changes, dizziness, pain or other concerns that require medical attention.

It is also not a guarantee that every difficult listening situation will become easy.

Rather, it is a practical rehabilitation tool that may help strengthen listening skills and support confidence when used consistently as part of an appropriate care plan.

Better hearing starts with a complete approach

Better hearing often requires more than amplification.

It may involve understanding your hearing loss, setting realistic goals, selecting the right technology, learning communication strategies, allowing time for adaptation and supporting the brain’s ability to process sound.

LACE AI Pro can be one useful part of that journey.

Our audiologists can discuss whether auditory training may be suitable for you and how it could fit into your broader hearing rehabilitation plan.

Learn More About LACE AI Pro
Book a Hearing Rehabilitation Consultation

References

Boothroyd, A. (2007). Adult aural rehabilitation: What is it and does it work? Trends in Amplification, 11(2), 63–71.
Olson, A. D. (2015). Options for auditory training for adults with hearing loss. Seminars in Hearing, 36(4), 284–295.
Miller, J. D., Watson, C. S., Kistler, D. J., Wightman, F. L., & Preminger, J. E. (2015). Evaluation of speech-perception training for hearing-aid users. Journal of the American Academy of Audiology, 26(1), 34–48.
Neurotone AI. (2026). LACE Pro auditory training platform.

Introducing Our Brand-New Toorak Clinic

Introducing Our Brand-New Toorak Clinic

by | Apr 23, 2025 | News

We’re excited to announce the opening of our new Ear and Hearing Australia clinic in Toorak!

Visit us at:
462 Toorak Road, Toorak (Opposite Coles)

At our new Toorak clinic, you’ll receive the same expert, personalised care we’re known for. Our comprehensive audiology services include:

  • Hearing assessments (adults and children aged 7 months and older)
  • Hearing aid fittings & repairs
  • Tinnitus assessments and management
  • Microsuction earwax removal
  • Services for pensioners, veterans, NDIS participants, and WorkCover clients

We remain proudly independent – not owned by hearing aid manufacturers or large chains. This means you’ll receive unbiased advice and care that puts your hearing health first. Plus, enjoy off-street parking and easy access to public transport.
We look forward to welcoming you to our new Toorak location!

 

📅 Book Your Appointment

Booking an appointment at our Toorak clinic is simple:​

Toorak operating hours are:​

  • Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM

  • Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

How To Convince a Family Member to Wear a Hearing Aid

How To Convince a Family Member to Wear a Hearing Aid

by | Oct 10, 2022 | Hearing Aid

How To Convince a Family Member to Wear a Hearing Aid

Convincing a family member to try wearing a hearing aid can be tough. The conversation is often fraught with emotion and tends to lead nowhere as both parties butt heads. Trying a softer approach may yield better results and our tips below can help you guide your loved one onto the right path for better hearing.

#1 Take time to listen first

Although the solution to poor hearing may seem straightforward to you, there are many reasons your loved one may be resistant to trying hearing aids. For some, they’re worried about the way the hearing aid looks and how they will be perceived (eg, getting old). Others may be influenced by the negative stories of their hearing aid wearing peers who are dissatisfied with their experience. Don’t make assumptions and take the time to really listen. Oftentimes it’s not just a case of being stubborn, but rather justifiable concerns that have simple solutions. You don’t have to have all the answers – that’s where an audiologist comes in! – but it is important that your loved one knows you’re on their side and want to work with them.

#2 Focus on the positives!

Using fear as a motivator can cause your loved one to experience unnecessary anxiety and confusion about their choices, leading to further inaction. Try to talk to your loved one about the benefits they can expect to gain from wearing hearing aids rather than the negatives of not doing so. For example, instead of saying “If you don’t wear hearing aids you’re going to miss out on everything that’s said at the party next week”, try saying, “If you wear hearing aids, you’ll be able to really enjoy the speeches made at the party next week”. By framing the use of hearing aids around the potential benefit and reward they can expect, your loved one will be more motivated to use them. The more specific you can be with names, places and events that are important to your loved one, the easier it will be for them to imagine a life where hearing aids provide those benefits.

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#3 Be willing to provide support

Hearing loss can be an extremely isolating experience as it hampers communication and separates people from their loved ones. Yet, many individuals with hearing loss will go through their hearing journey alone, without attendance of loved ones at their appointments and with minimal support at home. Be willing to take that extra step and assure your loved one that you will be there with them throughout the journey. Attend their appointments and provide a different perspective on their experience, learn how to manage their hearing aids along with them and provide support at home when they struggle with handling their devices. Audiologists love when family members attend appointments so don’tfeel shy to come along and ask as many questions as needed to help you understand the situation.

Studies show that people with hearing problems who did not wear a hearing aid were more likely to report sadness and depression, anxiety, paranoia, emotional problems, insecurity, and reduced social activities.

Ready for the Next Step?

If you have been able to convince a family member to try hearing aids or have their hearing tested, then call up for an appointment with one of our qualified audiologists on 1300 761 667.

 

Make an Appointment
Tinnitus: Will the Ringing Ever Stop?

Tinnitus: Will the Ringing Ever Stop?

by | Feb 24, 2022 | Hearing Aid, Tinnitus

Tinnitus: Will the Ringing Ever Stop?

Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, is a very common condition affecting approximately 1 in 4 Australians. Tinnitus can present in multiple forms such as ringing, chirping, buzzing, humming and many more. Technically speaking, tinnitus means perceiving sound when no external sound is present. Tinnitus often comes as a result of an underlying condition such as hearing loss, ear injuries, or problems with the circulatory system and often can be managed or helped with the treatment of the underlying condition.

If you suffer from this tinnitus, it is quite normal to feel tense, irritable, or even frustrated. It can affect your concentration, sleep, and even exacerbate depression and anxiety. If you have been struggling with tinnitus and it has affected your everyday life, it may be time to reach out. Audiologists, otherwise known as hearing professionals, are here to help. We are trained to evaluate your hearing and provide treatment options and/or recommend further referral if required.

Tinnitus can be caused by a number of things (see below), but the two most common causes are hearing loss and noise exposure.

  • Noise-induced hearing loss
  • Age-related hearing loss
  • Ear diseases and disorders
  • Extreme stress or trauma
  • Degeneration of the hair cells in the cochlear
  • Ear problems, such as otosclerosis (fixation of the tiny stirrup bone in the middle ear)
  • Meniere’s disease (swelling of a duct in the ear)
  • Some medications.
  • Head trauma
  • Large doses of certain drugs such as aspirin (always check with your doctor whether the medication they are prescribing has a side effect of causing or exacerbating the condition)
  • Compacted ear wax
  • Middle ear infections
  • Jaw misalignment (specifically, dysfunction of the joint connecting the jaw to the bone under the ear)
  • Perilymph fistula (a hole in the inner ear, allowing fluid to escape)
  • Certain types of tumours
  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Thyroid disorders

Now that we know some conditions which can cause tinnitus, it’s important to know what can make it worse and how to avoid them. The three major factors that can exacerbate tinnitus are loud noise exposure, stress and fatigue, and use of some medications.

Noise Exposure

Working in noisy surroundings, listening to loud music (both at concerts and through headphones), playing musical instruments, and exposure to other loud noises without using special protective equipment increases the risk of developing tinnitus as well as hearing loss. Even a single incident of exposure to an extremely loud noise (such as fireworks or other explosions, or a gunshot fired close to the ear) can result in tinnitus or hearing loss.

Earplugs or other hearing protection often prevent tinnitus that may otherwise be caused by excessive noise. You should always wear hearing protection in noisy environments, even if you do not find the noise uncomfortable. Hearing loss at higher frequencies is often painless, and the most common result is tinnitus.

Stress & Fatigue

There is some evidence that stress makes tinnitus worse. Although stress is part of everyday life, you can take steps to reduce stress levels by using relaxation and stress management techniques that help you stay calm, think positively, and focus your energies outward and away from the tinnitus.

Hypnotherapy can help with relaxation and cognitive behavioural therapy, offered by clinical psychologists, can help you to change the way you think about the condition, learn ways to focus your attention away from your tinnitus, and control the stress associated with the condition.

Medications & Other Substances

It is essential to tell your family doctor about your tinnitus; some common medications may cause it as a side effect or make your existing condition worse. Take special care with medications for arthritis, rheumatic diseases, some antibiotics, and anti-depressants. Excessive use of aspirin can also create issues; ask your doctor about alternatives if this is a concern.

Some foods and substances are also suspected of making tinnitus worse, although this has not been scientifically proven. While you don’t have to avoid them altogether, try easing off caffeine, quinine (tonic water), and alcohol as they can temporarily worsen tinnitus for some people. Carbohydrate-rich meals, like pasta, can have a calming or sedating effect, which can be helpful. However, give yourself time to digest your meal before you go to bed to avoid disturbed sleep.

Is There a Cure?

Even though there is currently no definitive cure for tinnitus, it is important to recognise that tinnitus does not have to affect your quality of life. This being said, there are techniques, management strategies, and treatments which can help reduce its effects on your life. Treatment options like Tinnitus Retraining Therapy, Surgery, Medications, and Hearing aids can help.

Regardless of the cause, it is important to speak with a professional about your worries and symptoms. Speak with your family doctor, audiologist/hearing professional or ear specialist to begin your journey towards overcoming tinnitus.

For more information, visit earandhearing.com.au or make an appointment to see one of our qualified audiologists.

Make an Appointment
Can Hearing Loss Really Lead to Memory and Cognitive decline?

Can Hearing Loss Really Lead to Memory and Cognitive decline?

by | Jan 27, 2022 | Hearing Loss

Hearing loss is more common than you might think, affecting over half of all Australians over the age of 60. It is often described as an invisible impairment, as it generally progresses slowly and most people learn tricks and strategies (ie. lip reading) to fill in the gaps. This, in conjunction with the stigma associated with hearing loss and hearing aids, has contributed to the fact people wait 7 to 10 years on average before seeking treatment. Some early signs that you, or someone you know, may have a hearing loss include increased difficulty hearing in noisy situations, others complaining that the TV is too loud, and frequently asking for people to repeat themselves. Even if you are unsure if you have hearing loss, it is always a good idea to get an audiometric test to objectively measure your hearing.

Why is hearing so important?

  • Conversation
  • Cognitive Health and Agility
  • Safety and Awareness

If you suspect you, or someone you know, are hard of hearing and are having increasing difficulties engaging in conversations, it is important to get it checked as soon as possible. 

More and more studies are showing that untreated hearing loss can lead to memory and cognitive decline of up 5 times faster than average. As the population ages and modern medicine enables us to live longer, we want to ensure we are ageing well and living as comfortably as possible. With research showing the links between hearing loss and cognitive decline, depression, anxiety, and many other comorbidities, it has never been more important to check your hearing health.

Finally, hearing loss does not only affect our hearing and cognition, but also plays a role in our safety and awareness. Balanced hearing allows us to determine the direction sounds, providing spatial and environmental cues to keep you safe when walking or driving. Studies have also shown that even a mild loss can triple your risk of falls over the age of 40. Another important safety consideration is knowing when the fire alarm, carbon monoxide detector or doorbell is ringing. Thankfully with technology advances today there are devices with flashing lights or vibration motors to alert you in an emergency. 

In summary, hearing is not only important for understanding speech but also plays a vital role in maintaining healthy mental, social and physical wellness. For more information about hearing loss and dementia, visit dementia.org.au.

Book an Appointment

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