When most people think of hearing tests, they often associate them with aging or the need for hearing aids. However, hearing health is just as essential as vision, dental, and general wellness care, and it should be monitored regularly, even if you’re not currently experiencing noticeable hearing loss.
A common misconception about hearing loss is that it occurs suddenly. In reality, it is usually a gradual process. You might not realize your hearing is declining until it begins to interfere with your ability to communicate, enjoy conversations, or hear everyday sounds like birds chirping or the doorbell ringing. Regular hearing tests can detect these subtle changes early—before they start affecting your daily life.
Hearing health is closely linked to your overall health. Studies have shown that untreated hearing loss can increase the risk of:
By monitoring your hearing with regular tests, you can catch changes early and take proactive steps to protect your cognitive and emotional well-being.
As with most health conditions, early detection of hearing issues provides more treatment options. You might not need hearing aids right now—and that’s okay! A hearing evaluation could reveal that you only need some environmental adjustments, hearing protection for work or hobbies, or periodic monitoring. If hearing aids are necessary later, identifying the problem early can lead to better outcomes and an easier transition to assistive technology.
Even if you have perfect hearing now, having a baseline test is incredibly valuable. It allows audiologists to track any changes in your hearing over time. Just like getting your blood pressure or cholesterol checked annually, hearing tests are a vital part of preventive care.
Hearing tests are simple, painless, and non-invasive. During your appointment, you’ll sit in a soundproof booth and wear headphones while listening to various tones and spoken words. The entire process usually takes less than an hour, and the insight it provides is invaluable.
Even if you don’t need hearing aids right now, regular hearing tests are one of the best ways to protect your hearing—and your overall health—for years to come. Book your hearing screening today and take the first step toward lifelong hearing wellness.
Hello, I am Sarah! I have been an Audiologist since 2019 when I received my doctorate degree from A.T. Still University in Arizona and undergraduate degree from the University of Minnesota. I have a passion to help people with their hearing healthcare. Coming from a family with hearing impaired individuals, I know the importance for personalized hearing care and best Audiology practices. Raised in small town Minnesota, I enjoy my time being outside, on the golf course or on the lake up north. I have 2 young children who keep me on my toes and always laughing.
My name is Brooke, and I have been working at SoundGate Hearing since July of 2023. I love being a part of a team that puts the customers first. Being able to help others has always been a passion of mine. When I am not working, I love spending time with my family and traveling.
I have worked in a variety of roles in the hearing industry since graduating from Minnesota State University-Moorhead with a Bachelor of Science degree in Communications. I have worked at SoundGate Hearing since 2013 and have substantial experience with both the technical and business sides of the industry. I understand the fundamental need to provide strong support for our patients. I spend my free time away from the office with my active family. I enjoy a wide variety of activities, including travel, hiking, camping, fishing, and all things outdoors. I am a passionate hockey and soccer parent and fan.
Hello, I am Kara, and I am so excited to continue serving the Buffalo area and providing hearing care at SoundGate Hearing. I grew up in SW, MN, in a small town, and I love the sense of community that small towns offer. I have worked at SoundGate since 2019 and love the personalized care this clinic provides patients. In my free time, I enjoy reading, staying active, spending time outdoors, and soaking up as much lake time as I can in our short MN summers.
Welcome! I am Dr. Sarah Binfet and I have been a Doctor of Audiology since 2006. I proudly served Veterans at the Minneapolis VA for nearly 9 years. I established Blaine Hearing Center in 2013 in conjunction with my husband's optometric practice. It has been a wonderful partnership and enjoyable to see each other at work! In 2015, I had the opportunity to grow my practice when I purchased SoundGate Hearing from my mentor, Dr. Wendy Davis. I genuinely love what I do and feel that helping people hear is essential to their quality of life. I believe in creating a welcoming and supportive environment in which the patient and their families can be educated on their hearing loss, hearing aid options, and how to have the best success with their hearing aids. At SoundGate, we deeply care about our patients and their outcomes. We want everyone to genuinely enjoy their hearing aids and the benefits they bring. I am committed to offering my patients the most up to date digital hearing aid technology, which is why I carry a full line of manufacturers. There is no one right hearing aid for everyone. It is my job to help my patients navigate the complex works of hearing aids and decide on which products best meet their needs, goals and budget. I have discovered the benefit of giving patients the opportunity to trial hearing aids out of the office. A hearing aid trial is most helpful in navigating the complex journey of better hearing. A Minnesotan through and through, I was raised in Eden Prairie, MN, received my undergraduate degree from the University of St. Thomas and my Doctor of Audiology degree from the University of Minnesota. When not at work, you will find me cooking, hitting up the newest restaurants and fitting in as much yoga as possible. During the weekend, you will find my husband Rodney and me with our three kids, Evelyn, Jake and Sam, loving the outdoors at our family cabin on Leech Lake. I look forward to meeting you.
My name is Kathy, and I am a Hearing Instrument Specialist (HIS) with SoundGate Hearing. I have been in hearing health for 18 years. I am passionate about helping people live their best lives with the best hearing possible. Getting to know patients is a joy for me. My position is a lot like a Nurse Practitioner’s. I am licensed to perform many services to help you while I work with and for the Audiologists for your best care. In my spare time, you will find my husband and I enjoying our three busy grandsons, reading with my book club, traveling, and spending time with friends and family. I am so glad to be part of the SoundGate Hearing team.