Hearing health is closely linked with overall wellbeing, which is why it’s important to look after it.
Principal Clinical Audiologist, Pooja Bontu, says regular checks can help identify problems early, allowing them to support patients with the right solutions – whether that’s hearing devices, tinnitus support, balance advice or simple hearing health strategies.
“Many people delay getting their hearing checked for years, but hearing care can make a huge difference to daily life,” she says.
Pooja’s extensive qualifications include 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.
Working in audiology has always been a dream for Pooja after she says she realised how much hearing can affect daily lives.
“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.”
A rewarding profession, Pooja says she started Candid Hearing because she wanted a service that had a focus on personalised care.
“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.”
According to Pooja, her choice in name was very intentional, reflecting their values in open, honest, candid and patient-focused care.
“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.”
Pooja says one of her favourite parts of the job is seeing the moment her patients realise how much better they can hear.
“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.
Declining health, she 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.”
Conditions, such as tinnitus, can become distressing if people are not guided on how to manage it.
Similarly, Pooja says issues with balance can also affect confidence and mobility, an equally distressing outcome without careful guidance, which is why she offers comprehensive balance assessments.
“While ear health is often associated primarily with hearing, the inner ear plays a crucial role in maintaining balance,” she says.
“Balance problems can cause dizziness, vertigo and unsteadiness, which may increase the risk of falls – particularly in older adults.
“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.
Safe, non-invasive and providing vital insights into the causes of imbalance, Pooja says early diagnosis is essential, as many disorders can be effectively managed through treatment, vestibular rehabilitation or repositioning procedures.
“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.
“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.”
Candid Hearing has several practices across ACT, with Pooja visiting her practice in Yass on Fridays from 9:00am to 5:00pm.
Candid Hearing, 153 Comur Street, Yass, NSW. Call 0414690044 or visit candidhearing.com.au.
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