Dr. Pamela Feehan has dedicated her audiology career to improving the lives of individuals affected by hearing loss. She has seen firsthand how hearing loss, if left untreated, can contribute to a range of serious health challenges, including cognitive decline.
Hearing is essential not only for communication, but for maintaining mental well-being and cognitive function. Dr. Feehan is passionate about educating families on the vital role of hearing in preventing dementia. “The brain processes everything we hear in our language center,” she explained. “When hearing loss impacts that process, the brain can begin to decline and lose abilities. But with the right treatment, we can help slow the decline.” Furthermore, hearing loss can exacerbate depression. “When you can’t hear, you withdraw from conversations,” Dr. Feehan went on, “and that isolation and the depression it causes can also contribute to earlier occurrences of dementia.”
In her practice, Dr. Feehan works with patients who have varying degrees of hearing loss, from those with age-related hearing decline to individuals who have been exposed to loud environments in their careers and lives. By fitting hearing aids and offering tailored guidance, she helps patients reconnect with their families, enhancing their overall quality of life. And according to Dr. Feehan, many patients may be surprised at how advanced hearing aids have become. “Some of the aids that we have today are just tremendously better than when I first got in the field,” she said.
For Dr. Feehan, the most rewarding part of her job is seeing the profound impact better hearing can have on life. As she puts it, “When you improve someone’s hearing, you improve their life. It’s foundational.” For Dr. Feehan, the long-term impact of better hearing is the greatest reward — helping people hear better, live better and understand better.
Pictured: Pamela Feehan
30 Knollwood Drive, Suite C
Rapid City, SD 57701
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