Hearing loss and vision loss are often treated as separate issues. But when they occur together, the impact on daily life can be profound — from communication breakdowns to safety risks, dual sensory loss can affect independence, mental health, and overall quality of life.

In this episode, we sit down with Lachlan Smith, a clinician who is both an audiologist and an optometrist, to explore the unique challenges and opportunities for care when hearing and vision loss combine.

In this episode, we cover:

1. How hearing and vision loss compound each other in older adults
2. Why diabetes and other chronic conditions put patients at higher risk
3. The functional impacts on safety, independence, and social connection
4. Practical ways audiologists and optometrists can collaborate in care
5. Tips for communicating with patients who live with dual sensory loss
   (Guest introduction at 2:17 )

Whether you are an audiologist, an optometrist, a student, or simply passionate about ageing well, this episode offers insights into supporting older adults with complex sensory needs.

Tune in now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube — and don’t miss the final episodes of Inner Ear Secrets Season 2!
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