OPSM has launched its first go-direct audiology service, with the goal of at least 10 practices by the end of the year, and additional locations to be consistently added over 2026.
With over 3.6 million Australians and over 880,000 New Zealanders currently experiencing hearing loss,1 the Group has identified “a critical opportunity and responsibility to expand into audiology services”.
In a statement OPSM said the rising prevalence of dual sensory impairment (dual loss of vision and hearing), which affects up to 3% of adults aged 60–69 and nearly 22% of those aged 80 plus, underscores the importance of integrated sensory care for helping to preserve independence, communication, and quality of life.2
Vision and hearing loss affect similar demographics, particularly older adults, and OPSM believes that “integrating eye and hearing tests in the same location provides a more holistic and efficient approach for our patients by addressing multiple sensory issues at a single point of service”.
Integrated Solutions
By adding hearing screenings, full hearing assessments, and hearing aid fittings to its optical services, OPSM now provides comprehensive sensory care under one roof.
Among the innovations aimed at helping those customers that experience mild to moderate heading loss is the recently launched Nuance Audio Glasses.
integrating eye and hearing tests in the same location provides a more holistic and efficient approach for our patients
This invisible open-ear hearing solution blends sound engineering and world-class smart eyewear design for a stylish, high-tech solution. Nuance Audio Glasses use directional microphones and open-ear speakers to provide a comfortable and natural listening experience. The product enables users to focus on the voices that matter most, strengthening their connections and making everyday experiences like dining in crowded restaurants or working in bustling offices more enjoyable and accessible.
“By bringing professional audiology services into our OPSM network we are extending our promise of Everyday Excellence to hearing health, offering comprehensive, coordinated care for those facing sensory decline. Together, we can better support our communities’ wellbeing, accessibility, and connection to the world,” commented Naomi Nicolinas, ANZ Director of Audiology Services at EssilorLuxottica.
The integrated approach is expected to lead to earlier detection of impairments and mitigate the negative impact of hearing and vision loss on quality of life.
References
- World Health Organization, World Report on Hearing, 2021. Available at: who.int/publications/i/item/9789240020481 [accessed Oct 2025].
- Heine C, Gong CH, Feldman S, Browning C. Older women in Australia: Facing the challenges of dual sensory loss. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2019 Dec 30;17(1):263. doi: 10.3390/ijerph17010263.
