Sound Scouts Wins Techquity Award: Revolutionizing Healthcare Access and Outcomes Through Collaboration

Award winning co-designed hearing app

In a remarkable achievement, Sound Scouts has been recognized on the global stage for its innovative hearing assessment app, earning the prestigious Techquity for Health Case Study Award at the ViVe 2025 conference in Nashville, USA. This award highlights the importance of health equity and the need for inclusive tech solutions that cater to everyone, including older and frail individuals.

Sound Scouts, a digital hearing screening company, collaborated with Maroba Caring Communities, Aged Care Research & Industry Innovation Australia (ARIIA), and FASTLab to co-design a solution that meets the diverse needs of aged care residents. This collaborative effort has resulted in an app that is not only user-friendly but also highly effective in detecting hearing issues among older Australians.

The project involved extensive user testing and feedback from residents of Maroba Caring Communities, ensuring the app was tailored to their specific needs. FASTLab's expertise in UX design was instrumental in creating an intuitive and accessible interface. The app, which leverages gaming technology, allows aged care residents to conduct hearing tests using simple equipment like headphones and a touchscreen device. This innovative approach has the potential to reduce social isolation, fall risk, and cognitive decline among older adults.

Sound Scouts CEO Carolyn Mee expressed her excitement about the award, stating, 

"We are thrilled to be recognized on the international stage. This award highlights the importance of health equity and the need for inclusive tech solutions that cater to everyone, including older and frail individuals."

ARIIA CEO Reuben Jacob also praised the project, saying, 

"Seeing the Sound Scouts project getting recognized globally for its impact in aged care is an amazing outcome. We are proud to support Australian innovators like Sound Scouts who are making a significant difference."

The success of the Sound Scouts app in Australia has opened up international opportunities, particularly in rural and remote communities where access to hearing assessments is limited. The app's ability to provide a standardized, evidence-based digital hearing screening process aligns with the Aged Care Quality and Safety's recommendations, ensuring holistic care for residents.

With the Techquity for Health Case Study Award, Sound Scouts has demonstrated the power of collaboration and innovation in addressing health disparities and improving the quality of life for older adults worldwide.

To learn more about the project, process, and FASTLab's involvement, watch the accompanying video that documents this collaborative journey.