Dr. Leslie Stone is the sole owner of Audio Care Hearing Services, which will now be known as Stone Audiology. Submitted photo

Audio Care Hearing Services, a longtime leader in Western New York audiology, underwent a change in name — but you can still expect the same high quality service.

Moving forward the business will be known as Stone Audiology, with third-generation owner Dr. Leslie Stone taking over the reigns following the retirement of her uncle, Tom Caruso.

Together, the pair started Audio Care in 2013, but their family business stretches back much further than that.

“If you go back in the industry, my grandfather Joseph Caruso actually started our family business in the 1960s,” Stone said. “When you sit down and think about it, we always call my grandfather the founder of this family (business). Just to be a part of it is truly amazing.”

Based in Jamestown, Joseph Caruso would travel all around the area to work with people who use hearing aids. Since those early days, audiology and the treatment of hearing loss has undergone significant changes.

After spending two years at Jamestown Community College, Stone transferred to Fredonia State University. Graduating with bachelor’s and master’s degrees, she proceeded to complete her doctor of audiology degree from Salus University in Elkins Park, Pa., in 2009.

Early on, Stone was not entirely sure if the family business was going to be the right path for her.

Working with her uncle as early as 2002, she quickly realized how rewarding it can be to watch patients regain their hearing abilities.

“My uncle had spoken to me about it. I wasn’t too keen on the idea at first, but as I looked into the industry and saw how much peoples lives were changed by being able to hear again, it really pushed me in this direction,” she said. “On a daily basis, I test and dispense hearing aids. There have been people who have sat in my chair and cried. The relationships I build with the patients have really improved my quality of life as well.”

Stone Audiology has offices at 560 W. Third St. in Jamestown, as well as in Chaffee, Olean and Belmont.

Thus far, the change has really been in name only.

“It’s actually been pretty seamless. Just following the day-to-day activities of what we have always done,” Stone said.

With three generations already in the family business, there is also a chance for a fourth.

Stone’s daughter is also considering the audiology business, but has no set plans as of yet.

For more information, the Jamestown office can be reached at 664-3000.