Hearing health is often overlooked until issues arise, but regular hearing tests are crucial for preventing long-term damage. In March, during Hearing Awareness Month, Amplifon is encouraging everyone to take a proactive approach to their hearing health. Here’s everything you need to know about when and why you should get your hearing tested.
Understanding how we hear can help you appreciate the importance of regular hearing tests. Our ears are complex organs made up of three main parts: the outer ear, the middle ear, and the inner ear. Sound waves travel through the outer ear, vibrate the eardrum, and are amplified in the middle ear. These vibrations reach the inner ear, where tiny hair cells in the cochlea convert them into electrical signals that are sent to the brain.
Over time, these hair cells can become damaged, either due to age, loud noise exposure, or other factors, leading to hearing loss.
There are several types of hearing loss, including sensorineural hearing loss, caused by damage to the hair cells or the auditory nerve, and conductive hearing loss, which occurs when sound is blocked from reaching the inner ear.
Understanding what causes hearing loss is the first step to protecting your hearing health. Learn more about the common reasons behind hearing loss and how you can prevent it.
A hearing test, also known as an audiometry test, is a simple and non-invasive procedure used to assess your ability to hear sounds at different pitches and volumes. The test is designed to detect early signs of hearing loss, even before you notice symptoms. During the test, an audiologist will play sounds through headphones, and you’ll be asked to respond when you hear them.
You should consider getting a hearing test if you experience any of the following risk factors:
Even if you’re not noticing any issues, getting a regular hearing test is important for detecting problems early and preventing further damage. It's also essential if you have a history of hearing loss in your family or have been exposed to loud environments like construction sites, concerts, or military service.
The frequency of hearing tests depends on your age and risk factors. Here are some general guidelines to follow:
Getting a hearing test is about much more than just identifying hearing loss; it's an important part of preventative healthcare. As we age or expose ourselves to loud noises, our hearing becomes more vulnerable. By detecting issues early, you can take steps to prevent permanent damage.
Hearing loss can impact every aspect of your life – from communication and relationships to work and safety. In fact, untreated hearing loss can lead to feelings of isolation, stress, and even depression. But the good news is that early intervention, such as using hearing aids or making adjustments to your environment, can significantly improve quality of life.
Taking care of your hearing health is a form of prevention. By addressing hearing loss early on, you can ensure that you continue to enjoy all the sounds of life, from conversations with loved ones to the world around you. Remember, prevention is always better than cure – and with a simple hearing test, you can stay ahead of potential issues.
There are steps you can take to protect your hearing. Discover practical tips and expert advice on how to prevent hearing loss.
A hearing test involves a series of sounds at various frequencies and volumes, presented through headphones. The audiologist will record your responses to these sounds to determine the softest sound you can hear at different pitches.
Your audiologist will guide you through the results and discuss the next steps, which might include recommending hearing aids, assistive devices, or lifestyle changes.
A hearing test typically takes between 15 to 30 minutes. The process is quick, easy, and non-invasive, allowing you to fit it into your schedule with minimal disruption. If further tests are required, such as a speech audiometry test or tympanometry, the appointment might take a little longer.
Hearing tests can be performed at a variety of healthcare providers, including audiologists, ENT specialists, and hearing care centres. At Amplifon, we offer professional hearing tests at our clinics across Australia, and our quick 15 minute hearing check is completely free. Our experienced audiologists will assess your hearing and discuss the best options to suit your needs.
Yes, you can take a basic hearing test online, which can help you identify potential hearing issues. Online tests typically assess your ability to hear different frequencies and detect speech in noisy environments. However, they are not a substitute for a professional hearing assessment conducted by an audiologist, as they cannot diagnose the exact type or degree of hearing loss.
At Amplifon, we offer a 10-step online hearing test that provides an initial evaluation of your hearing, including how well you hear in environments with background noise. This can be a helpful first step before scheduling a full, in-person hearing assessment.
Taking care of your hearing is vital to your overall health and well-being. During Hearing Awareness Month, make sure to prioritise your hearing health by scheduling a hearing test. Whether you're over 60, regularly exposed to loud noises, or simply want to ensure your hearing is in top condition, regular tests can help detect any issues early on.
Don’t wait until it’s too late – book your hearing test today and take the first step towards maintaining your hearing health for years to come.
In Australia, hearing tests may be free for eligible individuals under government programs such as the Hearing Services Program (HSP), which provides free hearing tests and subsidised hearing aids to pensioners, veterans, and other eligible groups. Some private clinics also offer free basic hearing checks, while comprehensive assessments may have a fee.
At Amplifon, our 15 minute hearing check is completely free, allowing you to check your hearing health with no obligation.
The cost of a hearing test in Australia varies depending on the provider and the type of test. Basic tests can range from $30 to $150, while more comprehensive assessments might cost more. Some private health insurance plans may cover part of the cost, and government programs may offer subsidies for eligible individuals.
At Amplifon, our 15 minute hearing check’s are free, giving you the opportunity to assess your hearing with professional support at no cost.
