Hearing loss is no joke, so do have that test
HEARING loss hits the social lives of more than 90 per cent of people living with the condition, says a recent survey entitled Loud And Clear. Almost one in five says that they stopped going to social occasions after developing untreated hearing loss. Many report difficulties hearing in pubs, restaurants and bars — and 81 per cent feel they are missing out when a joke is told. Almost half say their partner and family make a joke of their hearing loss. However, 81 per cent of people say they have waited more than a year before seeking professional help for hearing loss. And a quarter admit to putting off addressing their hearing problems for five years or more. The first signs of hearing loss can be subtle and emerge slowly, or you can become aware of them quite suddenly. If you are experiencing difficulty understanding what people say and often have to ask them to repeat it, or you strain to hear in a theatre, church or restaurant, it’s time to arrange a free hearing test. In fact, everyone aged 50 and over who has not had a hearing check, should have one. When you book a free hearing test appointment, an audiologist will take time to listen and understand your hearing challenges, as well as talking about the available hearing solutions that can be tailored to you, so that you can enjoy being part of conversations. Modern hearing aids are designed to be as sleek and discreet as possible, to help you hear the world around you with clarity. Solutions range from tiny, almost invisible styles that fit inside the ear, to those that sit comfortably behind the ear. You can even select devices that connect wirelessly to your smartphone. These small, light aids will help you make the most of your listening experiences, whether you are watching TV, at the theatre or a social occasion.