Hearing bus in Ararat, Stawell

An Australian Hearing bus will visit Stawell and Ararat next week to offer free hearing checks and raise hearing-health awareness.

The bus will be at Safeway in Ararat between 9am and 4pm on Monday and Stawell Amcal Pharmacy on Tuesday.

Australian Hearing Horsham manager Angela Lonergan said age-related hearing loss developed gradually over time and it was common for people to miss warning signs.

“Hearing loss is a prevalent issue in the community,” she said.

“One in six Australians is affected by hearing loss. And with an ageing population this is expected to increase to one in four by 2050.

“A hearing check is a quick and easy way to measure the sounds you can and cannot hear.

“Our team will also be on hand to guide you through what next steps you might have to take in regard to your hearing.”

As well as having a hearing check, visitors to the bus can find information on a range of common hearing issues.

They can also view a display of hearing devices.

“Not everyone who is experiencing problems hearing needs a hearing aid,” Ms Lonergan said.

“Sometimes they might just need support listening to the TV at normal volumes, hearing at noisy social events, or hearing friends and family on the phone.”

No appointment is necessary. Australian Hearing will provide hearing checks to any adults over 18 who visit the bus on the day.