Like so many things in life, our hearing changes, but the transition to a quieter world happens so slowly that it can easily go unnoticed. That is why it is important to be able to recognize the telltale signs.
These questions cover a whole range of everyday listening situations, and will help you to make a quick assessment of your own hearing, or that of someone you love. If it reveals problems, make an appointment for a diagnostic hearing evaluation. As with most health conditions, the earlier you get a clear diagnosis, the more successful the outcome is likely to be.
- Do people seem to be mumbling?
- Do you have to strain to hear when someone talks or whispers?
- Do you have difficulty hearing when someone calls from behind or from another room?
- Do you need to watch a speaker’s lips more closely to follow the conversation?
- Do you find it hard to keep up in meetings, in restaurants, or in lectures?
- Do you listen to the TV or radio at a level that frustrates those around you?
- Do you find it hard to hear clearly on the telephone?
- Do you miss a lot of the dialogue when going to the theatre, cinema, or other entertainment venues?
- Do you find it hard to hear in noisy environments like in the street, in a car, or at family gatherings?
- Do you tend to limit your social activities because it is difficult to hear and communicate?
- Do family, friends, or colleagues mention that they often have to repeat themselves?
Only a hearing test can confirm a hearing loss. Have your hearing treated professionally for your own peace of mind and for the benefit of the relationships that are important to you.