Whether you have an appointment or you’re considering whether to make the call, the thought of a hearing test can be overwhelming. But fear not! Our handy guide is here to help you understand what to expect and to help ensure that you are prepared for your hearing appointment.

1. Bring someone with you

It is a very good idea to bring someone with you – a family member or close friend. For one, when you bring someone along who knows you, they can give you emotional and moral support. Secondly, the person will help you remember information that the hearing care expert will share. Finally, the person you bring can give you another perspective on your hearing loss as a one who interacts with it on a regular basis.

2. Know what to expect

First, you will take a hearing screening. This is a pure tone hearing test where you put headphones on and listen to precise, clear sounds. You’ll hear a series of tones at different volumes. This determines how well you hear different frequencies of sounds.

Next, you’ll do a speech test where the hearing care expert will say several words and ask you to repeat them. This test determines how well you understand speech.

3. Prepare for success

Feeling prepared reduces anxiety and helps you get the most out of your hearing test. Try to answer these questions about your hearing:
• What hearing loss symptoms do you have? How long have you been experiencing them? Is your hearing loss in one ear or both? You could also ask people if they’ve noticed any changes in your hearing
• Have you had any chronic infections, injuries or surgeries related to your ears?
• Have you ever had a job that exposed you to loud noise?

Do you have any questions? Write them down so you are ready to ask your hearing care expert. And here’s a top tip: arrive at the clinic 15 minutes before your appointment.

4. Now is less stressful than later

Delaying your hearing test may increase the anxiety you feel about your need to take action. And if you do have a hearing loss, delaying treatment can actually make it harder to treat. This is because your ability to understand speech degenerates quicker if hearing loss is not treated.

Have you booked a hearing test? Find a clinic near you and schedule your hearing screening today.

Are you ready to start your journey to better hearing? If you are a Canadian over the age of 18 who may have hearing loss, book a free hearing test with us today!