"One in six Australians feel the effects of hearing loss, with three out of four people reporting hearing loss in the over 70 age group." *
Hearing loss can have a significant impact on a person’s life and if left untreated, it can restrict their economic, social, emotional and general quality of life, often leading to frustration, isolation, loneliness and depression. It is an ‘invisible’ problem so can sometimes be mistaken by others as a ‘lack of interest’ or indifference during conversation.
* Quoted from 'Listen Hear! The economic impact and Cost of Hearing Loss in Australia, Feb 2006
Common symptoms of Hearing Loss
TV uncomfortably loud for others
Asking people to repeat themselves.
Increasing difficulty understanding in background noise.
Missing out on high pitch or soft sounds, e.g. indicators in the car, microwave beeping, doorbell ringing.
Difficulties understanding on the telephone.
Difficulty with women’s and children’s voices.
It is recommended to have a full hearing assessment to ascertain the type and degree of your hearing loss, and to discuss the possible course of action for your particular circumstances. A further medical referral may be required and we will send hearing assessment reports to medical practitioners and specialists if necessary.
Types of Hearing loss Sensorineural Permanent hearing loss that effects the nerve of hearing, usually caused by excessive noise exposure or the ageing process. Other causes can be hereditary factors, an acoustic neuroma, or Meniere’s disease.
Conductive-Hearing loss Effects the middle ear structures or the outer ear. Common causes are, otitis media (glue ear), tympanic membrane perforations, or trauma to the middle ear ossicles.
Hearing Services Program (HSP) If you are an eligible pensioner or veteran, you may apply for a hearing services voucher. This includes people on a disability pension, or dependents of a pension card holder. Eligibility criteria can change, so for full details please call us on 6021 7500 for more information. Check your eligibility through the Hearing Services Program eligibility checker: Eligibility for the Hearing Services Program | Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care