Is Hearing The Forgotten Sense?

A new survey has revealed that eight out of ten people – 48 million Brits - have never had their hearing tested, compared to just one in ten who have never had an eye examination.

The poll of 4,000 people conducted by David Ormerod Hearing Centres found that three quarters of people over the age of 50 have never had a hearing test despite the fact that 40% of people in this age group will have some degree of hearing loss.

The survey coincides with the launch of Hearing Clearer Awareness Month, January 2007, which has been established to encourage people to get regular hearing tests - it is estimated that one in seven people in the UK has hearing loss and the average waiting time for a hearing test on the NHS is 47 weeks. It also found that two thirds of people have a friend or relative that they believe has undiagnosed hearing, whilst 27% know two or more people who they think could benefit from a hearing aid.

Half admitted they find it frustrating speaking to someone with hearing loss, whilst 41% are worried about losing their hearing. 80% would support a national hearing test screening programme and 62% believe their partner has selective hearing, although this might be undiagnosed hearing loss!

Hearing and quality of life are closely linked yet research shows that people often wait several years before seeking help. To encourage people to act, David Ormerod Hearing Centres are now offering free five-minute hearing assessments for anyone who is worried about their hearing. You can book an appointment in your local centre by calling 0845 270 3916.

Damian Barry, Chief Executive of charity Hearing Concern who are supporting Hearing Clearer Awareness Month, said: “People all too often struggle for years with hearing loss before facing up to it and going for a test. If you, a family member or a friend has problems with their hearing then we strongly recommend a hearing test. It could be the first step towards greatly improving your quality of life.”

It isn’t always easy to spot hearing loss because sounds can initially become distorted rather then quieter. Karen Shepherd, Audiological Services Manager at David Ormerod Hearing Centres, has put together these simple questions to help identify hearing loss:

• Do people always seem to be mumbling when they talk to you?
• Do you have trouble hearing the doorbell or telephone?
• Do you find it easier to follow a conversation if you are looking directly at the person speaking to you?
• Do you find it hard to follow a conversation in a group?
• Are you constantly asking people to repeat themselves?
• Do others complain that you have the volume turned up too high on the TV?

If you answered yes to any of the above questions, then it is worth booking a hearing test. It is also important to remember that hearing requirements change with time so even if you have already had a hearing test or have a hearing aid, it is advisable to arrange a check-up every twelve months.

For a free hearing loss information pack call 0845 270 3916. For further information on Hearing Clearer Awareness Month visit hearingclearer.co.uk.