Hearing changes are not always obvious. Difficulty following conversations, repeatedly asking people to speak again or increasing the volume of everyday devices can be important signs that your hearing should be checked.
Hearing loss can develop gradually, and people may sometimes become accustomed to changes before realising how much their hearing has changed. Recognising everyday communication difficulties can help you decide when it is time to arrange a professional hearing assessment.
You may lose track of who is speaking or miss words when several people are talking.
Restaurants, markets and social events may make speech especially difficult to understand.
Voices on a phone may sound less clear because visual communication clues are unavailable.
You may need the television or other devices louder than family members prefer.
Often needing people to say things again.
Regularly increasing TV or phone volume.
Losing track when several people are talking.
Struggling with speech in busy environments.
Finding telephone conversations less clear.
Feeling that other people are mumbling.
Noticing doorbells, alarms or calls less easily.
Ringing or buzzing may occur with hearing loss.
Get your hearing professionally assessed.
Identify situations where hearing is hardest.
Reduce unnecessary exposure to harmful sound.
Tell your audiologist what you are noticing.
Follow professional hearing-care recommendations.
Do not ignore persistent hearing changes.
