Hearing Test

Hearing loss often develops gradually, making it hard to detect initially. In many cases, friends or family may notice changes before you do. Common signs that it’s time to book a hearing test include:

• Difficulty following conversations, especially in groups
• Frequently needing others to repeat themselves
• Struggling to hear clearly in noisy settings
• Experiencing ringing or buzzing in your ears (tinnitus)
• Turning up the TV or radio volume higher than usual

If you recognise any of these symptoms, scheduling a professional hearing assessment can help identify any issues and offer the right solutions to suit your needs.

A hearing assessment at Dove Hearing Centres is a comprehensive and personalised process designed to evaluate your hearing health. Our experienced audiologists will:

1. Discuss Your Hearing History: We’ll begin by asking about any challenges you’ve been experiencing, as well as your general health and lifestyle, to understand your unique needs.
2. Conduct Hearing Tests: Using advanced equipment, we’ll perform a series of tests in a soundproof environment to accurately measure your hearing ability.
3. Review the Results: Once the tests are complete, we’ll explain your results in detail, ensuring you fully understand your hearing profile.
4. Recommend Solutions: If any issues are identified, we’ll guide you through the options available, which could include tailored hearing aids, earwax removal, or regular check-ups.

Our goal is to provide you with clear information and practical solutions to help you hear your best.

The frequency of visits to your audiologist depends on your individual hearing needs. Initially, you may need several appointments for hearing aid fittings, fine-tuning, and adjustments to ensure your devices are perfectly suited to you.

After this, we recommend scheduling annual check-ups to:

• Monitor any changes in your hearing ability
• Ensure your hearing aids are functioning optimally
• Address any concerns or questions you may have

Regular visits help maintain your hearing health and ensure you continue to get the most out of your hearing aids. If you notice any sudden changes in your hearing, we encourage you to book an appointment as soon as possible.

Yes, modern hearing aids are designed with user-friendliness in mind, featuring advanced technology that’s simple to operate. While there may be a brief adjustment period as you get used to wearing and using them, our audiologists are here to support you every step of the way.

During your fitting, we’ll provide clear guidance on:

• How to wear and adjust your hearing aids
• Managing settings for different environments
• Proper care and maintenance to keep them in top condition

With a little practice and the right support, you’ll find that hearing aids can quickly become an effortless part of your daily routine, helping you reconnect with the sounds that matter most.

Hearing loss can gradually progress over time, especially if left unaddressed. However, regular hearing tests and timely interventions, such as wearing hearing aids, can significantly help manage and slow the impact of hearing loss.

By addressing hearing issues early, you can:

• Stay connected to the world around you
• Reduce the strain on your ears and brain
• Prevent potential complications associated with untreated hearing loss

Your audiologist will work with you to monitor your hearing health and recommend personalised strategies to maintain it. Regular check-ups and the proper use of hearing aids can make a big difference in preserving your quality of life.

Most hearing aids are not fully waterproof, but many modern devices are water-resistant. This means they can withstand light moisture, such as sweat or a small amount of rain, but they should not be submerged in water or exposed to heavy moisture.

To protect your hearing aids:

• Avoid wearing them while swimming, showering, or during activities involving water.
• Check the water resistance rating of your specific model—your audiologist can help clarify this.

If water exposure is a concern, your audiologist can recommend options designed to offer enhanced protection, ensuring your devices meet your lifestyle needs. Proper care and maintenance will also help keep your hearing aids in excellent condition.

On some occasions, hearing aid trials can be requested to ensure they’re the right fit for your lifestyle and hearing needs. During a trial period, you may have the opportunity to:

• Test their comfort and performance in different environments
• Experience how improved hearing enhances your daily activities
• Provide feedback to your audiologist for any necessary adjustments

Availability of hearing aid trials depends on individual circumstances, so we recommend discussing this option with your audiologist. Our aim is to help you make a confident and informed decision about your hearing care.