Hearing Aids - Looking after your hearing

Hearing problems are a very common condition amongst older people. They can make it hard to understand people and follow a conversation, to hear the doorbell and to respond to warning. All this can be very frustrating, embarrassing and even dangerous.

Hearing loss can be caused by many factors, such as a build up of wax in your ears, or an infection. If your hearing difficulty is due to ageing, you will probably be offered a hearing aid to help you. You can get a hearing aid free from the NHS or you can buy one privately.

Have your hearing tested regularly. If you need a hearing aid, wear it!

How do I know if I have a hearing loss?

If you answer 'yes' to any of the following questions, you may have a hearing loss.

• Do people complain that you turn the TV volume up too high?
• Do you sometimes wish people would speak clearly and stop mumbling?
• Do you sometimes misunderstand what people say or do you often ask people to repeat themselves?
• Do you have trouble hearing when there is noise in the background?
• Do you ever have difficulty hearing the doorbell or telephone ring, or hearing people on the phone?
• Do you hear a ringing, roaring or hissing sound a lot?