Hearing loss can happen at any age. According to RNID, there are around 9 million people who are deaf or hard of hearing in the UK. Most of them have lost their hearing gradually with increasing age. Over half of people aged over 60 are hard of hearing or deaf. Hearing loss can also occur at a younger age. There are about 123,000 people over 16 who were born hearing but have developed severe or profound deafness.
You may have a hearing problem if you experience any of the following:
- Others complain that you have turned the TV or Radio up too loud
- People appear to mumble or you can't clearly hear every word that is being said particularly when there is background noise, in crowds or when voices are high pitched (e.g. children)
- You ask others to repeat themselves
- You have difficulty hearing the doorbell or the telephone ring
- You have difficulty hearing at a distance in public gatherings, concert halls, churches etc
- You are not sure where sounds are coming from - in front of or behind you, or even from left or right
You can try the free online screening test to analyse the severity of your hearing loss. However, if you suspect that you have any of these symptoms, it will be in your best interest to book an appointment as soon as possible to see a registered hearing aid dispenser to get a free screening or diagnostic hearing test.