Why Adults Need Hearing Tests
Hearing loss is not just a condition that affects older Australians. Adults of all ages can experience changes in their hearing due to noise exposure, illness, medication side effects, or genetic factors. In fact, Hearing Australia estimates that around 3.6 million Australians live with some degree of hearing loss, and many are under the age of 65.
For working-age adults, untreated hearing loss can have a significant impact on career performance, social relationships, and overall wellbeing. Research has linked untreated hearing loss to increased fatigue, social isolation, reduced earning potential, and even cognitive decline. The good news is that early detection and appropriate management can make a real difference.
A professional hearing test is the only reliable way to understand your hearing health. Many forms of hearing loss develop slowly, meaning you may not notice the changes until they begin affecting your daily life. A baseline hearing test gives you a clear starting point, and regular checks ensure any changes are caught early.
Signs to Watch For
Hearing loss often develops gradually, making it easy to overlook. If you experience any of the following, it is worth having your hearing professionally assessed:
- You frequently ask people to repeat themselves, especially in group settings
- You struggle to follow conversations in noisy environments like restaurants or meetings
- You turn the television or radio volume higher than others prefer
- You find it difficult to hear people on the phone
- You feel that others are mumbling or not speaking clearly
- You experience ringing, buzzing, or hissing sounds in your ears
- You feel tired after social gatherings from straining to hear
- You avoid social situations because it is hard to keep up with conversations
If one or more of these signs sounds familiar, our audiologists can help determine whether there is an underlying hearing issue and recommend the best course of action.
What Is Included in an Adult Hearing Test?
Our adult hearing assessment is a thorough evaluation that takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes. It includes the following components:
Detailed Case History
We discuss your medical history, lifestyle, noise exposure, and any hearing concerns to tailor the assessment to your needs.
Otoscopy
A visual examination of your ear canal and eardrum to check for wax blockages, infections, or structural issues.
Pure Tone Audiometry
Tones at different pitches and volumes are played through headphones, mapping the softest sounds you can hear across the frequency range.
Speech Testing
We measure your ability to hear and understand spoken words, which is often the most relevant measure of how hearing loss affects daily life.
Tympanometry
A quick, painless test of middle ear function that checks for fluid, pressure issues, or other conditions that may affect hearing.
After your assessment, your audiologist will explain your results clearly, answer any questions, and provide written recommendations. If hearing aids or further medical investigation are needed, we will guide you through every option.
How Often Should Adults Be Tested?
The recommended frequency of hearing tests depends on your age, risk factors, and whether you have any existing hearing concerns:
- Adults aged 18 to 45 with no known hearing issues: every three to five years
- Adults aged 46 to 60: every two to three years
- Adults over 60: annually
- Adults with known hearing loss or significant noise exposure: annually
- Anyone noticing changes in their hearing: as soon as possible
Regular hearing checks are just as important as routine dental or eye examinations. They help detect changes early, when management options are most effective, and provide peace of mind about your hearing health.
Book Your Adult Hearing Test
Do not wait until hearing difficulties affect your quality of life. Our experienced audiologists are here to provide a thorough, comfortable assessment with clear, honest recommendations.