Hearing Australia is encouraging people to register for a free hearing check in March and there are multiple appointments available on the Central Coast.
Research shows that only 56 per cent of Australians have had a hearing test in their lifetime compared with 87 per cent who have had an eye test.
With one in six Australians currently experiencing hearing loss, and that number is expected to double to an estimated 7.8 million people by 2060, a regular hearing check can be life-changing.
To celebrate World Hearing Day on March 3, Hearing Australia is calling on Australians to take advantage of free 15-minute hearing checks on offer across the country throughout the month, as part of its Hearing the Nation Tour.
“Getting your hearing checked is a painless, quick and easy process that could have life-changing impacts,” Hearing Australia Managing Director Kim Terrell said.
“We know accessing medical check-ups can sometimes be a challenge, so we are holding more than 1,000 free hearing check events all across the country in March – making it easier than ever to look after your hearing health.”
Last year, more than 5,370 Australians had a free hearing check at one of the Hearing the Nation events that were held across Australia – from capital cities to outback towns.
Of those, 2,590 people needed a further assessment to diagnose the extent of their hearing loss and potential treatment options.
“This year we want to see even more people and we strongly encourage anyone who struggles to hear at home, in the office or at social events to act and get their hearing checked,” Terrell said.
Principal Audiologist Commercial Clinical Services Karen Hirschausen said detecting, diagnosing and treating hearing loss was a really important way for people to be able to better connect with their families, friends and community.
“It all starts with a free 15-minute hearing check by one of our friendly specialists,” she said.
“Education and early detection can be really important for most health issues and hearing is no different.
“Our team of hearing experts can provide hearing checks or referrals for further assessment or support, as well as advice on how to protect your hearing to prevent hearing loss.
“We have been delivering hearing services to Australians for more than 75 years, and we’re committed to making it easier for everyone to get hearing help, when and where they need it.
“Our teams live, work in, and are a part of, their local communities, and the Hearing the Nation events give us more opportunities to connect with people from regional and rural areas.”
The free hearing checks take around 15 minutes.
Check for your nearest available location by searching your postcode at hearing.com.au