Hearing loss is a gradual process and you may not be aware it’s happening. This easy test can help determine if you may have hearing loss.

1. Do you miss some phrases while watching TV?
2. Do you miss some of the words spoken by a woman or child?
3. Do you have difficulty understanding conversations when there is background noise from the street or in the car, for example?
4. Do you have difficulty understanding when several people are talking at once (at dinners, parties)?
5. Do you have trouble talking on the phone?
6. Do you have trouble hearing the doorbell or telephone?
7. Do some noises bother you (clinking dishes and cups, household appliances, motors)?
8. Do you find music to be less enjoyable?

If you answered “yes” to at least one question, you may want to talk with an Amplifon Licensed Hearing Aid Specialist to determine if you have some degree of hearing loss.

Care and prevention
Hearing is a precious gift that must be safeguarded, and prevention plays a key role. After age 45, it’s a good idea to have periodic hearing checks. Your hearing, like the rest of your body, begins to wear out early on. If you are exposed to loud or prolonged noise, or know you have a hearing problem, you should have an annual hearing checkup, starting at a younger age.

Noise is the number one danger
Having checkups is not enough. Noise pollution can be harmful. It’s important to protect yourself from noise for prolonged periods of time and at work. Also, avoid listening to high-volume music on headphones.