Spotting hearing loss in busy places: Rob’s journey to better hearing
28 November 2024
For 72-year-old Rob Kneale, the signs of hearing loss first appeared in noisy settings. In places like cafes or restaurants, he found himself straining to hear, putting it down to just getting older.
But discovering potential hearing loss while in busy locations is not uncommon.
Research from Hearing Australia’s National Acoustic Laboratories (NAL) reveals that one of the most commonly reported symptoms of hearing loss for older adults results from exposure to noisy conditions, such as cafes or restaurants1.
“I found it difficult to hear the TV sometimes and it was very hard for me to hear properly in a restaurant situation,” said Rob.
“I didn’t put it down to hearing loss though. I thought it was just a part of getting older.”
Everything changed when Rob stumbled upon an article in his local library newsletter about free 15-minute hearing checks by Hearing Australia. Intrigued, he visited Niddrie Library for a quick, comfortable test, which revealed he had hearing loss in both ears.
“The check was easy, thorough and comfortable and they explained the process and results clearly.”
Following the check, Rob was referred to an audiologist at the Hearing Australia centre in Moonee Ponds where he underwent a more extensive hearing assessment, and learnt what his options would be, including accessing the latest in hearing aid technology.
“I realised it was going to help me, so I was looking forward to getting the hearing aids,” Rob said.
“Nevertheless, I was unsure how I would go wearing hearing aids, but they’re comfortable and I’m not conscious of wearing them. I felt that Hearing Australia were professional and my experience with them has been excellent.
“Hearing loss is a gradual thing that you’re not consciously aware of, but [after the check] I am now fully aware of the level of my hearing loss,” Rob said.
“For anyone considering getting a free 15-minute hearing check I say do it.”
