Hearing Australia is calling on Bundaberg Region residents who have never had a hearing test to register for a free hearing check in March.
The Hearing the Nation tour offers free 15-minute hearing checks across the country, including events in Bundaberg, Bargara, Childers, Woodgate and Gin Gin.
With World Hearing Day, 3 March, Hearing Australia managing director Kim Terrell has encouraged all Australians to take advantage of the free program.
“Getting your hearing checked is a painless, quick and easy process that could have life changing impacts,” Kim 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.”
Research shows that only 56% of Australians have had a hearing test in their lifetime, compared with 87% who have had an eye test.
With one in six Australians currently experiencing hearing loss, and that number expected to double to an estimated 7.8 million people in 2060, a regular hearing check can be life changing.
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,” Kim said.
Hearing Australia Principal Audiologist Commercial Clinical Services Karen Hirschausen said detecting, diagnosing and treating hearing loss was an important way for people to be able to better connect with their families, friends and their community.
“Education and early detection can be really important for most health issues and hearing is no different,” Karen said.
“Our team of hearing experts can not only provide hearing checks or referrals for further assessment or support, but also advice on how to protect your hearing to prevent hearing loss.
“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, with experts on hand to instruct participants through the short, painless process.
Head to the Hearing Australia website to find a local event and register to attend.
Other news:
