Free hearing checks at Inverell Community Health
31 March 2010
Have you been putting off having a hearing test? Many people procrastinate about hearing loss, leaving it until it becomes embarrassing for them and their friends and family.
But there’s no reason to avoid a hearing test, according to Inverell nurse audiometrist Kirsty Biddle, who says the condition is more common than most people might think.
“One in six Australians have a hearing loss – many people believe that you have to be old to have a hearing problem, but hearing loss can affect people of any age,” Ms Biddle said.
“At some stage in our lives most of us will be exposed to sounds from MP3 players, iPods, chainsaws, rifles, or heavy machinery - all of these can have an impact on our hearing.”
There are many contributing factors to hearing loss, including family history, exposure to noise, age and some medical conditions.
Ms Biddle offers free hearing tests at Inverell Community Health Centre on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
She said it was important for people to understand what is happening with their hearing and learn ways to improve their communication.
“Sometimes this may involve using a hearing aid or some other device to assist with communication, and sometimes it is simple communication courtesy such as facing a person when speaking to them,” Ms Biddle said.
“Because nurse audiometrists do not fit or sell hearing aids, we are able to provide clients with information about their hearing so that they can then make an informed decision about what to do next. We can however, check hearing aids that are already fitted, if needed.”
“What is most important is that a person understands their hearing results, understands how having good hearing can improve their communication as well as the range of options available to them.”
Community members can refer themselves to see the nurse audiometrist at Inverell Community Health Centre. They can also be referred by a family member or friend, school or preschool teachers, or their local GP.
To make an appointment contact Inverell Community Health on 6721 9600.
A photo of the Inverell nurse audiometrist Kirsty Biddle is available on request.
(HNE-2212)
Contact: Carisa Green
Phone: 0428 106 183