Free Hearing Checks for over 18’s

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 18 years and over have the opportunity to have free hearing checks when the Australian Hearing bus visits Geraldton Regional Aboriginal Medical Service (GRAMS) on August 18 from 9am to 2pm.

Australian Hearing will provide hearing awareness advice, measure people’s hearing and provide steps on the different options available if a patient’s hearing is suffering.

GRAMS chief executive Deborah Woods said, because hearing loss often occurred gradually with age, many people were unaware their hearing was diminishing.

“We’d encourage anyone concerned about their hearing, or those whose family complain about their hearing, to take advantage of this opportunity for a free hearing check,” Ms Woods said.

“It’s a great chance to find out how your hearing measures up – and learn what steps you can take if you’re having hearing problems.”

As well as having a hearing check, visitors to the bus can find information on a range of common hearing issues and view a display of easy-to-use hearing devices for around the home. This includes headsets for watching the TV and alert systems for doorbells.

Australian Hearing Geraldton manager Julie Faulkner said hearing loss was a prevalent issue in the community, with around 60 per cent of Australians over 60 suffering from some form of hearing loss.

“Not everyone who is experiencing problems hearing needs a hearing aid,” Ms Faulkner said.

“Sometimes it’s just hearing the TV at normal volumes, hearing your doorbell, or hearing your friends on the phone that’s the problem.”

Bookings can be made at GRAMS clinic or by calling 9956 6555.