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Our experienced audiologists work with adults of all ages to assess your hearing ability and offer you an individualized solution if you have hearing loss.

When to get a hearing test (signs of hearing loss)

A hearing test is recommended for anyone over age 50 – or sooner if hearing loss is suspected – to identify and address any hearing loss as soon as possible.

Common Signs of Hearing Loss

  • thinking that people mumble (you can hear people talking, but can’t make out the words)
  • having difficulty hearing in background noise
  • frequently asking people to repeat themselves
  • having difficulty understanding speech if someone is not looking directly at you
  • straining to hear
  • favouring one ear
  • turning the television or radio up louder than usual
  • having difficulty hearing on the telephone
  • avoiding certain social situations because you are not able to participate
  • speaking louder than necessary in conversation
  • ringing or buzzing in one or both ears
  • appearing dull and disinterested, slow to respond, or just not quite “with it”

What to expect at a hearing test

  • Your ear canals will be examined for wax or any medical issues. Referral to the Baycrest Ear, Nose and Throat clinic can be arranged if necessary through your physician.
  • Your hearing will be tested.
  • Your lifestyle and hearing needs will be assessed.
  • Together, you and your audiologist will decide which management options best meet your needs.
  • Any amplification devices recommended by the audiologist may be purchased at Baycrest.
  • Your audiologist will design and implement rehabilitation strategies for you and your loved ones.


How to book a hearing test

Hearing tests are covered by OHIP on referral from a physician.

Referrals should be faxed to 416 785 4213.

Please call for more information or to make an appointment at 416-785-2476 or Email us at hearing@baycrest.org.

Download the Physician Referral Form.

Home visits

For adults who cannot access our office due to physical, cognitive and/or psychiatric disabilities, or who would prefer hearing care at home, our hearing services may be provided in the home (for a fee) upon request.
  • Five Minute Hearing Test

    If you think you may have a hearing loss, take this 5 minute hearing test:

    Give yourself the following points for each answer to the questions below:

    • Almost always: 3 points
    • Half the time: 2 points
    • Occasionally: 1 point
    • Never: 0 points
    •  
    1. I have a problem hearing over the telephone.
    2. I have trouble following the conversation when two or more people are talking at the same time.
    3. People complain that I turn the TV volume too high.
    4. I have to strain to understand conversations.
    5. I miss hearing some common sounds like the phone or the doorbell ringing.
    6. I have trouble hearing conversations in a noisy background such as a party.
    7. I get confused about where sounds come from.
    8. I misunderstand some words in a sentence and need to ask people to repeat themselves.
    9. I especially have trouble understanding the speech of women and children.
    10. I have worked in noisy environments (assembly lines, jackhammers, jet engines, etc.).
    11. Many people mumble when they talk, or don’t speak clearly.
    12. People get annoyed because I misunderstand what they say.
    13. I misunderstand what others are saying and make inappropriate responses.
    14. I avoid social activities because I cannot hear well and fear I’ll reply improperly.
    15. Family members and friends have told me they think I may have a hearing loss.

    Your Total = _____

    Scoring:

    • 0 – 5 Your hearing is probably fine and no action is required.
    • 6 – 9 We suggest that you have your hearing evaluated by an Audiologist.
    • 10+ We strongly recommend that you have your hearing evaluated by an Audiologist