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.
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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
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- I have a problem hearing over the telephone.
- I have trouble following the conversation when two or more people are talking at the same time.
- People complain that I turn the TV volume too high.
- I have to strain to understand conversations.
- I miss hearing some common sounds like the phone or the doorbell ringing.
- I have trouble hearing conversations in a noisy background such as a party.
- I get confused about where sounds come from.
- I misunderstand some words in a sentence and need to ask people to repeat themselves.
- I especially have trouble understanding the speech of women and children.
- I have worked in noisy environments (assembly lines, jackhammers, jet engines, etc.).
- Many people mumble when they talk, or don’t speak clearly.
- People get annoyed because I misunderstand what they say.
- I misunderstand what others are saying and make inappropriate responses.
- I avoid social activities because I cannot hear well and fear I’ll reply improperly.
- 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