The First Step Toward Better Hearing
Have you noticed that you ask people to repeat themselves more often? Do you have difficulty following conversations in noisy environments? Do you suspect hearing loss in yourself or a loved one? Hearing screening is the essential first step in understanding your hearing situation and determining appropriate next steps.
What Is a Hearing Screening Test?
Hearing screening performed by an audioprosthetist is a preliminary verification of hearing. Its purpose is to identify the possible presence of signs of hearing loss in order to guide individuals toward appropriate resources. It is not a diagnostic examination, but rather an awareness-raising step to assess listening comfort.
In accordance with the recommendations of the Ordre des audioprothésistes du Québec, we offer this hearing screening service exclusively to individuals aged 18 and over. For children’s specific needs, consultation with an audiologist is required.
Who Should Have a Hearing Screening?
- Individuals working in noisy professional environments
- Adults aged 50 and over
- Individuals with a family history of hearing loss (e.g., hereditary hearing loss)
- Anyone wishing to assess their hearing
Poor hearing can have significant consequences on quality of life, work performance, and relationships with others. Checking and testing your hearing allows for timely identification of potential hearing difficulties so that appropriate follow-up can be considered as early as possible.
Why Have a Hearing Screening Test?
You may consider having a hearing screening if:
- You often ask people to repeat themselves
- You feel that others do not speak loudly enough
- You increase the volume of the television or radio
- You experience difficulty understanding conversations on the phone
If you suspect hearing difficulties, a simple hearing screening can help you better understand your situation and take appropriate next steps.
If you are 60 years of age or older, it is recommended to have a hearing screening every two years.
Steps of a Clinic Visit for a Hearing Screening Test
The audioprosthetist will ask you questions about your medical history, hearing-related conditions, and history of noise exposure. You will also be asked about past surgeries, the presence of tinnitus and/or dizziness.
Your listening and communication difficulties will also be taken into consideration.
A non-diagnostic otoscopic examination will then be performed to ensure that nothing is obstructing the ear canal and could interfere with hearing or the hearing screening test (such as earwax buildup, a foreign body, etc.).
If necessary, the audioprosthetist may refer you to an ENT specialist or another healthcare professional.
The audioprosthetist will assess your hearing thresholds at four frequencies (500, 1000, 2000, and 4000 Hz) by presenting sounds through headphones, in a sound-treated booth.
These frequencies represent the minimum required to differentiate normal hearing from possible hearing loss.
- If the screening results indicate hearing within normal limits (i.e., results of 25 dB or less across all tested frequencies in both ears), the audioprosthetist may recommend repeating the hearing screening in: up to 5 years if you are under 65 years of age, or 1 to 3 years if you are 65 years of age or older.
If you notice a decrease in your hearing acuity before your next scheduled appointment, you may simply contact the audioprosthetist to repeat the hearing screening.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have questions about our hearing screening service? We have compiled answers to the most frequently asked questions to help you better understand how it works and the benefits of this quick and commitment-free test.
Is hearing screening completely free of charge ?
Yes, absolutely. Our hearing screening service is entirely free and offered on an ongoing basis at all our clinics. No fees will be charged.
What is the difference between hearing screening and a comprehensive hearing assessment?
Hearing screening is a preliminary verification of hearing that helps determine whether hearing appears to be within normal limits or if a decrease in hearing is suspected. It does not establish a diagnosis, but serves as a first step to guide individuals toward appropriate resources.
A comprehensive hearing evaluation is a diagnostic assessment performed by an audiologist, in a sound-treated environment. It allows for the identification of the nature and degree of hearing loss. Based on the results, the audiologist can propose appropriate rehabilitation solutions tailored to individual needs.
Who performs the hearing screening ?
Hearing screening is performed by an audioprosthetist who is a member of the Ordre des audioprothésistes du Québec (OAQ).
Do I need an appointment, or can I walk in?
While walk-ins are welcome, we recommend scheduling an appointment in advance to ensure availability and minimize waiting time. You may contactus by phone or book an appointment online.
How long does a hearing screening take ?
A hearing screening generally takes between 15 and 20 minutes. It is quick, painless, and commitment-free.
Do I need to prepare in any specific way before the hearing screening ?
No special preparation is required. Simply arrive for your appointment. If you already wear hearing aids, please remember to bring them with you.
How often should I have a hearing screening ?
Hearing screening is recommended every 1 to 2 years, especially if you are over 60 years of age, are exposed to occupational noise, or have hearing concerns. If in doubt, do not hesitate to consult more frequently.
What happens if the hearing screening reveals possible hearing loss?
If the hearing screening suggests possible hearing loss, the audioprosthetist will explain the results and recommend appropriate next steps. This may include a referral for a comprehensive audiological evaluation with an audiologist, consultation with a physician or ENT specialist, or additional follow- up, as appropriate. You always remain free to make your own decisions.
