Just because your hearing is failing, doesn’t mean your quality life is.
Did you know that approximately 1 in 2 Australians over the age of 60 have hearing loss, according to the Hearing Care Industry Association?
While the health condition presents itself more frequently in those in the golden years of their lives, hearing loss impacts Aussies at all stages of life.
From the primary school-aged child learning how to lip-read and use Australian Sign Language (AUSLAN), to the 80-year-old who after a lifetime of listening is suddenly unable to hear even the most close-quartered conversations, it is a uniquely personal experience to those who suffer from it.
Patrica V.D.B witnessed this first-hand when her mother experienced hearing loss.
“A few years ago, I sensed something was wrong with my mother. She would struggle to communicate in large settings and began to withdraw from social gatherings,” Patricia shares.
This was not the only struggle she had.
Patricia’s mother had migrated from Peru 30 years prior, not having spoken a word of English. While Patricia’s late father spoke six languages, learning English at an older age was challenging for her mother and she came to rely on him.
“He was able to help by translating for her while shopping, at social gatherings or when they watched TV,” Patricia says. “With support from family, friends and the community, they adjusted well and eventually made Australia their second home.”
Patricia really noticed something was wrong when her mother’s conversations with her sisters and best friend, all of whom lived overseas, grew shorter.
“Eventually she relied on me to contact them and relay updates,” she says. “I couldn’t understand why she avoided speaking with them directly.”
As frustrations grew within her family, Patricia’s mother was finally encouraged to book a complimentary hearing check at her local Audika clinic.
With over 300 locations Australia-wide, no referral needed, and same-day results, the organisation has helped countless Australians facing hearing loss find the support they need to tune back into life.
“When she first sought help, she could hear instantly and couldn’t stop smiling. I’ll never forget the look on her face,” Patricia says of her 85-year-old mother.
“I have noticed how much happier my mother is now that she can hear so much better.”
“The experience made me realise how important it is to be able to hear so we can connect with the world.”
If you are over the age of 26, call 13 4327 and book in for a FREE 15-minute hearing check today. You can also book online here.
But if you aren’t there yet, why not try the complimentary Audika Online Hearing Test here.
