A hearing assessment, or audiometry test, measures how well you hear a range of tones and volumes in each ear. It’s the same kind of test used to diagnose hearing loss, and it gives a clear, measurable picture of your hearing rather than just a general impression.

Your audiologist will first check your ears with an otoscope to rule out wax or other blockages, since these can affect results. You’ll then be asked to respond to a series of tones, and your results are plotted so your audiologist can talk you through what they mean and whether any further support, such as hearing aids, would help.

Who should book one?
Consider a hearing assessment if you’re regularly asking people to repeat themselves, turning the TV up, struggling in noisy environments, or you have a family history of hearing loss. It’s also worth doing periodically if you’re over 60 or have worked around loud machinery.