How Often Should Hearing Be Tested?

You get your physical health checked on at least once a year and probably see the dentist every six months for a routine check-up. If you wear glasses you know to get your vision tested every year or two, but how often should your hearing be tested?

Screening vs testing

There is a difference between hearing screening tests and complete audiological exams. Screening tests are generally pass-fail tests that detect your ability to hear certain noises in certain situations. They indicate whether further, detailed testing is necessary. Most of the hearing tests we refer to in this article are screening tests necessary to determine if in-depth testing is necessary.

Checking your child’s hearing

Infants in the U.S. receive hearing tests when they are born. These are performed in the hospital before the baby comes home.

Young children should have an additional hearing screening at the age of two or three and then again before they start school. If your child has delayed speech development, hearing should be tested. 

Many schools perform hearing screenings each year for children in elementary school. If your child’s school does not perform screenings, then you can talk to the pediatrician. Many pediatricians have the necessary equipment to perform a hearing screening as part of an annual pre-school check-up. If hearing problems are suspected, you will be referred to a hearing provider for detailed hearing testing.

Young and middle-age adults

From the age of 18 to 50, you should have your hearing screened as part of your well-care checkup every 3-5 years. Your general care physician can perform this screening and if hearing loss is suspected, you will be referred to a hearing specialist for further testing.

If you suspect you are having a problem with hearing, schedule a screening with your physician. Some signs of hearing loss include: difficulty understanding conversation in noisy environments (like a busy restaurant), asking people to repeat themselves or listening to the radio or TV at increased volume. Most people experience hearing loss for years before the actual diagnosis.

If work or play involves loud noise

If your work environment is loud or noisy, you should have your hearing screened at least once a year. Even if you wear protective equipment, you are at an elevated risk for damage to hair cells in the inner ear resulting in hearing loss.

If you have hobbies or leisure activities that involve loud sound (such as ATV riding, metal working, playing amplified musical instruments etc) you should have your hearing screened once a year. It is important to wear protective devices to prevent damage to your hearing.

If you wear hearing aids

If you wear hearing aids, you should have your hearing tested at least every two years. This testing should be performed by a hearing care provider and should be thorough. Because hearing changes over time, your hearing aids may need to be reprogrammed or updated as your hearing changes.