When should I see an audiologist?
It’s important to regularly see an audiologist to check for signs of hearing loss and any associated symptoms, just as you would regularly see a dentist to help with your dental management plan or an optometrist to check your eyesight.
Learn about how often you should check your hearing, the cost of hearing aids and what treatment options are available.
On this page
How often should I check my hearing?
It’s important that you regularly see an audiologist to check for hearing loss:
| Patient | Frequency of hearing check |
|---|---|
| Infants and young children | Typically screened at birth and during early childhood |
| Adults over 50 | Every 2-3 years |
| Workers in loud environments (construction workers and musicians) | Every 1 year |
Make sure to get your hearing checked whenever you have a concern.
What are the signs of hearing loss?
The signs of hearing loss may not always be obvious to you or your loved ones, so recognising behavioural signs is essential.
Communication Difficulties
- Frequently asking people to repeat themselves
- Misunderstanding words, especially in noisy environments
- Responding inappropriately to questions or comments
- Complaining others are mumbling or not speaking clearly
- Increasing the volume of television or devices to uncomfortably high levels for others
Social Withdrawal or Avoidance
- Avoiding social gatherings or group conversations
- Withdrawing from previously enjoyed activities
- Disengaged or isolated in social or work environments
Cognitive and Emotional Changes
- Increased frustration or irritability during conversations
- Anxiety/fatigue in noisy or complex listening environments
- Signs of decreased memory or attention, sometimes mistaken for cognitive decline
- Depression or low mood due to communication difficulties
Behavioural Observations in Specific Groups
- Older adults: May appear confused, aloof, or less interactive—sometimes mistaken for dementia
- Children: May show delayed speech and language development, inattentiveness, or academic struggles
- People with dementia or disability: Hearing loss may exacerbate behavioural symptoms or increase agitation
Compensatory Strategies
- Lip-reading or focusing intently on the speaker’s face
- Turning one ear toward the speaker (especially in unilateral hearing loss)
- Relying on visual cues, gestures, or written communication
- Avoiding phone conversations due to difficulty understanding speech
What treatment options are there?
There are a range of treatment options, including medical treatment, communication training and strategies, hearing aids, assistive listening devices (ALDs), and cochlear implants.
If you would like to find out more, the Department of Health’s Hearing Difficulties Tool has a decision aid and a lot of information about these options.
How much do hearing aids cost?
Basic hearing aids range from $1,500–$3,000, mid-tier options from $3,000–$6,000, and premium models can cost over $6,000.
When are other devices suitable?
Cochlear implants are available for severe or greater hearing loss.
Devices like AirPods and other over-the-counter hearing devices can assist some users but lack the custom tuning and amplification of hearing aids. AirPods are only suitable for people with mild-moderate hearing loss.
How can I find an audiologist?
You can find a trustworthy audiologist by looking for an Audiology Australia Accredited Audiologist.
Use our Find an Audiologist search tool today.
What financial support is available?
You may be able to receive support through the Hearing Services Program, Medicare or another resource.
Information for GPs
Read everything you need to know as a medical professional >
Find an AudA Accredited Audiologist near you today
Finding an audiologist should be your first step when you notice you have hearing loss.
Use the Find an Audiologist search tool today.