Quick answer: You may need a hearing test if you often ask people to repeat themselves, struggle in noisy places, turn the TV up, or family say you don't hear well. This free 10-question check, for yourself or a parent, shows how likely a hearing difficulty is and what to do next.
How this hearing check works
Answer 10 questions about everyday listening with Never, Sometimes or Often. Each answer scores 0, 1 or 2 points, for a total out of 20. A final question checks for sudden changes or ear symptoms that need prompt medical care. The check takes about two minutes.
You can answer for yourself or for a parent or family member: the questions change to match. Your result shows a low, possible or likely hearing difficulty, with clear next steps and a WhatsApp button to book a hearing test.
Common signs of hearing loss in adults
- Asking people to repeat themselves, or answering the wrong question
- Turning up the TV or phone volume
- Finding conversations hard in noisy places
- Thinking people mumble, especially women and children
- Missing the doorbell, phone or pressure cooker whistle
- Ringing or buzzing in the ears
- Feeling tired or withdrawn after social events
Checking for a parent or family member
Hearing loss usually develops slowly, so the person affected often adjusts without noticing, while family members see the signs first. Adult children often book a hearing test for an elderly parent. If that is you, answer from what you see day to day, and share the result as a reason for a simple check rather than as a judgement.
What happens at a hearing test at Sound Bridge?
The audiologist asks about your hearing concerns and history, looks in your ears, and then carries out tests such as pure tone audiometry and impedance audiometry. Results are shown on an audiogram and explained in plain language, along with the next step.
Why it is worth checking early
Untreated hearing loss can make conversations tiring and lead people to avoid social situations. Research has also linked untreated hearing loss in later life with a higher risk of dementia. Finding a hearing loss early gives you more options and keeps everyday communication easier.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can an online hearing check replace a hearing test?
No. This check shows whether everyday listening suggests a problem, but only a hearing test with an audiologist measures how well you hear, at which pitches, and why.
How often should adults have a hearing test?
Without any concerns, a hearing test every few years from about age 50 is sensible, and sooner if you notice changes or work around loud noise. Have a test straight away if hearing changes suddenly.
My parent says they hear fine. How can I help?
Hearing loss often comes on slowly, so family members notice it first. Choose “My parent or another family member” in this check, share the result with them, and suggest a hearing test as a simple, painless check rather than a verdict.
Is ringing in the ears serious?
Ringing or buzzing (tinnitus) is common and often linked to hearing loss or noise exposure, so a hearing test is worthwhile. Seek prompt medical care if it is in one ear only, pulses with your heartbeat, or comes with sudden hearing loss or dizziness.
What should I do about sudden hearing loss?
See a doctor (ENT specialist) as soon as possible, ideally the same or next day. Do not wait for it to improve on its own.
More free checks
See all free speech and hearing checks.
- Does my child need speech therapy?Speech and language check, ages 1 to 6+
- Which hearing aid style suits me?BTE, RIC, ITE or CIC finder
- Can my baby hear?Newborn and infant checklist, 0 to 12 months
This tool is general education and screening only and does not replace a personal clinical assessment.