Roughly 20% of Americans, or 48 million people, are living with some degree of hearing loss, and diabetes appears to be linked to the development of certain kinds of hearing impairment. In fact, hearing loss is twice as common in people with diabetes as in those without diabetes. If you’re concerned that you may not be hearing as well as you used to, you’ll want to sign up for free, over-the-phone hearing tests being offered this May.
In observance of Better Hearing & Speech Month, hearing-aid provider MDHearingAid and the National Hearing Test have teamed up to offer this scientifically validated telephone screen. The roughly 10-minute test can help determine if you need a complete hearing evaluation.
To take the test, participants listen to three-digit sequences and then use their telephone keypad to enter what they hear. (A landline is recommended.) Results for each ear are provided immediately after the test. Those whose results indicate “slightly below normal” or “substantially below normal” hearing are given information on how to obtain a complete assessment from a hearing professional in their area.
People who sign up will receive an e-mail with an access code and additional details on how to take the test.
The free hearing tests will be available for a limited time. For more information, and to register, visit the MDHearingAid website.
This blog entry was written by Senior Digital Editor Diane Fennell.
