Hearing loss is one of the most common health conditions in Canada, affecting approximately 1 in 4 adults over the age of 50. Despite how widespread it is, many people wait an average of 7 to 10 years before seeking help. Understanding the signs early can make a significant difference in your quality of life and long-term hearing health.
Common Signs of Hearing Loss
Hearing loss often develops gradually, which makes it easy to miss in the early stages. You may not notice changes in your own hearing, but friends and family members often pick up on the signs first.
Watch for these common indicators:
- Frequently asking people to repeat themselves
- Turning up the TV or radio louder than others prefer
- Difficulty following conversations in noisy environments like restaurants
- Feeling like people are mumbling or speaking too softly
- Withdrawing from social situations because listening feels exhausting
- Difficulty hearing on the phone
- Missing doorbells, alarms, or other everyday sounds
Did you know? Untreated hearing loss has been linked to increased risk of cognitive decline, social isolation, and depression. Early intervention through hearing aids and audiological care can help reduce these risks significantly.
What Causes Hearing Loss?
There are many potential causes of hearing loss, and understanding the cause is an important step in determining the right course of action. The most common type in adults is sensorineural hearing loss, which occurs when the tiny hair cells in the inner ear become damaged over time.
Common causes include:
- Age-related changes (presbycusis), the most common cause in adults over 50
- Prolonged exposure to loud noise, whether occupational or recreational
- Genetics and family history of hearing loss
- Certain medications that can damage hearing (ototoxic drugs)
- Ear infections or fluid buildup, especially in children
- Head injuries or trauma to the ear
- Medical conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, or Meniere's disease
Types of Hearing Loss
Audiologists classify hearing loss into three main types. Sensorineural hearing loss involves damage to the inner ear or auditory nerve and is typically permanent but highly treatable with hearing aids. Conductive hearing loss occurs when sound cannot travel efficiently through the outer or middle ear, often due to fluid, wax buildup, or structural issues. Mixed hearing loss is a combination of both sensorineural and conductive components.
When to Get a Hearing Test
If you have noticed any of the signs listed above, booking a hearing test is a smart first step. Even if you are not sure whether your hearing has changed, baseline hearing tests are recommended for adults over 50, as they give your audiologist a reference point for monitoring changes over time.
You should consider a hearing test if:
- You are over 50 and have never had a hearing test
- You have noticed changes in your hearing ability
- You work or have worked in a noisy environment
- A family member has expressed concern about your hearing
- You have a family history of hearing loss
- You experience ringing or buzzing in your ears (tinnitus)
OHIP covers hearing tests for children under 18 and adults over 65 in Ontario. Adults aged 18 to 64 can receive OHIP coverage with a physician referral. Private-pay hearing tests are also available at all Sense of Hearing locations.
What Happens During a Hearing Test?
A comprehensive hearing test at Sense of Hearing typically takes about 60 minutes. Your audiologist will start by reviewing your hearing history and examining your ears. You will then complete a series of painless tests in a soundproof booth, where you will listen to tones at different pitches and volumes. Your audiologist will also test your ability to understand speech in quiet and noisy conditions. After the test, your results are explained in plain language, and your audiologist will discuss any recommended next steps.
Concerned about your hearing? Book a comprehensive hearing test at your nearest Sense of Hearing clinic. With 14 locations across Ontario, expert care is always close by.
Book an AppointmentTaking the Next Step
The most important thing you can do for your hearing health is to take action. Whether that means booking your first hearing test, updating a test from several years ago, or exploring hearing aid options, the team at Sense of Hearing is here to guide you through every step. Our clinics are independently owned, so our advice is always based on your needs. With 14 locations across Ontario, there is a Sense of Hearing clinic near you.
Written By
Sense of Hearing Team
Audiologists & Hearing Instrument Specialists
Sense of Hearing is an independently-owned network of hearing care clinics serving Ontario. Our articles are written and reviewed by our team of Audiologists and Hearing Instrument Specialists.