Do I Need a Hearing Test? 10 Subtle Signs Adults in Burlington Often Miss
Many adults live with gradual hearing changes for years without realizing it. Hearing loss often happens slowly, making it easy to adapt — turning up the TV, avoiding noisy restaurants, or assuming others are just mumbling.
If you’ve ever wondered, “Do I really need a hearing test?”, you’re not alone. As an audiologist who also lives with hearing loss, I see this every day.
Below are 10 subtle signs that it may be time to book an adult hearing test in Burlington.
Why Adults Delay Hearing Tests
Adults often put off hearing tests because:
Hearing loss doesn’t feel urgent
Conversations are “mostly fine.”
There’s concern about needing hearing aids
Busy schedules push it to the bottom of the list
The truth is, early testing gives you clarity and options, not pressure.
10 Subtle Signs You May Need a Hearing Test
1. You Struggle to Hear in Background Noise
Restaurants, social gatherings, and meetings feel exhausting because separating voices is difficult.
2. You Turn the TV or Phone Volume Up Higher Than Others
Family members may comment that the volume is too loud — a common early sign of hearing loss.
3. You Ask People to Repeat Themselves Often
Especially when someone speaks softly or from another room.
4. You Feel Mentally Drained After Conversations
Listening fatigue happens when your brain works overtime to fill in missing sounds.
5. You Avoid Social Situations
You may decline invitations because following conversations feels stressful.
6. You Hear but Don’t Always Understand
Speech sounds clear, but words blur together — especially with accents or fast talkers.
7. Ringing or Buzzing in the Ears (Tinnitus)
Persistent tinnitus often occurs alongside hearing loss.
8. You Mishear Words
You may confuse similar-sounding words, leading to misunderstandings.
9. Loved Ones Notice Changes Before You Do
Family members often notice hearing changes long before adults do themselves.
10. You Haven’t Had a Hearing Test in Years
Even without obvious symptoms, adults should have baseline hearing tests, especially over age 50.
What Happens During an Adult Hearing Test?
An adult hearing test is comfortable, non-invasive, and typically takes about an hour. At Empathy Hearing Clinic in Burlington, your appointment includes:
A detailed discussion of your hearing concerns and lifestyle
Ear health examination
Hearing testing in a sound-treated environment
Clear explanation of results in plain language
There is no pressure to purchase hearing aids — testing is about understanding your hearing health.
When Are Hearing Aids Recommended?
Not everyone who has hearing changes needs hearing aids right away. If hearing aids are recommended, it’s because they will meaningfully improve:
Communication
Listening effort
Social confidence
Quality of life
Today’s hearing aids are small, comfortable, and highly customizable, designed to support your unique listening needs — whether at work, at home, or in noisy environments.
Why Early Hearing Care Matters
Untreated hearing loss can affect:
Brain health and memory
Energy levels
Relationships
Work performance
Emotional well-being
Early testing allows you to make informed decisions and stay connected to the people and activities you love.
Book an Adult Hearing Test in Burlington
If you recognize yourself in any of the signs above, booking a hearing test is a simple next step.
Empathy Hearing Clinic provides:
Adult hearing tests
Hearing aid consultations and fittings
Compassionate, unrushed care
A clinician who truly understands
We proudly serve Burlington, Ontario, as well as Oakville, Waterdown, and Hamilton.
📞 Call or book online today to schedule your adult hearing test in Burlington.
