If you find yourself struggling to hear what other people are saying from time to time, there’s a new way to screen for hearing problems from the convenience of your phone.
It’s a phone hearing test developed with funding from the National Institutes of Health.
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Take this 10-minute phone hearing test
According to health officials, about 36 million Americans have significant hearing loss, but most have never had their hearing tested.
The phone test normally costs $5, but Duracell is offering up to 50,000 free tests until June 26 and AARP is offering 35,000 free tests to its members.
We took the test to give you a better idea about what happens when you call:
What to expect
- Using an automated system, you will enter your sex and age.
- You will be given a series of three digit sequences presented in a noisy background. Enter the three digits with your telephone keypad.
- Your ears will be tested separately. It takes about 4 minutes per ear.
By the way, do yourself a favor and take the test using a landline for the best experience.
Understanding your results
You will receive your results immediately after finishing the test, so you might want to have a pen and paper handy to jot them down.
Your results will fall into one of the following categories:
- Within the expected range for people with normal hearing
- Slightly below the normal range
- Substantially below the normal range
The next step to take
If your results are slightly or substantially below the normal range, it’s recommended that you get a complete hearing evaluation. Click here to find a certified hearing professional where you live.
Ready to take the test?
To take advantage of the free offer and save the $5 testing fee, it’s best that you take the phone test sooner rather than later. The number to call is 1-844-938-7223. You can learn more at nationalhearingtest.org.
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