Categories: Health

Do you have a hearing problem? This simple phone test will tell you…

Michael Timmermann | March 22nd, 2017

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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.

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.

This post was last modified on March 22, 2017 4:03 pm