Telephone hearing test launched to reduce stigma
- 30 December 2005
The RNID have launched an automated telephone hearing test service designed to encourage people who think they are losing their hearing to visit their GPs.
The new test is part of the RNID’s new campaign, ‘Breaking The Sound Barrier’, aimed at combating stigma about deafness and encouraging more people to visit their doctor about their hearing problems.
The test lasts five minutes and is narrated by TV presenter Eamonn Holmes, asks participants to input their age and then type out a series of three-digit numbers read out with a background of white noise. As the test progresses, the white noise gets steadily louder. At the end of the test the user is either told their hearing is normal for their age or that they should refer to their GP.
The hearing check was developed by the RNID in conjunction with Professor Mark Lutman from the Institute of Sound and Vibration Research at the University of Southampton, and the screening test itself was developed with the support of grants from the European Union.
According to a poll undertaken by Ipsos MORI commissioned by RNID, the main reason why people would not want to undertake a hearing test is embarrassment, with 46% saying that they felt uncomfortable with the idea.
RNID’s chief executive, Dr John Low, said: "By the time we reach 60, over half of us will have some level of hearing loss, which happens naturally as we get older. But it can have a profound impact on our personal and professional lives, leaving many of us feeling isolated and out of touch with family, friends and colleagues.
"This campaign sets out to address these important issues and reconnect millions of ordinary people back to society."
Sir Cliff Richard, who is backing the Breaking the Sound Barrier campaign, said of the telephone check service: "I’m delighted that RNID has launched its telephone hearing check so that we can all get a clearer picture of our level of hearing. I’d urge everyone to support Breaking the Sound Barrier by taking the hearing check. It could change your life for the better."
To take the test, call 0845 600 5555. Calls will be charged at local rate.
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