To help combat the issue of hearing loss, the Big Aussie Hearing Check was in Dubbo last week to provide locals with free hearing checks.
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Community Hearing Advisor Sharon Simpson was at South Dubbo Grove Pharmacy on March, 14, conducting the 15 minute test.
Ms Simpson said hearing effects more than just our ears and impacts on a persons balance, cardiovascular and more.
"It should be a part of every day health," Ms Simpson said of hearing. "Everyone gets their eyes checked and hearing should be a part of that."
Another factor that hearing loss affects, especially older people, is isolation, Ms Simpson said. "People cannot communicate with their family or go to things," she said.
Ms Simpson travels across central west, NSW conducting the free tests.
According to the Big Aussie Hearing Check an estimated 3.6 million Australians (14.5 per cent of the population) are affected by hearing loss and the prevalence is projected to more than double to 7.8 million by 2060, meaning nearly one in every five Australians will be affected.
“The idea of our partners and loved ones having ‘selective hearing’ might not come as a surprise to some,” Australian Hearing area manager Debbie Amos said.
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"But there is a serious side to this. What might be a surprise, is that it could be as a result of undiagnosed hearing problems. And a simple hearing test can reveal that."
"Healthy hearing is a big part of life. It keeps us connected to the people and things we love. Good hearing plays a significant role in helping people stay active, happy and involved in the world around them."
Anyone wishing to get their hearing tested are encouraged to visit the Australian Hearing Dubbo centre in Cobra Street.
