How to Know If You Need a Hearing Aid: 7 Signs to Watch For

wehelphearing
Feb 2
3 min read

Updated: Apr 26

Knowing whether or not you need a hearing aid can be a real challenge. Hearing loss is so gradual that often your loved ones will notice it long before you do. In fact, most people will not admit they have a treatable loss until it is causing major frustrations in their relationships. An unfortunate statistic often passed around in the hearing care community is that people wait an average of 7 years from the first time they are made aware they have loss to the time they treat it.

I cannot tell you how many conversations I have had with people who say, “It’s not that bad,” or, “I hear just fine, it’s my kids who think I need it.” But the truth is, while you may not perceive your loss to be ‘that bad,’ it can actually have serious effects, not only on your relationships, but on your overall cognitive health. I’m not trying to scare you. It’s just the truth. The good news is that with early screening and treatment, you can decrease the risk of getting to that point. Here are some signs to look out for that might mean it is time to take action.

1. Listen to Your Loved Ones

My number one, best tried and true advice is: listen to your loved ones. I know it can be hard to accept that you are losing your hearing, but the people you love and trust have no reason to lie to you. They are recognizing that you are not picking up on things you used to. They will notice before you, and if they bring it to your attention, the least you can do is get screened.

2. Difficulty Following Conversations

If you often ask people to repeat themselves or feel lost during group conversations, especially in noisy places, it could signal hearing changes. Take note of how often this is happening, or if you find yourself watching people's lips as they talk to help with your understanding.

3. Turning the Volume Up Too High

When the TV, radio, or phone volume becomes a frequent argument with loved ones, it’s worth checking your hearing. Clear sound doesn’t have to mean louder sound.

4. Missing High-Pitched Sounds

If you are having a harder time hearing children's voices or catching high-pitched alarms, it could be an early sign of high-frequency hearing loss.

If you are not sure whether what you are noticing is hearing loss, you don't have to wait and wonder. You can take a free online hearing test and get a quick snapshot of your hearing health, right from home. You will need some headphones for the test.

👉 Start Your Free Test Now

5. Persistent Ringing in Your Ears

That constant ringing or buzzing in your ears, known as tinnitus, often accompanies hearing loss. Understanding its source could provide both clarity and relief.

6. Struggling with Phone Calls

Phone conversations rely heavily on sound alone, and they can become challenging without visual cues. This difficulty might be an early warning sign worth exploring.

7. Feeling Mentally Drained

If conversations leave you feeling tired or overwhelmed, it could be a sign you’re working too hard to hear. Identifying this early can improve both your energy and focus.

Take the First Step—Protect Your Hearing and Your Brain

If you are noticing any of the signs we talked about, the smartest thing you can do is take a free online hearing test. It only takes a few minutes, and it can give you real answers about where you stand.

The earlier you catch hearing loss, the easier it is to treat. Keeping your hearing strong helps protect your brain, your relationships, and your overall quality of life.

Most hearing aid providers even offer a 45-day free trial, so there is no risk in finding out where you stand.