Specsavers free hearing tests make it easy to keep track of your hearing health. We’ll test your hearing for free to find out how well you can hear and suggest the best solution for you – and you can trust us to recommend only what you need.
We’ll also keep in touch with you every 18 months to two years for a hearing check to make sure everything’s all right. We’re right here when you need us, so if you’re worried about your hearing, just pop into a store.
Who qualifies for a free hearing test?
Hearing tests at Specsavers are free of charge for everyone. If you feel your hearing has changed or you need a check-up, book an appointment with one of our hearing experts at your local store. We can then discuss your options if you have hearing concerns, and, of course, there’s no obligation for you to buy a hearing aid.
How to book your free hearing test
Should I have a hearing test?
It’s worth having your hearing checked if you notice a change in your hearing, no matter your age. More often than not, changes to your hearing happen gradually, so it’s not always easy to notice if you’re not hearing as well as you used to. However, there are a few signs you can look out for that indicate you might need a hearing test.
Signs you might need a hearing check:
- You find it difficult to listen to conversations or the TV when there’s background noise
- Speaking and hearing people on the phone is difficult, even in a quiet room
- You have to ask others to repeat themselves often, or it sounds like they’re mumbling
- You might find it hard to keep up with conversation when in group situations
- You might feel stressed or tired from having to concentrate while listening
- Family members will mention that the TV is too loud, or that you’re shouting
- Loved ones might hint that you’re finding it difficult to hear too
If you’ve experienced sudden hearing loss, or hearing loss which impacts one ear more significantly, we recommend seeking medical advice immediately.
What happens in a hearing test?
A free hearing test at Specsavers allows you to find out how well you’re hearing, as well as assessing the health of your ears. During a hearing test your audiologist will:
- Check the overall health of your ears
- Perform a hearing check
- Advise on aftercare and next steps depending on the outcome of the check
Checking the overall health of your ears
After asking a few introductory questions about your history and current symptoms, the audiologist will use a small camera to examine the health of your ear canals and ear drums. This will ensure that sound has a clear pathway through the middle ear and inner ear. They may even be able to show you what they are seeing
Performing the hearing test
The audiologist will test your ears by playing sounds at different pitches through a pair of headphones and asking you to press a button every time you hear a sound. They will then ask you to wear a special headband that will test how well you hear sounds through vibrations. During both tests they will be measuring the quietest sounds you can hear.
Advice from the audiologist
They will then discuss the results of the test with you, and explain any next steps based on their findings. Everything that takes place during the appointment will be recorded to help us track any changes that take place over time.
At Specsavers, hearing tests are completely free with no obligation to purchase a hearing aid.
What if I need hearing aids?
If your test results indicate you’d benefit from a hearing aid, the audiologist will talk you through all the options that might be suitable for you. They may also take a mould of your ear canal so that your new aid fits properly. This can take up to five minutes and is completely painless.
In some cases, your hearing aids can be fitted on the same day as your test. They’ll be programmed to your needs and we’ll make sure you know how to use them before you leave the store. We’ll also organise a follow-up appointment after four weeks to check that everything is well and adjust the hearing aids if necessary. This may be via our RemoteCare service or with the fine-tuning app. Your audiologist will explain all the details during your initial appointment.
Free hearing services with PRSI
The PRSI Treatment Benefit Scheme and Medical Cards allow thousands of eligible people access to free or discounted ear care services, and up to €1000 towards your hearing aids.
Why you shouldn't be embarrassed to book a hearing test
Whether you think your hearing has changed or not, there is a chance you can still benefit in some way from a hearing test.
We understand that booking a hearing test can be difficult for some people who feel that it’s a sign they’re ageing, or they may be embarrassed by the prospect of wearing a hearing aid. We’re here to support your health and well-being in the best way possible by getting to know your day-to-day challenges and how we can help to get the best possible outcome out of the test results. But it's worth remembering that the earlier you intervene, the better your chances are of managing and improving your hearing successfully.
At Specsavers, some of the hearing aids we fit can connect and be controlled by your phone, or even link to your appliances at home. The variation in devices we now offer can support people in many different situations – and can be tailored depending on your lifestyle. There is nothing scary about a hearing test, and the improvement to your quality of life can be significant if you access the service.
Advice for younger people regarding their ear health
A concern for audiologists is the dependency we have on headphones and earbuds; and the volume and length of time that we use them. We not only listen to music with them, but we also use them for phone calls, podcasts, gaming and more. The high volume and sound pressure in the ear – especially if it’s above an 80 dB level – shortens the safe time you can wear them before you cause long-term hearing damage.
Book your free hearing test
Understanding hearing loss
Try our online hearing test
Download a hearing care information pack
Terms and conditions
A hearing test or hearing check by one of our qualified hearing professionals is free. No obligation to buy a hearing aid. A hearing assessment may be chargeable. Ask in store for details.