World Hearing Day

Today is World Hearing Day, a time to talk about hearing care.

Exposure to loud noise and age are the two most common causes of conditions that cause hearing loss; 1 in 3 people aged 65 and over are reported to suffer from some form of hearing loss.

Hearing loss and other conditions of the ear such as tinnitus can be challenging to live with. Left untreated they may affect your quality of life, your relationships and the ability to rest and sleep. However, there are treatments available to manage your hearing loss and help you get the most out of life.

DVA understands hearing loss can have a significant impact on a person’s life and provides eligible veterans access to services through the Australian Government’s Hearing Services Program (HSP), to help you manage your hearing loss, so you can focus on the things you enjoy.  Importantly, eligible clients may receive a HSP hearing device from the HSP fully subsidised range at no cost to themselves.  To check your eligibility, you can go to the HSP web site at www.hearingservices.gov.au and use the ‘Check your Eligibility’ button.  You can also contact the HSP on 1800 500 726. 

After you have checked that you are eligible, let your hearing provider know that you have a Veteran Card and ask to see devices from the HSP fully subsidised range.  There should be no out of pocket costs for you.  If there is a cost for a hearing device, this is not under the usual HSP arrangements for veterans and you will need to ask your hearing provider to seek prior approval from the HSP or through DVA before any purchases are made. 

If you think you might be experiencing hearing loss or are suffering from tinnitus, more information is available on the DVA website, including The Guide to Better Hearing with a hearing questionnaire. Visit Hearing services | Department of Veterans' Affairs (dva.gov.au) to find out more.