Hearing Test for Over 60s

Age-related hearing loss — known as presbycusis — is one of the most common health conditions affecting older adults. By the age of 60, around 1 in 3 people in the UK experience some degree of hearing loss, rising to more than 70% of people over 70.

Why hearing changes after 60

Presbycusis typically results from the gradual deterioration of the hair cells in the inner ear, which cannot regenerate once damaged. It usually affects higher-pitched sounds first, making it difficult to hear consonant sounds such as 's', 'f', 'th', and 'sh' — which is why speech may sound audible but unclear.

Signs to watch for

Common signs of age-related hearing loss include:

• Difficulty following conversations in noisy environments
• Asking people to repeat themselves regularly
• Turning up the television louder than others find comfortable
• Difficulty hearing on the telephone
• Finding that people seem to mumble
• Withdrawing from social situations

Why testing matters

Research links untreated hearing loss in older adults to increased risk of social isolation, depression, cognitive decline, and falls. The Lancet Commission on Dementia identified hearing loss as the largest modifiable risk factor for dementia. Early detection and management with hearing aids can help reduce these risks.

Getting tested

Hearing tests are available free of charge from high-street providers such as Specsavers, Boots, and Hidden Hearing — no GP referral needed. NHS hearing tests are also free via GP referral. For those with mobility difficulties, home visit hearing tests are available from providers including Hidden Hearing and Amplifon.

How often to test

Hearing care professionals recommend hearing tests every 1–2 years after 60, even if you don't notice problems. Regular testing creates a baseline for comparison and catches changes early.