Hearing Evaluations

IDHHC has a full-service hearing health clinic in both our Victoria and Nanaimo locations. Our team of registered Audiologists will work with you to perform regular check ups, or address specific concerns or symptoms you may be experiencing. 

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It is recommended to have your hearing checked every two years, or more frequently depending on any family history, prolonged noise exposure, or changes in hearing ability.  

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Your Audiologist will perform a series of diagnostic tests and recommend treatment or referrals if needed. IDHHC not only provides health services but employs a team of experienced support workers who will work with you to create a personalized care plan to help you adapt to challenges. Our goal is to ensure you can remain connected to your life, support your independence, maintain physical health and mental well being. We offer free or low cost educational workshops, assistive technology, Speech Reading classes and employment support. 

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A basic hearing check may involve some or all of the following steps: 

• Otoscopic Examination: Before the actual hearing tests begin, the professional may examine your ears using an otoscope. This allows them to check for any visible signs of earwax buildup, ear infections, or other abnormalities that could affect the testing process. 

• Pure-Tone Audiometry: This is the most common test used to assess hearing sensitivity. You'll be seated in a soundproof booth or room and wear headphones connected to an audiometer. You'll then be asked to listen for tones played at different frequencies (pitches) and indicate when you hear them by pressing a button or raising your hand. This helps determine the softest sounds you can hear at various frequencies, which is plotted on an audiogram. 

• Speech Audiometry: In this test, you'll listen to recorded speech at different volumes and repeat back what you hear. This helps assess your ability to understand speech in quiet and noisy environments. 

• Additional Tests (if necessary): Depending on your specific needs and concerns, your Audiologist may conduct additional tests, such as tympanometry to assess middle ear function, or otoacoustic emissions (OAE) testing to evaluate cochlear hair cell function. 

• Results and Discussion: Once the testing is complete, the professional will review the results with you and discuss what they mean for your hearing health. They may provide recommendations for further evaluation or treatment if necessary, such as hearing aids or assistive listening devices.