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Hearing care specialist fitting a hearing aid on an older woman while another woman observes in a modern clinic setting.
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What to expect at a hearing test

Contributed by HearingLife

2021-04-13 • 2 min read

Tags • Hearing loss

What to Expect at a Hearing Test: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re thinking about booking a hearing test—or already have one coming up—you might be wondering what it’s actually like. The good news? It’s simple, painless, and all about helping you hear your best.

We believe that understanding what to expect can make your experience easier and even a little empowering. Here’s a closer look at what happens during a hearing test appointment.

Step 1: A Friendly Conversation

Your visit begins with a conversation. Your hearing care professional will ask about your hearing concerns, medical history, and day-to-day lifestyle. Why? Because hearing isn’t one-size-fits-all.

Whether you’re finding it harder to follow conversations, turning up the TV more often, or just curious about your hearing health, this part helps us understand what’s going on—and how we can help.

Step 2: A Quick Look Inside Your Ears

Woman exam a mans ear to check for any earwax blockages or other irregularities

Next, we’ll take a look inside your ears using a small lighted instrument called an otoscope. This helps us check for anything physical that could be affecting your hearing, like earwax buildup or signs of infection.

Sometimes, hearing issues can be as simple as a blockage—so this step is important.

Step 3: A Few Simple Listening Tests

Man having a test - such as tone, speech, and word recognition tests

Now it’s time for the hearing test itself. You’ll sit in a quiet room and wear headphones while we play a series of tones and words. You’ll press a button or raise your hand every time you hear something.

Here’s what we’ll be checking:

  • How softly you can hear certain sounds (Pure Tone Testing)
  • How well you understand words—both in quiet and with background noise (Speech Testing)

These tests give us a full picture of how your ears are working and where support may be needed.

Step 4: Your Results—Right Away

Once the test is done, we’ll go over your results with you right away. You’ll get a clear explanation of what everything means, and we’ll talk through your options if any hearing loss is detected.

If hearing aids are recommended, we’ll show you different types and even let you try them on. There’s no pressure—just support and guidance to help you make an informed decision.

A hearing test is a smart step toward taking care of your overall well-being. It’s quick, informative, and tailored to you.

Whether you’re just curious or ready to take action, we’re here to help you every step of the way—with trusted professionals, the latest technology, and personalized care.

Book a free hearing appointment at your nearest HearingLife clinic today!

*A comprehensive hearing assessment is provided to adults ages 19 and older at no cost. The results of this assessment will be communicated verbally to you. If you request a copy of the Audiological Report, an administrative fee will apply, excluding Saskatchewan residents. Child hearing tests are conducted at select locations for a fee, please contact us for more information. Offer not available in Quebec. Not applicable for industrial hearing tests. This promotion is valid for select premium or advanced hearing aid models and cannot be combined with any other discount. Applies to private sales of premium or advanced hearing aids and discount is applied after any Government funding has been deducted. Offer valid only at participating locations for new clients completing their first hearing test. Limit one $25 gift card per individual. Gift card will be sent by email in 7–14 days following appointment completion. We reserve the right to amend or cancel this offer at any time without notice. Some conditions apply, see clinic for details. Offer not valid in Quebec. Offer expires 31/01/2026. **90-Day Risk-Free Trial begins at the date of purchase. Trial period varies by province. If you are not completely satisfied, you can return it within 90 days for a full refund or exchange. ***If you are quoted a lower price on an comparable hearing aid with the same features, options and services, HearingLife Canada Ltd. will match that price. Conditions Apply. Ask our hearing care professionals for more details. 150,000 Doctor referrals based on the all-time number of referrals from general physicians, Ear, Nose & Throat specialists, and medical professionals as indicated by clients on our intake forms. With financing plan, deposit may be required. Borrower must be age of majority and have a Canadian bank account. Financing is available on select core-brand hearing aids and at select HearingLife locations.