Does hearing loss affect your ability to drive?
Listening in the car can be challenging.
Road, engine and wind noise, air conditioner fans and music all add noise that make it harder to hear and untreated hearing loss may exacerbate hearing difficulties.
Awareness and safety
Hearing is crucial for safe navigation and avoidance of potential hazards.Horns warn of situations requiring attention, sirens alert us of approaching emergency vehicles, and engine sounds advise potential mechanical issues.
Good hearing allows us to follow guidance from navigation systems and hear sensors from safety systems while audible indicator signals ensure we accurately communicate intentions to other drivers.
If you have trouble hearing in the car, check mirrors regularly to enhance awareness of surroundings, and utilise visual and/or vibration alerts from the car's safety and navigation systems to compliment auditory signals.
Communication
Engaging in enjoyable conversations can contribute to a positive driving experience.Tips for communicating in the car:
- Inform others if it’s challenging for you to hear.
- Establish communication strategies. Speak clearly at a moderate pace.
- Minimise noise. Turn down music or close windows/sunroofs.
- Use hands-free technology or Bluetooth streaming in hearing devices when using the phone.
- Remote microphones may assist hearing device users to hear passengers more easily.
Enjoyment
Beyond safety and communication, hearing well can also contribute to a more pleasant driving experience.Many people appreciate listening to music, radio, podcasts or talking books while travelling.
Ensuring you can hear clearly and at a comfortable volume for other travellers offers enjoyment.
Optimise your hearing
Maintain hearing health by keeping the volume of your audio system at a moderate level to avoid prolonged exposure to loud sounds.
On motorbikes, custom hearing protection can protect your ears by minimising wind and engine noise while maintaining awareness.
Having regular hearing checks, protecting your hearing and addressing hearing loss promptly will optimise awareness, communication & entertainment when on the road.
Book a free* hearing check with Audika Hearing Clinic today and speak with one of their hearing experts, call 1800 081 873 or click their website to book now. And if you are a Seniors Card member you can receive 10% off selected hearing aid(s) at Audika^. Reference this article to save!
* FREE hearing checks available to adults aged 26 or over.
^This offer is available to Senior Card members. 10% discount is off Audika hearing aid(s) in the Optimal, Premium and Enhanced ranges, excluding Oticon Xceed 3 SP devices and devices in the Entry range. Discount is off Audika’s standard list price and is to be applied prior to any eligible health fund benefits and government subsidies being paid. Discount not available for WorkCover claims. Discount not available in conjunction with any other discount or bonus offer. Excludes any spend on accessories (such as re-charging units and remote controls), assisted listening devices, batteries and/or maintenance, consumables, spare parts, Ultimate Care package and any other service charge. Offer available on hearing aids ordered between 1 January 2024 and 31 December 2024. Senior Card members must show their card at the time of ordering to be eligible for the discount.
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