UF clinic offers free hearing tests, classes to community

Published: January 30 2008

Category:Happenings

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — The University of Florida Speech and Hearing Clinic is celebrating the American Academy of Audiology’s 20th anniversary this spring by offering hearing free screenings and an education series on Living With Hearing Loss to the public.

Free hearing screenings will be offered from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 1405 N.W. 13th St., Suites B and C, on the following dates: Jan. 31, Feb. 7, Feb. 14, Feb. 28, March 6, March 20, March 27, April 10, April 17 and April 24. No appointment is necessary.

An annual hearing checkup is recommended for those age 45 and up, according to UF audiologists. Common symptoms of hearing loss include: ringing in the ears, frequently asking others to repeat themselves, having a difficult time understanding others without wearing glasses or looking the subject directly in the face, difficulty following a group conversation and complaints from others about the chosen volume level of radios or televisions.

Those who identify with these symptoms should see an audiologist for a hearing test, according to UF audiologist Michelle Colburn. “Even a very slight hearing loss can have an impact on your daily life,” she said. “Hearing loss is treatable, and there is no reason for anyone to miss all of the important sounds of life.”

For those who have already had their hearing screened, a Living With Hearing Loss education series will be held 10 to 11:30 a.m. Thursdays at the clinic. “Coping With Hearing Loss” will be offered Feb. 14 and March 27; “A Thousand Ways to Say Huh?” will be held Feb. 28 and April 10; “Handling Difficult Listening Situations” will be held Jan. 31, March 6 and April 17; and “What Other Help is There?” will be offered Feb. 7, March 20 and April 24. Classes are free, but space is limited. Call 352-273-0542 to reserve a spot.

For more information, contact the UF Speech and Hearing Clinic, 352-273-0542.

Credits

Contact
Michelle Colburn, mcolburn@csd.ufl.edu, 352-392-273-0542

Category:Happenings