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To help remove the stigma associated with hearing loss, a Australian company, Yeahpoint, has designed a simple touch screen hearing test. This testing device will be located inside of Bay Audio, a professional audiology chain.

The easy to use Yeahpoint touch screens offer customers an interactive test as well as a print out of results. Their convenient retail location enables people to fit the test into their active lifestyle.

Hearing loss can be extremely isolating. The straightforward nature of a touch screen test strikes a chord with the busy baby boomer generation and younger workers who may not have time to book a hearing test. The convenient locations of the touch screen tests offer money and time savings, as they act as a screening test using a free, virtual audiologist.

The touch screens are a quick way for clients to see whether they need to undergo a full, diagnostic test with a qualified clinician.

The company initially provided 10 screens, but demand increased till now there are 85 touch screen hearing tests in Australian Bay Audio stores. There are plans to add more of the touch screens in retail locations across Australia. Future plans also include locations in South East Asia including Hong Kong and Singapore.

The technology behind the testing is very flexible, said Ed Maznio, owner of Arizona hearing centers providing hearing aids in Lake Havasu City and Peoria hearing aids. Hopefully this technology will soon be available in the US.

Unfortunately, you can not have a one size fits all approach with the touch screen testing and expect success. The hearing tests provide a service to the customer but the goal is to determine a possible problem with ones hearing allowing the opportunity for early detection. A followup with a professional audiologist will be required if something is detected.

Early detection is essential in any potentially life altering condition. Due to the issues the elderly have with hearing aids and their reluctance to come into a clinic for a comprehensive hearing exam, these convenient to access testing locations have the potential to greatly impact the quality of life for thousands of people of all ages.