Accessibility Options

RT Speech and Hearing is committed to access and inclusion. We are always working to improve the quality and accessibility of our website.

Accessibility options that may help you to access the site include:

Text size
Contrast
Comprehensive Hearing Tests
Book an Appointment

A hearing test is a key first step to taking control of your hearing health

Hearing Tests & Assessments in Perth

At RT Speech and Hearing, we’re an independent Audiologist. That means when our audiologists put together a treatment plan or suggest a hearing aid, it’s because it’s genuinely the best fit for you, not because we have any obligation to a particular brand. When you come in for a hearing assessment, we do more than just test your hearing. We take the time to walk you through your results, answer your questions, and make sure you have all the info you need to make confident decisions about your hearing health.

Our Comprehensive Hearing Test Process

Case History and Communication Assessment: We begin with a thorough review of your hearing, lifestyle and communication history, taking time to understand your unique journey and any previous concerns or interventions. Our team assesses current communication methods, whether you use verbal communication, AAC devices, sign language, or a combination of approaches.

Physical Examination: Our audiologists conduct a careful visual inspection of your ears and ear canals to identify any obvious structural concerns or barriers to hearing. We assess for wax buildup or other obstructions that might affect your hearing and perform tympanometry testing to evaluate how well your middle ear is functioning. This non-invasive test helps us understand if there are any mechanical issues affecting sound transmission through your ear.

Pure Tone Audiometry: This fundamental hearing test assesses your hearing sensitivity across different sound frequencies, from low-pitched to high-pitched tones. We conduct both bone and air conduction testing to determine whether any hearing loss is related to problems in the outer/middle ear or the inner ear and auditory nerve.

Speech Audiometry: Beyond just hearing tones, we evaluate your ability to understand and process speech sounds, which is crucial for effective communication. Testing includes assessment in both quiet environments and with background noise, as real-world listening often involves competing sounds.

When Should You Book a Hearing Test?

Regular Hearing Assessments Are Essential

We recommend annual hearing assessments for all individuals, particularly those with:

  • Existing communication difficulties
  • Neurodevelopmental conditions
  • History of ear infections or hearing concernsTaking
  • medications that may affect hearing
  • Exposure to loud noises or environments

Recognising the Signs of Hearing Loss

For individuals with complex communication needs, hearing loss signs may be subtle or attributed to other conditions. Look out for:

Communication Changes:

  • Increased difficulty following instructions
  • More frequent requests for repetition
  • Changes in speech clarity or volume
  • Reduced responsiveness to name or verbal cues

Behavioural Indicators:

  • Increased volume on devices or TVs
  • Positioning closer to sound sources
  • Appearing inattentive or distracted
  • Changes in social engagement or participation

Physical Signs:

  • Frequent ear touching or complaints
  • Balance difficulties or increased falls
  • Tinnitus (ringing, buzzing in ears)
  • Ear pain or discharge

Why Choose RT Speech and Hearing for Your Hearing Assessment?

Culturally Sensitive and Individualised Approach

We understand that each person’s needs are unique, and we tailor our assessment approach to accommodate sensory sensitivities, communication preferences, and cultural considerations.

Understanding Hearing Loss and Its Impact

Hearing loss affects over 3.55 million Australians, with nearly half aged between 16-64 years. For individuals with complex communication needs, undiagnosed hearing difficulties can significantly compound existing challenges, making early detection and intervention crucial.

Understanding Your Results

Following your assessment, you’ll receive a detailed audiogram that clearly explains your hearing levels across all tested frequencies, accompanied by a thorough explanation of results presented in accessible language that you and your support team can easily understand. We provide a comprehensive impact assessment that explores how your hearing results may be affecting your communication abilities and daily living activities, helping you understand the real-world implications of your hearing status. Our reporting includes specific, actionable recommendations for intervention, ongoing monitoring, or referral to other specialists, ensuring you have a clear path forward for maintaining or improving your hearing health and communication outcomes.

Getting Started with Your Hearing Assessment

Booking Your Appointment

To book your comprehensive hearing assessment:

  • Phone or email: Contact our Perth clinic directly
  • Urgent Concerns: Priority appointments available for hearing safety issues

Preparing for Your Visit

  • Bring a family member or companion
  • Discuss any sensory sensitivities or accommodation needs
  • Consider bringing familiar comfort items
  • Plan for extended appointment time if needed
  • Arrange support person attendance if beneficial