The Project aims to tackle access issues to hearing care services experienced by older Australians in rural and remote areas. Building on a successful pilot funded by ARIIA (1), this initiative will demonstrate the integration of Sound Scouts Hearing Screening Service at the point of care in collaboration with Whiddon, a regional aged care provider, with clinical support provided by Hearing Australia.
Many regional communities lack accessible hearing services due to workforce shortages and distance from urban centres. This Project addresses these issues by providing an easy-to-use, clinically validated digital hearing test, directly into aged care facilities and community care services, removing the need for residents to travel for assessments. Aged care staff working in homes, and across community care services, will be trained to conduct hearing screenings, allowing ongoing monitoring and timely intervention.
Test results will inform personalised care plans, ensure prompt referrals to Hearing Australia and other specialists, and improve communication strategies. The Project will also investigate how digital screenings can ease the pressure on local, regional healthcare systems.