Can a Carer Join a Home Ear Examination?

A relative or carer can join a Hazelwood home ear examination when the person receiving care wants their support. Before the visit, ask what would help. They might want someone to remember questions or take notes, or they might prefer to speak with the clinician alone for part of the appointment.

If hearing changes suddenly, contact a GP urgently or seek help from NHS 111. The NHS hearing loss guidance also advises urgent help when hearing worsens over days or weeks or hearing loss occurs with earache or discharge.

When is it useful for a carer to attend?

It can help when the person wants someone nearby to remember details, clarify an access arrangement or write down the plan. Ask which parts they want help with. For example, someone may want you to stay while the clinician explains what will happen, then step out when they are ready for the examination. Hazelwood’s guide for families and carers explains how a relative can help arrange a visit.

Help the person lead the conversation

Give them time to tell the clinician what they have noticed. If they ask you to add something, describe a specific example, such as when they first started asking you to repeat yourself. Speak one at a time and ask before sharing anything they may want to discuss privately. Let them decide whether they would like you to keep a note.

Make it easier to hear and follow the discussion

Turn down the television or radio, sit where the person can see the speaker’s face and ask how they prefer to communicate. If an explanation is hard to follow, ask for it to be put another way or written down. RNID’s communication tips include ways to make conversations clearer in person and over the phone.

If a carer cannot be there in person

Help the person write their questions in their own words before the appointment. If they would like you to join by phone for the discussion, check with the booking team in advance. Confirm what the person wants shared afterwards and whether they would prefer a written summary they can pass on themselves.

Before the clinician leaves

Ask the person whether they have any remaining questions. If they want your help taking notes, write down what was explained, any next step and who to contact if they need clarification. Check that the person has the notes and agrees with anything you plan to share.

For a routine visit, read what a Hazelwood home ear examination involves or check home-visit availability. Tell the booking team about communication or access needs when arranging the visit.