If the world around you has started to sound a little muffled, it might be time for a hearing check — or perhaps just a quick inspection to rule out stray toys or bugs. McGill University’s School of Communication Sciences and Disorders is once again offering free hearing screenings to the public. Taking place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday this week in McGill’s School of Communication Sciences and Disorders building, screenings will be free and available on a first-come, first-served basis to adults and children three years old and up. The screenings are conducted by second-year speech-language pathology students at McGill and will be under the supervision of licensed audiologists. Maryse Robidoux-Leonard, clinical educator in McGill’s school of communication sciences and disorder, said the initiative aims to promote hearing health while providing students with valuable hands-on experience. “It’s a good opportunity for our students to practise what they’ve learned and to raise awareness about hearing loss and its prevention,” Robidoux-Leonard said. Participants can expect a straightforward process: an ear examination, a check of eardrum movement, and a test of different pitches and volume the person is able to hear. Results are then provided on the day, either confirming healthy hearing or suggesting a follow-up with an audiologist. But not all outcomes are routine. “We’ve found bugs or toys sitting in people’s ears,” Robidoux-Leonard said with a laugh. “It’s not very common, but remember: Don’t put anything into your ears.” The event comes amid broader concerns like noise-induced hearing loss, Robidoux-Leonard said, which is a growing issue tied to modern habits like loud music and excessive headphone use. “The world is a bit noisy. There’s a lot of noise, either at work or people’s daily habits with headphones, and those habits can lead to hearing loss.” Last year’s screenings drew nearly 300 participants, with about a third referred for further evaluation. This year, Robidoux-Leonard said they hope to match that turnout. An information booth in the building’s lobby will also provide guidance and answer questions. Robidoux-Leonard said the event offers an accessible way for people to address their hearing health, whether they suspect an issue or simply want reassurance — without the worry of hidden surprises like bugs or toys. Related For people living in silence, cochlear implants can help lift the weight of isolation Long-awaited cochlear implant surgery coming to Montreal

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