Accessible audiology appointments begin with understanding how each person communicates and experiences a clinical visit. Hearing tests and ear appointments involve unfamiliar sounds, equipment and conversations. For some people—particularly those who are autistic, live with dementia, have communication difficulties or experience sensory sensitivities—knowing what to expect can make a real difference.
Wigan Hearing is an independent, family-run clinic at 30 Preston Road, Standish, Wigan WN6 0HS. We aim to make hearing care clear, respectful and accessible, with an approach that starts by asking what works best for the individual.
Tell us what would make the visit easier
When you contact us, you can explain any communication preferences or sensory needs. These might include:
- Needing simple, clear explanations and extra processing time.
- Wanting to know which equipment will be used before the appointment begins.
- Being sensitive to particular sounds or to the sensation of something near the ear.
- Using written information, visual explanations or another communication aid.
- Attending with a family member, support worker or carer.
- Needing a pause, a change of pace or an explanation before a procedure continues.
We cannot guarantee that every requested arrangement or clinical test will be possible, but discussing needs beforehand lets us plan what is reasonable and clinically suitable.
What happens during a hearing appointment?
Step 1: We discuss your hearing and needs
We will ask what you have noticed, any difficulties with hearing or ear care, relevant health history and how you prefer us to communicate. The patient should be involved in decisions as far as possible; carers and family can support the conversation with the patient’s agreement or through the appropriate decision-making process.
Step 2: We explain before examining the ear
We may look inside the ears using video otoscopy, and can describe what the instrument does before using it. No one should feel pressured to endure an assessment that is causing distress. We can stop, explain again or discuss alternatives.
Step 3: We choose appropriate tests
Depending on the patient’s needs, we may assess hearing using tones, speech or middle-ear measures such as tympanometry. Not every test suits every individual or visit. If a test cannot be completed reliably, we will explain its limitations and discuss next steps.
Step 4: We explain the results
We aim to give straightforward information about what was found and what it may mean. That might be reassurance, further assessment, independent hearing-aid advice or a recommendation for medical review. You can ask questions and request written explanations.
Ear care appointments for autistic children
We offer ear wax assessment and removal for children aged five and over when clinically appropriate. We do not carry out children’s hearing tests. Young people differ greatly in how they experience sound, touch and new surroundings. Please telephone before booking a child’s appointment so we can discuss age, communication needs, the reason for attending and whether the available appointment will be appropriate. We do not promise a particular test or outcome before assessment.
For more about auditory sensitivity, see our existing article on hearing and autism in Standish. This visiting guide focuses on what happens at the clinic rather than repeating that article.
Hearing appointments for people living with dementia
Hearing difficulties and cognitive changes can sometimes make conversations more challenging. An individualised assessment may help identify a hearing issue, but it is important not to assume that every communication difficulty is caused by hearing loss.
Supporters can help by sharing known communication preferences and practical concerns, while allowing the patient the opportunity to make choices and participate. We will work within appropriate consent and capacity requirements. NICE recommends considering hearing assessment for adults with diagnosed or suspected dementia or mild cognitive impairment where appropriate: NICE NG98.
Ear wax removal with sensory sensitivities
We use microsuction, irrigation or manual ear wax removal following an ear examination. Each feels and sounds different. Microsuction may be noisy and irrigation involves water; suitability depends on ear health, medical history and the person’s ability to tolerate the procedure. We will describe the options and avoid proceeding where doing so is not safe or appropriate.
View our ear wax removal service and current online offer, or contact us first if you are unsure whether to book and prepay.
Before the appointment: a simple checklist
- Tell us what the person finds difficult and what communication approach helps.
- Bring hearing aids, glasses or communication aids if relevant.
- Bring earlier hearing results or useful medical information if you have it.
- Ask in advance about any accessibility arrangements rather than assuming they are available.
- Allow time to discuss the findings after the assessment.
You can learn more about reasonable adjustments in healthcare from NHS England.
Talk to us before booking
Call 01257 444044 or visit our contact page and tell us what would help. We welcome questions from patients and supporters, and we’ll advise on a suitable next step. Free customer parking is available behind the clinic.