Creating safe spaces for hearing health

For audiologist and Specsavers Audiology Partner, Carmela, the Retirement Village Outreach Programme is about far more than hearing checks. It’s about connection, trust, and giving elderly New Zealanders the confidence to take their hearing health seriously.

The hidden impact of hearing loss

“Hearing loss is such an invisible disability,” Carmela explains. “Most people don’t realise how much they’re missing until it’s much worse. That’s why early intervention is key.”

Through the programme, residents receive free 15-minute hearing checks, education workshops, and a safe space to talk openly about their hearing concerns — often for the very first time. “I really love that it creates a safe space for people to share with their peers,” she says. “It makes the whole process of rehabilitation easier when you’re not alone.”

Challenges faced in retirement villages

Common challenges often come up: difficulty following conversations in social spaces, needing the TV at full volume, or frustration with loved ones over constant repeats. In retirement villages — where community life is so important — these barriers can cause residents to withdraw and feel isolated.

Data gathered from residents taking part in DHHF’s retirement village outreach programme told us that 68% of residents struggle to hear in communal settings, and 28% avoid group activities because of it.”

A collaborative, caring approach

Carmela has seen how the programme is changing that story.

“It helps build trust and relationships, not just between residents and their audiologist, but also within the community itself. People begin to understand that hearing health isn’t just about aids or devices. It’s about staying connected, staying sharp, and protecting their overall wellbeing.”

Photo of Carmel at work.

Working alongside the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Foundation, Carmela says the collaborative approach makes the programme feel less commercial and more empowering. “Residents know we’re not just here to sell them something — we’re here to inform, support, and walk alongside them.”

For Carmela, the motivation is simple. “I became an audiologist because I wanted to help people. This programme lets me do that not just inside a clinic, but out in the community, where it’s needed most.”

Through the Retirement Village Outreach Programme, residents aren’t just getting their hearing checked — they’re gaining confidence, awareness, and a renewed chance to stay connected to the world and the people they love.

How you can help this holiday season

Looking ahead, we want to ensure even more older Kiwis have access to this life-changing programme. That’s why our holiday appeal is raising funds to extend the Retirement Village Outreach Programme to 140 villages in 2026. Every gift you make during the appeal will be matched by Specsavers - up to $10,000. With your support, we can help thousands more residents protect their hearing, preserve precious memories, and stay connected to the people who matter most.

Give today to our holiday appeal

Real life stories from our retirement villages

Want to hear the difference this programme makes for residents themselves? Read John and Gillian’s story and discover how hearing support is helping them stay connected to their family, their community, and their future.

Read Gillian and John's story