SINGER Daniel O'Donnell and his wife Majella have urged people aged over 50 to get their hearing tested and not take it "for granted".
The celebrity couple said they became involved in a worldwide campaign for better hearing as the issue is personal to them as Majella wears a hearing aid.
Figures show that around 33 per cent of hearing loss in Northern Ireland is untreated, with one of the reasons being the "perceived stigma at wearing a hearing device".
But the 'Campaign for Better Hearing, which is backed in Ireland by Hidden Hearing, encourages those aged over 50 to have their hearing tested and educate themselves about hearing loss.
Majella, who wears a 'oticon opn' hearing device in one ear, said she still lives her "life to the full" and is urging others to get their hearing checked.
"I know from personal experience that it is important to preserve your hearing, because untreated hearing loss can only make the problem worse, and sooner," she said.
"Life is worth hearing, so book a free check-up with Hidden Hearing".
Donegal singer O'Donnell added: "Chatting to the neighbours, enjoying a concert or play, or simply hearing the world go by outside is significant to our well-being.
"One in four people over the age of 50 actually suffers from hearing loss, so the call is for everyone to test their ears at 50 years."
Free hearing tests are available at Hidden Hearing clinics throughout Northern Ireland as part of the campaign. For further information, please visit www.hiddenhearing.org or www.campaignforbetterhearingni.org
