However sitting around the table and not being able to hear the conversation on Christmas Day is not ideal, so audiology professionals are urging locals to get their hearing checked before it comes to that.

Audiology partner at Specsavers Bathurst and Orange, Amy Thompson, is hoping to raise some awareness around the importance of encouraging loved ones to look after their hearing.

"A lot of the research revealed a common reason Australians find it hard to tell someone that they think they may be hard of hearing is because they might hurt their feelings," she said.

"It can be quite upsetting and lonely when everyone appears to be having a good time but the hearing loss stops someone from having a good time, catching the punchline of a joke or following what a conversation is about."

Specsavers Bathurst has been specialising in hearing as well as eyesight for the last 12 months.

Customers over 40 who book in for an eye test have also been receiving a hearing test as part of their health checks.

Ms Thompson said it's an easy, proactive way to keep on top of things.

"We know on average it takes people about seven to 10 years to act on hearing loss after it's been identified as a problem," she said.

"Just encouraging a family member to get their hearing checked especially in the lead up to Christmas is such a relevant thing to do."

Signs that indicate someone is beginning to have hearing difficulties include asking for the volume to be turned up; asking people to repeat themselves; lip reading; and leaning over the table to hear someone.

Specsavers offers a free 15-minute hearing check to customers and if any issues arise the audiologist will explain the next best steps based on the customer's needs and budget.

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