5 Quick Tips for Getting Used to Hearing Aids
When you first get hearing aids, you will find that you will need a small adjustment period to help you get used to them. The first couple of days with your new devices can be the make or break of whether you choose to continue with your devices. To help the adjustment period go as smoothly as possible, here are five quick tips for getting used to hearing aids.
Learn the Basics
Learning the basics about how your hearing aid works should be your first port of call. When having your hearing aid fitted, your audiologist should have filled you in on how to use it, how to put it in and take it out, as well as how to change its batteries. You should also have been told about how many hours you should wear your hearing aid each day to help you get adjusted.
Know What’s Normal and What’s Not
The adjustment period for your hearing aid can be challenging. At first, you may find that your hearing aid feels uncomfortable. If you’re experiencing discomfort, your specialist may advise you to only wear it for a certain part of the day, helping you to get used to it. You may also hear a whistling sound (otherwise known as feedback) which tends to happen if the hearing aid does not fit right. If you experience any feedback, it’s important that you see your audiologist as soon as possible.
Be Proactive About Conversations
Once your hearing aid is fitted, you may find that the world around you sounds completely different, making it hard for you to join in on conversations. Instead of pretending that everything is fine, make sure that you explain to your family and friends that you’re getting used to your new device. No matter who you talk to, letting them know about your situation will make things that little bit easier.
Give It Time
Just like with most things in life, it’s important that you give yourself the time you need to adjust to your hearing aid. If you’ve suffered from poor hearing for most of your life, many sounds can feel strange and even upsetting, especially if you’re now able to hear sounds that you couldn’t before.
Visit Your Audiologist
Staying in regular contact with your audiologist is important. Having follow-up appointments will give you the opportunity to express your thoughts and concerns, especially if you’re struggling with the adjustment period. Your audiologist may advise you to take an aural rehabilitation session, which covers a range of hearing issues, such as how best to use your hearing aid, and how to communicate better with others who do not have hearing loss.
Finding a Hearing Aid
If you’re not happy with the hearing aid you have, or you’ve yet to have one fitted, you may be interested in visiting Sensehearing.com.
If you’re having difficulty getting used to your hearing aid, try and remember all the benefits that it can bring. Having a hearing aid can be life-changing, so giving yourself time to get used to your new device, staying in regular contact with your audiologist, and having a strong support network of family and friends can be a big help.
