Wearing a hearing aid device, no matter how small it is, for the first time can be overwhelming. But it’s important to keep in mind that they’re an investment in one’s own health and well-being. The more often one uses their hearing aids, the better they’ll be able to hear and understand conversations. Here are a few tips that will help wearers get used to their hearing aid devices.
Start by Using Them at Home or In Other Quiet Listening Environments
Focus on having one-on-one conversations before putting them to the test in loud or crowded spaces. Also, people who use hearing aids should let their friends and family know, so they can help wearers stay committed to wearing the aids in more challenging environments. Reading aloud or talking to pets can help one get used to their own voice, too!
Don’t Wear Them Continuously
Wear hearing aids for a few hours the first day, then a few more hours every day after that. Gradually increase the number of hours every day, so wearing them doesn’t become too overwhelming.
Schedule Follow up Visits
It’s important to see the hearing care professional for as many follow-up visits as is needed to fine-tune the sounds one is hearing, adjust the fit, and talk about the situations that are most challenging. Wearers can expect a lot of tweaking during these early stages, so don’t be surprised if there are multiple follow-up visits in those first few weeks. The audiologist will ask what’s working well and what isn’t. So, be prepared to answer honestly.
Be Prepared for Some Frustration
People who decide to purchase a new hearing aid should be prepared for some frustration at first. If one hasn’t heard well in a few years, hearing aids flood the ears with sounds that weren’t noticeable before, and it can be a bit of an overload for the senses. This is because the brain has forgotten how to sort out background noise and prioritize important sound waves over others. So, take it slow and be patient. However, if one is experiencing pain or discomfort, it’s a good idea to visit the audiologist.
