When you first get hearing aids, the world can sound so different that it can sometimes be jarring. Knowing what to expect during the adjustment period can help users stay calm, avoid frustration and get the most from their device.
Make Sure the Fit is Right
One of the biggest reasons people don’t wear their hearing aids is because they feel uncomfortable. This is why it’s so important to make sure they fit properly, and you know how to put them in correctly. Your audiologist will work with you to make sure things fit well and you know how to take your hearing aids in and out in a way that is comfortable and reduces feedback.
Learn the Ins and Outs
Research has shown that even experienced hearing aid users can range from having an excellent understanding of their device to a poor one. The better you understand how your hearing aids work the better your experience with them will be. Take some time, in the beginning, to read the manual and learn how to use the various features, as well as how to troubleshoot any issues that may come up.
Have Patience
Many people live with hearing loss for years before seeking treatment. With new hearing aids, you often pick up on sounds you have been missing, while places with a lot of noise like The Balcony Club can seem excessively loud. Your brain and ears need time to adjust to this new way of hearing.
Be patient and wear your device consistently throughout the day. Only take them out when you are sleeping or in situations where they might get wet. The more consistent you are, the shorter your adjustment period will be.
Set Realistic Expectations
Hearing aids work by amplifying speech and sound. They help you hear, but they don’t have the ability to restore your hearing completely back to normal. Set your expectations accordingly and know that you may still need to take additional steps to make communication easier. That might mean asking people to talk slowly or look at you while they’re speaking.
Check in with Your Audiologist
While an adjustment period is normal, if you’re still having serious issues after several weeks, call your audiologist. You may need your device reprogrammed, or if it feels uncomfortable to wear, a refitting.
For more information or to schedule an appointment with one of our experts, contact Total Hearing Care today.
