In this segment, we provide you some helpful information about exactly what you can expect in the first few weeks after purchasing hearing aids.
Tip 1: Being patient is the key.
When we haven’t heard sounds in a long time and then put on hearing aids, our brains don’t immediately remember how to tune out the sounds that aren’t as important, such as footsteps or noise of the fan. It takes time for your brain to adjust.
We expect at least 4 -6 weeks of adaptation period.
Tip 2: The more you use the hearing aids, the more accustomed you get to your own voice
Your voice may sound different at first.
“While hearing aids help you hear others, hearing aids also make your own voice sound different. You will hear yourself better, and it may be louder than you are used to. The more you use the hearing aids, the more accustomed to your new voice you will become.”
Tip 3: Clean your hearing aids regularly.
The one thing new users should know is that they have to make sure that they are cleaning their hearing aids regularly especially the “Wax filters”. These are always the first thing we check when patients come in to the clinic saying that their aids are not working for them.
Tip 4: Schedule regular hearing evaluations/ follow up visits.
Wearing the aids from twelve to fourteen hours every day will help the patient adapt and hear better. Also, it’s important for patients to come in to their follow-up visits with us, so we can be sure they are adapting well.
Tip 5: Wear them all day.
“I would say that to get the most out of their hearing aids, users need to be wearing them from the time they get up to the time they go to bed. This will give them the maximum opportunity to hear the best.”
Use your hearing aids every day, all day long. Soon you will be accustomed to the feeling in your ears, as well as all the new and different sounds you are hearing. If anything is uncomfortably loud or continues to bother you, tell your audiologist or hearing specialist so they can help with adjustments.”
Tip 6: Use of Communication Strategies / Accessories
Individuals with Severe degree of Hearing Loss also depend on a lot of Visual Cues (Lip Reading), it would be great if they could also integrate Hearing along with the visual cues for better Speech understanding.
There are a lot of useful accessories, especially if patients are having a harder time hearing in noise or from the TV. We welcome patients to try a free demo of these accessories in our Clinic. That way, they can experience the full benefit in Phone & TV .
And with today’s technology, it’s easier than ever for hearing care professionals to ensure your device fits your ear and your hearing abilities well. Also its important to have realistic expectations of both the capabilities and limitations of hearing aids. This will help greatly improve your experience with hearing aids.