Many people are often shocked to find out that it can take them some time to get used to their new hearing aids. After all, in addition to learning to operate them, new wearers are also figuring out how to deal with all the new sounds their brain has likely forgotten over the years. Here are a few things one can do to ease the process.
- Wear the device at home: For people who’ve recently purchased their first hearing aid, it’s a good idea to only wear the device at home or in other quiet environments. While wearing the hearing aid, try to have a few one-on-one conversations. One can also read aloud or speak to a pet, so they get used to hearing their own voice. Once a person is comfortable hearing themselves, it’s a good idea to try and locate the sources of each sound that they hear in their environment.
- Take breaks from the hearing aid: In the beginning, it’s best to only wear hearing aid devices for a few hours. Gradually, over a period of time, make sure to increase the number of hours that they are worn and also change the situation in which they are worn.
- Go for follow-up visits: It’s important that new wearers visit their hearing care professional from time to time so they can fine-tune the device at the right time. They will also be able to adjust the fit, so one is physically more comfortable when wearing the device. What’s more, new wearers can also talk about their challenges with the device to such professionals.
- Be prepared for some frustration: If one hasn’t been able to hear well for the last few years, it is natural to experience some frustration after wearing hearing aid devices. After all, the ears are now suddenly flooded with sounds that were not heard before, and it can get a little overwhelming. So, if one is adjusting to hearing aids, it’s important to be patient and take it slow. Just ensure to report any discomfort or pain immediately so the doctor can fix the problem.
