Tips for Getting Used to Wearing New Hearing Aids

It can be an exciting time, but also a challenging one, getting used to new hearing aids. The devices represent a world of sound that many people have not been able to access, or have been unable to access clearly, but it can take some time for them to feel comfortable with the devices. So whether you’re a first-time-aid wearer or upping the technology in your devices, here are some things to know about transitioning and getting the most out of your type of hearing aid.

Start Gradually

One of the tips for getting used to hearing aids is to wear them slowly. It can be so tempting to get them on right away and wear them all day, but your ears might find that overwhelming. Hearing aids amplify all the things that you forgot to listen for in the first place, so you need to reintroduce them slowly.

Wear them in short doses to start with. Begin with an hour or two first, and slowly extend the time once you are comfortable. You will need a couple of days or a few weeks to get accustomed to sounds and being able to hear wearing hearing devices in your ears. Take breaks if necessary, but remember to practice regularly so your brain can acclimate to the new sounds.

Adjust to New Sounds

You will almost certainly hear sounds you haven’t heard in a while when you first put your hearing aids on. That includes any number of noise: rustles of clothing, hums of appliances. This can be overwhelming, but it helps to remember that these are all sounds from the world around you. The sounds that you’re hearing are not new — they’ve always been there, but your hearing has been compromised.

However, in the beginning there will be some soreness. Your brain must adapt to these new sounds and discriminate important noise from irrelevant noise. Your brain will learn to pick out what’s important and ignore the background sounds as time goes on. This is all part of the “relearning” curve, so go easy on yourself.

Get Comfortable with the Fit

The fit of your hearing aids is so important. If the hearing aids are uncomfortable or don’t fit well, you won’t be able to wear them long enough to adjust to them. To some people, hearing aids can feel large and even foreign at first. One way to mitigate this is to have your audiologist alter the fit. A proper fit allows your hearing aids to stay in position, be comfortable and perform as intended.

If you use custom hearing aids, you might need to try several ear tips or molds. In some cases, individuals need to make settings adjustments in terms of volume or amplification in order to find a comfortable fit. Feel free to go back to your audiologist if your ear hurts.

Practice Listening in Various Settings

Hearing aids are made to improve your hearing in a range of settings, but it can take time to adapt to hearing new sounds in new environments. Test wearing your hearing aids in different environments — a quiet room, a restaurant, an outdoor space. With those that you are the most comfortable, you want to ease in and then work toward environments to the more complex set ups.

This will help your brain adjust to the different types of sounds you’ll face throughout the day. It could be more difficult for you in the beginning to concentrate on conversations in a noisy environment but you’ll get used to it and the noise will fade into the background. Most hearing aids being sold today have noise-reduction technologies that can help you deal with background noise. Get to know your device’s controls and how to use these features.

Give Yourself a Break During the Transition Period

Getting used to a new pair of hearing aids doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a journey that takes time, and it’s crucial to be patient with yourself. This can be frustrating in the first few days or weeks, and thinking about giving up is natural. Keep in mind, however, that it can take a month or more for your brain to adjust completely. While navigating this time, journaling about experiences and noting what works and what doesn’t can be helpful.

If you are having pain or difficulty understanding speech, do not hesitate to reach out to your audiologist. They can make little tweaks to your hearing aids, or give you some useful hints to help you better use them.

Wear Your Hearing Aids in Diverse Social Environments

One of the great reasons for wearing hearing aids is for better communication in social situations. Embarrassed or annoyed in social situations because you’re not used to hearing aids yet? Keep going.

Begin using your hearing aids during one-on-one conversations or in small groups. Then build up to larger groups over time. You will get better at hearing and understanding speech and feel more comfortable in social settings.

Keep in mind that some people can’t understand that well with hearing aids, so someone might be speaking too fast or too unclearly, so make sure you give yourself some time to adjust and don’t be too hard on yourself. There is no shame in asking people to repeat themselves or to speak more slowly, if necessary.

Focus on Your Own Speech

Another helpful guideline is to concentrate on the way your own voice sounds when you just begin to wear hearing aids. Most are surprised by how different their voice sounds to them. Your voice may seem too loud or too soft, and you may need a while to adjust to the difference in volume.

Read aloud to people or just talk, every single day.) Doing this will program your brain to recognise your voice in the way it recognises other people’s voices. Over time, this will help you become accustomed to hearing your own voice more naturally.

If You Need it, Utilize Assistive Listening Devices

While hearing aids can enhance your hearing there may be times when you require extra help. Some hearing aids are equipped with Bluetooth capabilities or FM systems that enable you to listen to sound from your cellphone, television or computer directly through your hearing aid.

If you are in an extremely noisy environment, you may want to use accessories that work with your hearing aids, like personal amplifiers or loop systems. And these can aid in helping to make sure you hear as intended in particular environments, from the theater to a large meeting.

“Maintain Your Hearing Aid Regularly.”

Maintaining your hearing aids is vital for their efficiency. A reminder to keep your MUSEe devices clean – free of moisture, dust, and wax. Keep the batteries and the hearing aids in good working order.

It’s also a good idea to have your hearing aids cleaned to keep them in top condition.” Regular maintenance can be the key for prolonging the life of your hearing aids and improve overall sound experience.

Be Open About Your Needs

Lastly, keep in mind that everyone’s hearing requirements are unique. If you’re having a hard time with your hearing aids, don’t be afraid to say something. If you facing any difficulties, then talk to your audiologist, they can help you with some solutions.

It’s crucial to be honest about what does or does not seem right with the way your hearing aids sound. It may make you feel better if you ask for alterations or a replacement if it was necessary. Remember that your audiologist is there to provide a positive hearing aid experience.

Conclusion

Adjusting to new hearing aids can be a difficult process, but it is worth it in the end. You can ease this transition by beginning slowly, getting adjusted to new sounds, making sure they fit comfortably, and wearing them in different environments. Be patient, continue to practice, and before you know it, your hearing aids will be a necessary part of your routine, just like anything else.