Tips for Getting Used to Your New Hearing Aids

Struggling with new hearing aids? You're not alone. We, too, have grappled with the discomfort and initial disorientation of adapting to these devices; in fact, most users experience some difficulty during this adjustment period.

This blog is here to guide you through simple steps and practical tips, such as gradually increasing your wearing time or starting by using them at home. Ready for a smoother transition into amplified sound? Read on!

Key Takeaways

• Start by wearing your hearing aids at home to gradually increase comfort and familiarity.

• Gradually increase the time you wear them each day to allow your ears and brain to adjust.

• Practice listening to everyday noises and use your hearing aids while watching TV for better adaptation.

• Have conversations with one person at a time and ask for clarifications or repetitions if needed.

• Practice using your hearing aids outside, join group conversations, and utilize them in noisy places for improved communication skills.

• Take breaks when needed, attend follow - up visits with your audiologist, consider attending hearing aid care classes, and report any pain or discomfort.

Tips for Getting Used to Your New Hearing Aids

Start by wearing your hearing aids at home to gradually increase your comfort and familiarity with them.

Start by wearing them at home

Put your new hearing aids on at home first. It's a safe place to adjust to them. At home, you can try out the sounds and see how they feel in your ears. You will hear new noises, such as the clock ticking or the fridge running.

These are normal sounds that you might not have heard before. This step is important for getting used to your new hearing aids smoothly.

Gradually increase the time you wear them

To help you adjust to your new hearing aids, it's important to gradually increase the amount of time you wear them each day. Start by wearing them at home for short periods, and then slowly extend the duration over time.

This allows your ears and brain to become familiar with the sounds produced by the devices. By increasing the time gradually, you give yourself a chance to adapt without feeling overwhelmed.

Remember, getting used to hearing aids takes time and patience, so be consistent in wearing them and keep practising to get the most out of your new devices.

Practise listening to everyday noises

When you start wearing your new hearing aids, it's important to practise listening to everyday noises. This can help you get used to the different sounds that you may not have heard before.

Start by paying attention to the sounds around you in your home, such as the ticking of a clock or the sound of running water. Gradually, try to identify and differentiate between various sounds like footsteps or birds chirping outside.

By actively listening and familiarising yourself with these everyday noises, you can adapt more easily to your new hearing aids and feel more confident in different environments.

Use your hearing aids while watching TV

We recommend using your hearing aids while watching TV to help you get accustomed to the new sounds. By wearing your hearing aids during TV time, you can adjust to different voices and sounds that may have been difficult to hear before.

This will also allow you to make any necessary volume adjustments on your hearing aids for optimal listening comfort. Remember, it's important to start with a comfortable volume level and gradually increase it as needed.

Additionally, subtitles or closed captions can be helpful in enhancing your understanding of the dialogue and making the TV-watching experience more enjoyable.

Have conversations with one person

When you're adjusting to your new hearing aids, it can be helpful to have conversations with just one person at a time. This allows you to focus on their voice and practise understanding their speech more effectively.

By engaging in one-on-one conversations, you can gradually get used to the new sounds and clarity provided by your hearing aids. Don't hesitate to ask the person you're talking to for any necessary clarifications or repetitions, if needed.

Over time, these interactions will become easier and more natural as you continue to build confidence in using your hearing aids. Remember that patience is key during this adjustment period, and don't be afraid to reach out for support from your audiologist or loved ones as well.

Communicating in Different Situations

Practice using your hearing aids outside, engage in group conversations, and utilise your hearing aids in noisy places to improve communication skills.

Practice using your hearing aids outside

We understand that using your hearing aids outside can be challenging at first, but it's an important step in getting used to them. Start by finding a quiet outdoor space where you feel comfortable.

Gradually increase the amount of time you spend wearing your hearing aids outside each day. This will give you the opportunity to adapt to different sounds and the new environment.

Remember to focus on connecting words with sounds and pay attention to different noises around you. If you need support or have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out to your audiologist for guidance.

Join group conversations

When adjusting to your new hearing aids, joining group conversations can be a helpful strategy. This allows you to practise listening and communicating in a more challenging setting.

It's important to let others know about your hearing loss so they can accommodate you if needed. Don't be afraid to ask people to speak louder or slower if necessary. Engaging in group conversations can improve your confidence and ability to understand speech in different situations.

Additionally, it provides an opportunity for social interaction, which is beneficial for mental well-being. Remember, with patience and practise, you'll become more comfortable participating in group discussions with the support of your hearing aids.

Use your hearing aids in noisy places

When you're in a noisy environment, it's important to use your hearing aids to help you hear better. They can help amplify the sounds around you and make it easier for you to understand conversations.

By wearing your hearing aids in noisy places, such as restaurants or social gatherings, you'll be able to pick up more details and participate more fully in conversations. This can improve your overall communication experience and enhance your social interactions.

So don't forget to wear your hearing aids when you're in loud environments!

Helpful Strategies

- Take breaks when needed to give your ears a rest and avoid overwhelming yourself with sounds.

- Attend follow-up visits with your audiologist to ensure your hearing aids are properly adjusted and functioning optimally.

- Consider attending hearing aid care classes to learn more about maintenance and troubleshooting for your specific devices.

- If you experience any pain or discomfort while wearing your hearing aids, be sure to report it to your audiologist for adjustments or alternative solutions.

Take breaks if needed

If you're getting used to your new hearing aids, it's important to take breaks if needed. Adjusting to the new sounds can be overwhelming at times, so give yourself some time to rest and recharge.

This will help prevent any discomfort or fatigue that may arise from wearing your hearing aids for long periods of time. Remember, it's a process, and taking breaks is perfectly okay.

Just be sure to gradually increase the amount of time you wear your hearing aids each day as you become more comfortable with them.

Attend follow-up visits with your audiologist

It's important to attend follow-up visits with your audiologist after getting new hearing aids. These visits are essential for proper care and adjustments to ensure that your devices are working optimally for you.

Your audiologist can make any necessary tweaks or modifications based on your feedback and evaluate your progress in adapting to the hearing aids. These regular check-ups also provide an opportunity for you to ask questions, seek guidance, and address any concerns you may have.

By attending these follow-up visits, you can ensure that you're making the most of your hearing aids and receiving the support you need throughout your journey towards better hearing.

Consider attending hearing aid care classes

Attending classes about hearing aid care can be very helpful for you. These classes can teach you how to properly maintain and use your hearing aids. You can learn important skills, like cleaning your devices and changing batteries. The classes also provide an opportunity to ask questions and get additional support.

By attending these classes, you can become more confident in managing your hearing aids on a daily basis. So, consider taking advantage of these resources to make the most of your new devices.

Report any pain or discomfort

If you experience any pain or discomfort while wearing your new hearing aids, it's important to let your audiologist know right away. Your audiologist can make adjustments to ensure that your devices fit comfortably and work properly.

Don't hesitate to reach out if something doesn't feel right, as addressing any issues early on can prevent further discomfort and help you get the most out of your hearing aids. Remember, your comfort and satisfaction with your hearing aids are top priorities for your healthcare team.

Conclusion

In conclusion, adjusting to new hearing aids may take time and patience. By wearing them at home, gradually increasing usage, practicing with everyday noises, and seeking support from loved ones, you can become more comfortable with your devices.

Remember to attend follow-up visits with your audiologist and consider attending hearing aid care classes for additional guidance. With consistent effort and practice, you can successfully adapt to your new hearing aids and improve your overall communication experience.

FAQs

1. How long does it take to get used to new hearing aids?

It may take a few weeks or months to fully adjust to your new hearing aids and get accustomed to the sounds around you.

2. Can I wear my hearing aids all day?

Yes, you can wear your hearing aids throughout the day, but it's important to gradually increase the wearing time to allow your ears and brain to adjust.

3. What should I do if my new hearing aids feel uncomfortable?

If your new hearing aids feel uncomfortable, try adjusting their position or consulting with an audiologist for proper fitting and adjustment.

4. Are there any tips for adapting quickly to my new hearing aids?

Some tips for adapting quickly include wearing them in quiet environments initially, practising listening skills regularly, and being patient as you become familiar with different sounds again.

5. Can I wear my hearing aids while sleeping? 

No, it is not recommended to wear your hearing aids while sleeping, as it can cause discomfort and damage to the devices.

6. Can I wear my hearing aids while swimming or showering? 

No, most hearing aids are not waterproof and should be removed before swimming or showering to prevent damage.