In the US, nearly 30 million people are thought to need hearing aids. Yet only one in three people actually wear one (source: NIDCD). Despite the lingering stigma, wearing a hearing aid can significantly improve your quality of life, allowing you to fully engage with your surroundings. Recognizing the signs that you may need a hearing aid and taking the step to get your hearing checked is the first stride towards regaining clear hearing.
But often, the unknown is scary for people, and knowing what to expect when you get your hearing aid can put your mind at ease and make the decision to get one that little bit easier.
Here’s something you need to know about life with a hearing aid.
It Will Take Time To Adjust
Remember, a hearing aid is not an instant fix; it’s a journey. Your audiologist or hearing specialist will meticulously calibrate the sound level, quality, and fit to suit your needs. However, it’s normal to take some time to acclimate to the newfound clarity. So, if you don’t immediately adjust to wearing your hearing aid, there’s no need to worry. It’s all part of the process.
You Don’t Need To Wear It Constantly
This is especially true in the first few weeks, and you will likely be told at your appointment, and you should adhere to this, that you need to build up your wearing time gradually. Start off with an hour just in the house with little or no noise around you so you can get used to things. Then, build up from here by wearing it longer, or turning the TV or radio on while having conversations, and so on. This gradual increase in wearing time allows your brain to adapt to the new sounds and helps prevent discomfort. And before you know it, you will be wearing it for longer durations and in noisy environments with ease.
It Needs Care and Maintenance
Hearing aids are remarkable pieces of technology, but they require regular care to function optimally. They’re not invincible, and mishandling can lead to damage. By adopting a simple routine of cleaning them after each use, removing the battery when not in use, and storing them in their case, you can keep them clean, dry, and safe. Additionally, learning some hearing aid maintenance tips can help you extend their lifespan and reduce the need for frequent repairs due to misuse.
Expect Small Issues
There are many things that can go wrong when you’re getting used to something new, especially something that is as intimate as wearing a hearing device on your ear. You might find that you become frustrated with wearing the device, or it doesn’t sit well, or that you can’t get it in the right position easily. These are common issues that many people experience during the adjustment period. You might find that the sound is too high for you or doesn’t feel right, or there might be a bit of pain and discomfort. These are also normal and can often be adjusted by your provider. Always refer back to your provider with any issues, as they can adjust the fit and settings for you and work with you to overcome these little hiccups.
