Tips for Getting Used to and Caring for New Hearing Aids
If you've just gotten new hearing aids, congratulations on taking this empowering step! Adjusting to wearing hearing aids takes time and patience. But with proper care and realistic expectations, you can smoothly transition to improved hearing ability. Follow these tips to break in your new hearing aids:
Allow Time to Adjust
Your brain needs 2-4 weeks to get comfortable processing amplified sounds again. Start by wearing aids in quiet environments and gradually increase wear time. Use the volume control to find an optimal, comfortable level. It takes practice tuning out background noise to focus on voices.
Keep Devices Clean
Meticulously clean your hearing aids daily by brushing debris away and wiping down with a dry cloth. Remove moisture and earwax buildup which can block sound. Consider investing in a hearing aid cleaning kit with small brushes, cloths, and cleaning solution. This makes daily cleaning easier.
Store Devices Properly
Place aids in a clean, secure case or storage container overnight. This protects them and allows ventilation to avoid moisture accumulation. Be sure to turn them off first to conserve battery. Replace domes and other parts routinely as directed. Having spare hearing aid domes on hand helps you swap them out immediately when needed.
Replace Parts Routinely
Swap out wax guards, domes, tubes and other parts as directed. Blocked or ill-fitting components reduce sound quality and comfort. Replacement kits are inexpensive.
Be Patient with Yourself
Adjusting to amplified sounds, new sensations, and handling aids takes time. Remind yourself this is a process. Over several weeks, your brain will acclimate and wearing aids will feel natural.
See Your Audiologist
Schedule follow-ups with your audiologist for adjustments and guidance. They can tweak settings and make sure aids are optimally fitted. Seek help immediately if skin irritation or discomfort occurs.
Caring diligently for new devices, allowing your brain time to adapt, and consulting your audiologist will make the transition smoother. Approach new hearings aids as an exciting step towards revitalizing your hearing and communication.