Adjusting to new hearing aids can be a daunting experience, but it doesn’t have to be. Hearing aids can help improve your overall quality of life, and getting accustomed to them takes time and patience.
Hearing Aids Vs Prescription Eyeglasses
It’s natural to wonder why adjusting to hearing aids takes longer than adjusting to prescription eyeglasses. The answer lies in the fundamental differences between the two types of devices.
Prescription eyeglasses correct vision by simply bending light rays entering the eye. They can instantly provide clear vision once the correct prescription is determined. The adjustment process involves getting used to seeing more clearly and wearing the glasses on your face.
On the other hand, hearing aids do not simply amplify sound. They are sophisticated devices that process and amplify sound based on your unique hearing loss. This means that the sound you hear through hearing aids is different from what you would hear naturally. It can take time for your brain to adapt to the new sounds and process them correctly. In addition, many people with hearing loss have been without certain sounds for years, so hearing them again can be a shock to the system.
Furthermore, hearing loss can affect how the brain processes speech and other sounds. The brain needs time to relearn how to process sounds through hearing aids, which can take longer than adjusting to prescription eyeglasses.
With these thoughts in mind, let’s go through some tips to help make the transition to hearing aids as smooth as possible.
Familiarize Yourself with Your New Hearing Aids
One of the first things you should do after getting new hearing aids is to read the manual. The manual will provide you with information on the different features and settings of your hearing aids, and how to properly use them. Take your time and make sure you understand everything before starting to use them.
Experiment with different settings. Each person’s hearing is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. Most modern hearing aids come with different settings, so you can adjust them to your liking. Play around with the settings until you find what works best for you.
Practice inserting and removing your hearing aids. This may seem trivial, but it’s essential to practice inserting and removing your hearing aids until you can do it easily and comfortably. This will ensure that you can properly wear and take care of your hearing aids.
Be Patient with the Adjustment Process
Adjusting to new hearing aids takes time, so it’s important to set realistic expectations. Don’t expect to be able to hear everything perfectly right away. The adjustment process can take a few days to a few weeks, depending on the person. Be patient and give yourself time to adjust.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you’re having difficulty adjusting to your new hearing aids, don’t hesitate to reach out to your hearing care provider. They can provide you with tips and advice to help make the adjustment process easier.
Communicate with Those Around You
Explaining your new hearing aids to others can help them understand why you may need to ask them to repeat themselves or speak more clearly. Ask for their cooperation and patience as you adjust to your new hearing aids. It’s also essential to advocate for yourself and your hearing needs.
Practice Listening and Speaking
Listening and speaking are skills that need to be practiced regularly. Make sure to take time to listen to different sounds and voices, including music, podcasts, and audiobooks. Practice speech and language exercises to help improve your listening and speaking skills. Engage in conversations with friends and family to practice using your new hearing aids in different environments.
Take Care of Your Hearing Aids
Proper care and maintenance of your hearing aids are essential to ensure they function correctly and last a long time. Make sure to clean your hearing aids regularly and store them properly. Schedule regular maintenance and check-ups with your hearing care provider to ensure your hearing aids are functioning correctly.
Adjusting to new hearing aids takes time and patience, but it’s well worth it. Hearing aids can help improve your overall quality of life, and with the right mindset and support, adjusting to them can be a positive experience. Remember to familiarize yourself with your new hearing aids, be patient with the adjustment process, communicate with those around you, practice listening and speaking, and take care of your hearing aids.
If you’re considering hearing treatment, don’t hesitate to reach out to our hearing practice. Our team of experienced hearing care professionals can provide you with the support and resources you need to achieve optimal hearing health. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.