The experience of acclimating to hearing aids varies widely across patient populations. Some patients are fortunate enough to adjust to their hearing aids quickly and with ease, but many others will require weeks and even months of consistent use before they feel “used to” their hearing aids.
If you have found yourself, or a loved one in the latter group (needing more time to adjust to hearing aids) here are some tips that will help you become more comfortable and confident with your hearing devices.
Consistent Use
The most effective way to become accustomed to your hearing aids is by wearing them consistently. This means wearing your hearing aids all day, from morning until night, regardless of where you are or who you are with.
Wearing your hearing aids stimulates the auditory nerve and allows the brain to practice making use of this new sound. This process re-trains the brain to accept the sounds that you are hearing as normal. Overtime, this consistency leads to improved comprehension of conversational speech and overall comfort with the devices.
There is a common misconception that hearing aids need only to be worn in social situations. This is simply not true. It is imperative that you continue hearing aid use, even when you are by yourself. Environmental sounds in your home are important too and help to provide the auditory stimulation that keeps your brain engaged.
If this feels like an uphill battle, hang in there! Take short breaks from the hearing aids (30-60 minutes) and then try again for a few more hours. Continue to increase wear time until you have mastered all day use.
Start with Simple Listening Environments
While you become familiar with wearing your hearing aids, start wearing them in simple listening environments. This includes one-on-one conversations, watching TV and small social gatherings in quiet settings. As you become more comfortable with the sound, ease into more difficult listening environments including restaurants and larger gatherings.
Offer Support and Encouragement
Understand that getting used to hearing aids can feel frustrating and overwhelming. Offer your loved one support. Encourage and commend their efforts. Remember that acclimating to hearing aids can take weeks to months.
Be Patient
Be patient with yourself and take time to notice the benefits of your hearing aids. Perhaps you are hearing the birds sing, or a small child’s laugh. Maybe you can now hear your cat purr or the storm outside. Notice that listening now requires less effort and that the TV is on a lower volume. Celebrating the small differences will help motivate you toward continued use and illustrate the benefit of your new hearing aids!
