Adapting to New Hearing Aids: What to Expect
For many, the initial experience of wearing hearing aids may feel both exciting and a bit overwhelming. So, what should you expect in those first 30 days? In this blog, we’ll guide you through this transition, sharing practical tips and insights to help make your journey with hearing aids smoother and more comfortable.
Imagine stepping into a world where every sound—your loved one’s voice, birds chirping, the gentle rustle of leaves—comes alive with newfound clarity. That’s the promise of hearing aids.
What are hearing aids?
Hearing aids are small electronic devices designed to enhance sounds for individuals with hearing loss, using prescribed amplification. This means the device is programmed or adjusted according to a person’s specific hearing loss, as identified by a Hearing Care Professional. This customization is based on a detailed hearing test, which identifies the frequencies and sound levels a person has trouble hearing.
With prescribed amplification, the hearing aids are calibrated to provide just the right amount of sound amplification at specific frequencies to match the wearer’s unique hearing needs. This approach enhances sound clarity while minimizing discomfort or distortion, making sounds more natural and speech easier to understand.
These devices are placed in or behind your ear, and consist of a microphone, amplifier, and speaker working together to make sounds louder and clearer.
Notably, a 2022 report indicated that there were approximately 144,990 deaf and 1,449,000 hard-of-hearing individuals in Ontario, with these numbers likely having increased since then.
The data above indicates that the importance of hearing aid comfort cannot be overstated. Hearing aids are essential tools for maintaining communication and quality of life. Are you ready to discover how these devices can transform your life?
Your First 30 Days With Hearing Aids
In the first month of wearing hearing aids, you will likely experience several adjustments as you adapt to the new norm.
Below, we discuss all the essential details that first-time hearing aid users need to know, to help you integrate these devices into your daily life.
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Sound quality: Adapting to new sounds
When you start using hearing aids, sounds may seem different. Initially, the sound quality might feel high-pitched, sharper, or very different from what you are used to, which is usually because your brain is readjusting to sounds it hasn’t heard clearly in a very long time.
While this new clarity can be exciting, it may also feel overwhelming in noisier places, like public spaces. Fortunately, hearing aids can be adjusted to match your unique hearing needs. Achieving a balance of clarity and comfort may require a few sound or physical tweaks.
There are steps you can take to ease into the adjustment process too. You can start by wearing your hearing aids in quieter settings, gradually exposing yourself to a range of sound levels. This paced approach helps you acclimate comfortably to your new listening experience. Adjusting the volume as needed, especially in the beginning stages, can also support a smoother transition.
The best hearing aid tips recommend users start with short sessions and increase wear time daily. Over time, your brain will become more accustomed and learn to filter out unnecessary noise and amplify sounds that will start to feel more natural.
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Comfort: Wearing hearing aids for the first time
First-time hearing aid users often describe the experience as stepping into a new world; while exciting, it also feels strange at the same time.
It is normal to feel a slight pressure in your ear, like to wearing earplugs, but do not fret, as this is natural. Your ears are simply getting used to the sensation of having tiny yet powerful devices in place.
If you notice any discomfort, such as a pinch or something to indicate they don’t sit right, don’t hesitate to contact your Hearing Care Provider for evaluation and further fine-tuning. As days pass, you will barely notice them, and soon enough, they will feel as natural as wearing glasses or a watch.
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Adapting and adjusting to your hearing aids: What to expect
The adjustment period for hearing aids is usually between a few weeks to a couple of months. As mentioned earlier, constant usage may be daunting since everything may sound louder or even strange, as your brain learns to interpret sounds in this “new normal.”
To ensure a smooth adjustment phase and enjoy hearing aid comfort, daily usage is essential.
The real secret to swift adaptation is exposure to different sound environments. It doesn’t matter whether it’s the bustling noise of the streets and car honks to the quiet hum of your living room.
How to Maintain Your Hearing Aids
Think of your hearing aids like tiny lifelines to the world of sound. Keeping them in great condition often results in clear audio when you need it the most, hence why a little daily care goes a long way.
Always start with a gentle cleaning technique, which includes wiping your hearing aid with a soft dry cloth to clean dirt and debris. Be mindful of earwax buildup around the earpiece, as it can affect the sound quality, and ensure to store them in a dry place to avoid moisture.
Remember, if you treat your hearing aids with care, they will definitely return the favour, offering years of dependability and quality sounds.
Take Advantage of Technology-Powered Hearing Aids
Modern hearing aids aren’t just about amplifying sound; they are packed with smart features that make your life easier and more enjoyable.
Take Bluetooth connectivity, for example, which allows you to stream music, podcasts, or even phone calls straight to your hearing aids. Imagine watching your favourite show with clear audio piped directly to your ears!
And that’s not all. With apps designed specifically for your device, you can fine-tune the volume or switch between sound environments at the touch of a button. These features transform hearing aids from mere medical devices into personalized tools that improve every aspect of your life.
Why settle for ordinary when you can easily enjoy the full potential of hearing aid comfort powered by technology?
How to Troubleshoot Common Issues
While you are adapting to hearing aids, you may likely encounter issues. The good news is that this is normal.
For instance, feedback and whistling is a common problem caused by earwax buildup or a loose fit, which can always be solved by regularly cleaning routines and fit adjustments.
Similarly, if you experience discomfort, either physical or sound-related, ensure to immediately call or visit your hearing aids provider for further fine-tuning to avoid complications.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Hearing Aid
While the journey towards adapting to hearing aids is exciting, having an expert by your side makes all the difference.
Hearing specialists not only understands your specific hearing needs, but also help to craft solutions through a long list of options for you to find the perfect fit. In Ontario, Hearing Solutions is your go-to partner for your personalized hearing aid comfort experience.
As an independent provider, we offer a fresh perspective, free from ties to any particular manufacturer. This means that you get advice and access to a wide array of hearing aids designed to meet your unique needs.
From in-depth hearing tests to custom fittings, 90-day satisfaction guarantee, and flexible 0% financing program, our services are crafted to make your transition as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
We also provide support for various insurance programs like ADP, VAC, and WSIB, thus making sure affordability is within reach.
Embrace Better Hearing: Your Next Step
Adapting to hearing aids is a necessary step towards improving your hearing and overall quality of life. Similarly, ensuring that they are properly maintained is also important for long-term success.
Ready to purchase a hearing aid, but need personal support throughout the adoption process? Your next step is contacting Hearing Solutions, a top independent hearing aid provider in Ontario.
For more inquiries, you can call us at 1-888-811-9799 or book an appointment to start hearing what matters in life.
