6 Ways to Get Used to Hearing Aids

If you have just been prescribed hearing aids, it can be a daunting experience. Having to wear something in your ears all day long can be quite off-putting. However, with a little bit of practice and some helpful tips from your audiologist, you will soon get used to hearing aids and learn to love their benefits. In this article, we will discuss six ways to help yourself get used to hearing aids. Let's get started!

1. Start by Having a Conversation with Just One Person

If you are anxious about wearing hearing aids, start by conversing with just one person. This can be a friend, family member or even your audiologist. The goal is to get used to hearing the sound of your voice with hearing aids. This will help you feel more comfortable when you are out in public and talking to people.

If you have trouble hearing someone with hearing aids, try asking them to face you when they talk and speak slowly and clearly. It is also helpful to ask them to repeat themselves if necessary. Most people understand that it can be difficult to adjust to hearing aids and are happy to help.

Once you feel comfortable talking with one person, gradually add more people to the mix. Eventually, you will be able to have conversations with large groups of people without feeling self-conscious about your hearing aids.

One thing to remember is that hearing aids do not restore hearing to normal levels. You will still need to lip-read and use other cues when talking to people. However, hearing aids will make it easier to follow conversations and pick up on important sounds.

2. Practice Wearing Your Hearing Aids in Nature

One of the best ways to get used to hearing aids is to practice wearing them in nature. Hearing birds chirping, leaves rustling and water flowing can be very soothing. It can also help you get used to hearing a wide range of frequencies with your hearing aids.

If you are having trouble understanding what people are saying, try walking in a quiet park or forest. The added background noise will help you filter speech and focus on individual words. You may also want to try listening to music with your hearing aids. This can be a great way to relax and adjust to the new soundscape that hearing aids provide.

3. Wear Your Hearing Aids for Short Periods of Time

Some people find it helpful to wear their hearing aids for short periods at first. This can help you get used to the feeling of having something in your ears and hearing amplified sounds.

You can start by wearing your hearing aids for just an hour or two a day. Then, gradually increase the amount of time you wear them each day. Eventually, you will be able to wear them all day long without any problems.

4. Watch Television Wearing Your Hearing Aids

Another great way to get used to hearing aids is to watch television while wearing them. This will help you get used to hearing different sounds and voices.

Start by watching shows that you are familiar with. This will help you follow the plot and understand what is going on. You may also want to try watching movies with subtitles to read along and better understand the dialogue.

5. Try Your Hearing Aids in a Noisy Place

If you have trouble hearing in noisy places, try wearing your hearing aids in a noisy place. This will help you get used to hearing background noise and picking out individual sounds.

Some good places to try this include the grocery store, a restaurant or even a busy street corner. Make sure you are comfortable with the noise level before you put your hearing aids in. You may also want to ask someone to go with you so that they can help you if you need it.

6. Attend Hearing Aid Classes and Support Groups

Hearing aid classes and support groups are often available through local hospitals or community centers. These can be a great resource for getting used to hearing aids.

At a hearing aid class, you will usually learn how to put in and take out your hearing aids, care for them and adjust the volume. You may also be able to try out different types of hearing aids to see which ones work best for you.

Support groups provide a place for you to share your experiences with other people who are going through the same thing. This can be a great way to get advice and support from people who understand what you are going through.

Talk to your audiologist if you have trouble adjusting to hearing aids. They can help you find the necessary resources to make the transition easier. With a little time and effort, you will be able to get used to your hearing aids and enjoy all the benefits they have to offer. To learn more about Advanced Hearing Services, contact us today at (970) 449-0592.