Getting your first pair of hearing aids can feel like a complete routine disruption. Although there’s an adjustment period, establishing a daily routine and following a few helpful tips can make it much easier to get comfortable with your new devices.
Daily Hearing Aid Routine
The first few days and weeks with hearing aids can feel odd. Sounds might seem too loud or unfamiliar. That’s completely normal and will lessen over time. Wearing your devices consistently is the best way to help your brain adjust to the newly amplified sounds. Include the following in your nightly checklist:
- Wipe down your devices with a soft cloth to remove moisture and earwax
- Check the battery or place rechargeable devices on a charger
- Check for clogged microphones or damage to the devices
Tips To Get Used to Your New Devices
New hearing aid users can feel unsure about how their devices will impact their lives. While this is normal, it’s important to remember that your devices are designed to make your life easier, not harder. Try a few of these tips to acclimate to your hearing aids:
- Start small. Don’t head straight to a loud party on day one. Try your hearing aids at the grocery store during off-hours, or while chatting with a friend at Buon Giorno Coffee. This slow introduction helps your ears and brain adjust to the new sounds without getting overwhelmed.
- Don’t worry if you get frustrated. Feeling overwhelmed or even frustrated by the sudden flood of new sounds is normal. Things you never used to notice, like the toilet lid closing or your neighbors laughing, can suddenly seem loud or distracting. That’s okay. Give yourself permission to pause, breathe and let any frustration pass. If it feels like too much, take short breaks from wearing your hearing aids and ease back in when you’re ready.
- Learn your hearing aid settings. Many modern hearing aids have different settings for different types of listening, including music, tinnitus masking, noise cancellation and more. Practice switching between modes at home so it feels like second nature when you’re out.
- Be open about your devices. Don’t hesitate to talk openly about your devices. Share how they help you connect, stay involved and enjoy life. The more you talk about them, the more comfortable and natural they feel.
Approximately 28.8 million U.S. adults could benefit from hearing aids. By establishing a hearing aid routine and gradually acclimating to your devices, you’ll be surprised how fast they become a natural part of your daily life. To learn more about how hearing aids can fit into your life, contact Heard It Through The Grapevine Audiology, PC today for an appointment with one of our specialists.