An estimated 28.8 million U.S. adults could benefit from hearing aids.[1] Among the many benefits they offer are clearer communication, stronger relationships, increased confidence and greater safety. After you get your first pair of hearing aids, you’ll go through a transition period where you get used to the presence and sound of your devices. During that time, you might find them uncomfortable or even intrusive; that’s completely normal and, luckily, short-term. With time, your devices will feel like second nature.
Let’s look at a few ways you can increase your comfort while you get used to your new hearing aids.
Start in Quiet Environments
Some people find it jarring to suddenly hear all the sounds they’ve been missing for months or years. For example, when you grab a latte from Silk City Coffee, the sound of chatting customers or beans grinding might feel a little loud. Starting in quieter environments like parks, libraries or even your home and gradually building up to louder ones, like restaurants and cafes, will help your ears get used to the new sound.
Watch TV or Listen to Audiobooks
Your favorite TV show or audiobook offers familiar speech that both gets you used to the new sound and retrains your brain to understand it. You can even connect your hearing aids to your phone, laptop, tablet or Bluetooth® TV or TV adapter for direct audio streaming right to your ears.
Take Breaks
If the physical presence of your devices starts to make your ears ache, it’s okay to remove them for a bit. Take a 30-minute break and see how you feel after.
Clean Your Devices
Dirty hearing aids are uncomfortable hearing aids. Clean your devices every evening using their cleaning kit and care manual to keep them comfortable and functioning well.
Know When To Seek Help
We’re here to help with any concerns that arise. If your hearing aids continue to sound off, or they cause significant discomfort or pain, we need to check their fit or settings. Call Sound Advice Audiology today to schedule a service appointment with one of our specialists.
[1] National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders. (2024). Quick statistics about hearing, balance, & dizziness. National Institutes of Health. https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/statistics/quick-statistics-hearing