So you finally went out and bought a new set of hearing aids. Great job taking the first step to enhance your quality of life. There are things you should learn to do and not to do with newer technology like modern hearing aids. It’s not a long list when it comes to hearing aids, but it is a significant one.
It’s not simply about taking care of your hearing aids, either. The device will be less useful and your adjustment time will be slowed by the things you fail to do. Now learn from the mistakes many others in your situation have made; think about these four things you shouldn’t do with those new hearing aids.
1. Putting in Your Hearing Aids Right After You Buy Them
You may be ignoring powerful features if you don’t put in the time to understand the basics of how your hearing aid works and check out the features that come with the brand. Chances are if you simply turn your new device on and start wearing them, they won’t work effectively for you. Bluetooth and noise filters are a few of the best features that you may also miss out on.
You can learn how to get the clearest sound quality and practice the numerous configurations that improve the hearing aid’s function if you simply take your time and read the users manual.
You will already have a general idea of what your hearing aids can do by the time you purchase them. Now, take some time to learn how to use them.
2. Underestimate the Adjustment Factor
Your eyes need to adjust to the shape of the frame and the change in lenses when you get a new pair of glasses. This also goes when it comes to hearing aids. Some new hearing aid owners believe they will immediately enjoy this magical new sound quality. That’s not how it works.
If you’ve never worn hearing aids before, it’s a significant difference and your ears will require some time to adjust. Quick adjustment depends on consistent use.
Leave them in place once you’ve put them in. You should fight the urge to keep taking them out. If you are not comfortable, consider why.
- Is the noise too loud? Maybe you need to turn the volume down.
- Take the hearing aid out when it gets uncomfortable for short intervals. Go back to the seller and have your hearing aids inspected if they don’t seem to fit properly..
- Are you overwhelmed by the background noise? Every day when you first put them in you should go to a quiet place for a few minutes. Sit with a friend and talk. Ask them if you are talking too loud. By doing this, you can balance out the sound by making adjustments.
The biggest mistake you can make is to give up. If you shove your hearing aids in a drawer and forget about them, they will do you no good.
3. Have the Hearing Aid Fitted When You First Get it
Getting the right hearing aids begins before you start actually shopping and there is a lot to it. When you’re at the audiologist, if you are not honest about what you can and what you can’t hear at your Hearing test, that’s an issue. You might wind up with hearing aids that aren’t the correct ones for your level or type of hearing loss. For instance, some hearing aids by design amplify a high-frequency sound. If your hearing loss impedes your ability to hear mid-range or low sounds, the hearing aids won’t work right for you.
In some situations, hearing aids might not seem to fit your lifestyle. Bluetooth technology is a feature that you will need if you use a phone allot.
While you are still in the trial period for your new hearing aids, write down the times where you wished your hearing aids did something different or when it seemed like they didn’t work correctly. Your hearing aid technician can discuss those problems with you if you bring them back. It might just take an adjustment, or perhaps you need a different type of device.
Most retailers do free fittings so be sure to find one of them when you get your hearing aids. They won’t work if they are too big for your ears.
4. Neglected Maintenance
Successful maintenance of your hearing aids starts with knowing how and when to do it. Even if you’ve used hearing aids in the past you need to take the time to understand how to take care of your new device.
When you buy the hearing aids, Take a close look at at the warning signs listed in the user manual like using hair care products with your hearing aids in or failing to turn them off when you take it out.
Don’t forget to study the maintenance guide and troubleshooting instructions.
A big part of taking care of hearing aids is cleaning so be certain that you know how to do it. Don’t stop at just cleaning the device, either. Correctly cleaning your ears is crucial too.
You have to take the initiative if you want to get the most from your hearing aids. It’s an ongoing process from shopping to use. Make an appointment with a hearing care professional to find out what kind of hearing aid will best fit your needs.