How to Use Hearing Aids

The journey towards wearing a hearing aid is both emotional and practical. You may need to come to terms with the loss of your hearing, and also learn about the technology and functionality of your new device. It can be a lot to take in but there is good news too. 

The good news is that your audiologist will be there to support you all the way, and when you are comfortable with your new device, your hearing will be better than ever. It just takes some time to familiarize yourself with the new device and the way it works. 

Get used to your new device 

Wearing a hearing aid device for the first time can be a disconcerting experience. You not only need to get used to wearing the device, but you also need to learn how to navigate the world with an enhanced sense of perception. This is one reason you need to take time getting used to your device. 

Practice putting the device on and taking it off. You want to be able to do this as second nature since it will comprise a large part of your new lifestyle. Also take time to adjust to your environment. You will have an enhanced sense of hearing so you might want to go to public space and engage in practice conversations. 

Earmolds 

When it comes to hearing aids, comfort is a very high priority. A hearing aid is something you wear continually, unless sleeping or bathing it's therefore vital you have a comfortable earpiece. Check the fit of your hearing device earpiece. Test it over a few days and if it feels uncomfortable, contact your audiologist. 

If your hearing aid device does not fit properly, discomfort may only be the first of your concerns. An ill-fitting device can also cause the hearing aid to squeal, both in your ear and in your social space. This threatens not only to damage your inner ear but aggravate the people around you. You definitely want to have properly fitted hearing aids.

Putting in your hearing aid 

Getting used to wearing your hearing aid is not the only thing you should consider when you first receive your device. You need to practice putting the device on and taking it off. Depending on the device you have and your ear shape this can be more or less difficult.  

Begin by consulting your audiologist who will show you how the device works. You will also get a chance to practice fitting the device in their presence. The real test, however, will be later that evening when you go to take it out then fit it again in the morning. If it feels uncomfortable, double check it's fitted correctly by following the instructions. 

How to control your device 

Hearing aid devices vary greatly these days, and the controls are diverse. However, there are some features common to all of them that you can learn about prior to receiving your device. When not in use your hearing aid should be switched off to conserve the battery. There is normally a switch marked OTM or O for Off. 

One of the most important controls on a hearing aid is the volume and every device will have a volume control. The up direction increases the volume, and the down direction decreases it. Some of the newer models have automatic volume controls that are programmed by computer. There may also be additional sound enhancement features controls on newer devices. 

Care and maintenance 

Hearing aids require special batteries which is one reason to practice preserving the battery on your device. When you require a new battery it's best to contact your audiologist who can order one for you. These batteries are normally free of charge. To maintain the battery life on your device don't leave the battery in the hearing aid or expose it to extreme temperatures. 

The battery isn't the only part of the device you need to pay attention to regularly. The earpiece may get clogged up due to everyday use and must be cleaned for optimal performance. Follow the cleaning instructions on your device and ensure you maintain it regularly. 

Contacting an audiologist 

As with most hearing device maintenance and usage queries it's recommended that you contact your audiologist when you have a question. Your audiologist is the best person to consult as they know your hearing issue and the type of device you use. To learn more about Armand's Hearing Center contact us at Bradenton: (941) 357-2054 and Sun City: (813) 990-0335.