When you get hearing aids, you have to adjust to a new way of hearing the world around you. This can be a trial-and-error process. Thankfully, there are ways to avoid many of the common mistakes first-time hearing aid owners make.
Not Communicating Hearing Needs to Your Audiologist
Your audiologist is there to help you maximize your hearing capabilities with custom hearing aids that meet your individual needs. However, in order to do that they need to know exactly what issues you are experiencing.
Don’t try to guess correctly during your hearing test or say that the fit feels great when really, it’s uncomfortable. By addressing issues you’re having early on, it will make using hearing aids easier moving forward.
Being Impatient with Your Hearing Aids
Research shows the benefits of hearing aids improve over the first 10 weeks of use. However, if you assume that they you will experience perfect hearing the moment you put on your device, you’ll likely be disappointed.
The reality is that your ears and your brain need some time to adjust to this new way you process sound. In order to reduce your frustration:
- Start slow and wear your device consistently.
- Â Go over the user manual so you understand how various features work.
- Have a conversation with a friend in a quiet environment before attempting nosier places like a busy restaurant.
Take note of any issues that arise and let your audiologist know if they continue after several weeks.
Failing to Properly Clean Hearing Aids
Your hearing aids won’t do you much good if they aren’t working well. It’s important to develop a nightly cleaning routine to rid them of excess moisture, earwax buildup and other debris that could impair their ability to function.
- Wipe your hearing aids down before you go to bed with a soft dry cloth or invest in a hearing aid cleaning kit.
- Store your device in a cool, dry place while you sleep.
- Remember to take your hearing aids in for regular checkups with your hearing specialist every six months to a year.
Waiting Too Long to Get a Hearing Test
Unfortunately, one of the most common mistakes hearing aid users make is not treating their hearing loss sooner. Hearing loss is a progressive condition. The longer you wait to treat it, the more your hearing health suffers.
If you are concerned about your hearing, don’t delay. Schedule an appointment for a hearing test today.
