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Putting in new hearing aids isn’t the same as putting on a pair of glasses; rather than simply being able to hear like you once did, you’ll have to get used to what it’s like to hear all the sounds around you. It makes sense, since your ears have gotten used to missing certain sounds, and your brain needs time to re-learn which sounds are important and what to filter out.
Below we provide tips for how to get used to your new hearing aids.
Wear Your Hearing Aids at Home
It’s easiest to start by wearing your hearing aids in quiet environments, like your home or Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library. When you’re home alone, you can practice listening exercises like trying to locate the sources of all the sounds you can hear, such as the hum of the refrigerator or traffic sounds coming through the window.
Get Used to Your Own Voice
It’s often the case that your own voice takes the most getting used to. If you don’t have someone home with you to practice conversing with, we recommend reading aloud or talking to a pet to help you acclimate.
Take Breaks
It will probably be difficult to keep your hearing aids in all day long at first. We recommend wearing your hearing aids for just a couple hours a day, gradually increasing each day. If you feel like you need to take a break, go ahead and do so.
Attend Follow-Up Visits
You may find that at first certain sounds are still difficult to hear while others may be uncomfortably loud. This can be addressed during follow-up appointments. Be sure to communicate any troubles you’re having with your audiologist so they can adjust the programming.
Anticipate Frustration
It’s common to feel frustrated with the rehabilitation process. It’s important to remember that all good things take time and patience and that if you commit to the process you’ll soon be hearing well and hearing comfortably.
Ask Loved Ones for Support
Remember, you’re not in this alone. Your loved ones are there to support you. Be sure to communicate if you need someone to speak up, if you could use a listening ear or if you want someone to attend your appointments with you.
For more information about the hearing rehabilitation process or to schedule an appointment, call Topeka ENT today.