Finally, you got some hearing aids. Taking the first step to better your Quality of life is a great accomplishment. There is a good deal to learn when you buy new technology such as modern hearing aids, and that includes the things you shouldn’t do. It’s not a long list when it comes to hearing aids, but it is a significant one.
There are other considerations besides simply taking care of your hearing. Your adjustment time will be delayed by the things you fail to do and your device will be less effective. Others in your shoes have made mistakes that you can learn from. These four things that you shouldn’t do need to be taken into consideration.
1. Putting in Your Hearing Aids Right After You Buy Them
You might be disregarding powerful features if you don’t take the time to learn the basics of how your hearing aid functions and explore the features that come with the brand. If you simply turn on your hearing aids and start wearing them, it’s likely they won’t work effectively. Bluetooth and noise filters are some of the best features that you may also overlook.
In contrast, if you slow it down a bit and read the documentation that came with the device, you can learn how to attain the cleanest sound quality and practice the various configurations that maximize the hearing aid’s function.
You will already have a basic understanding of what your hearing aids can do when you purchase them. It will take a bit more time but you need to learn how to use them properly.
2. It Takes Time For Your Ears to Adjust
Your eyes need to adapt to the shape of the frame and the change in lenses when you get new glasses. The same is true for hearing aids. High quality sound in a new hearing aid does not happen by magic. It doesn’t work that way.
If you’ve never worn hearing aids before, it’s a significant change and your ears will require some time to adapt. Adjusting to your new hearing aids quickly is all about consistency.
Leave them in your ear once you’ve put them in. At first, you may need to fight the need to take them out every few minutes. If you are not comfortable, consider why.
- Until you get used to it, take the hearing aid out when it gets uncomfortable. If the hearing aids just don’t really fit right, go back to the retailer and have them inspected.
- Is the sound too loud? Perhaps you need to turn down the volume.
- Does the background noise seem overwhelming? Go to a quiet place for a few minutes when you first put them in each day. Sit down and talk with a friend. Ask if you are talking too loud. By doing this, you can balance out the sound by making adjustments.
The most substantial mistake you can make is giving up. If you forget about your hearing aids, leaving them in a drawer somewhere, they won’t do you any good.
3. Neglect Getting a Professional Fitting Upfront
There is a lot involved in finding the proper hearing aids, and it begins before you even start looking. During your hearing exam at the audiologist, it’s important to tell the truth about what you can and can’t hear. Hearing aids that aren’t The right ones for your type or level of hearing loss can be the result. For example, some hearing aids by design amplify a high-frequency sound. These are not the ideal hearing aids for you if you can’t hear mid or low tones.
In some cases, hearing aids may not seem to fit your lifestyle. Perhaps you spend two-thirds of your day talking on the phone, so you will need to get hearing aids that have Bluetooth technology.
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 function correctly. You can go back and talk about those concerns with your hearing aid technician. You might need a different type of device or you might just need an adjustment.
Most retailers do free fittings so makes sure to find one of them when you purchase your hearing aids. If they’re too big for your ears they won’t function properly.
4. Neglected Maintenance
Knowing when and how to Take care of your hearing aids are the keys to success. Even if you’ve had hearing aids before you should take the time to understand how to care for your new device.
There are some things you shouldn’t do with your hearing aids in such as using hair products with them in or taking them out without turning them off so consult your documentation.
Additionally, study the troubleshooting instructions and the maintenance guide.
A big part of caring for hearing aids is cleaning so be sure that you know how to do it. The hearing aid is not the only thing that needs to be cleaned. You also have to correctly clean your ears.
If you want to get the most out of your hearing aids, it’s up to you. It’s a continuing process from shopping to use. Make an appointment with a hearing care professional to find out what type of hearing aid will best fit your needs.