When someone you care about gets new hearing aids, it’s a big change for them. Hearing aids can help them hear better, but they might take some time to get used to. Here are some tips to help your loved ones adjust to their new hearing aids.
Be Patient and Understanding
Getting used to hearing aids can be a little tricky. Sounds may be too loud or different at first. Your loved one might feel tired from all the new sounds they’re hearing. It’s important to be patient and understanding. Let them know it’s okay to take breaks and rest their ears.
Practice Listening
New hearing aids can make everyday sounds seem different. Spend time with your loved one in different places, like at home, outside, or in a busy store. This helps them get used to different sounds and environments. You can also practice talking to them in quiet and noisy places to help them adjust.
Encourage Consistent Use
Wearing hearing aids every day is the best way for your loved one to get used to them. Encourage them to wear their hearing aids from morning to night. If necessary, start with a few hours each day and slowly increase the time they wear them. This helps their brain adjust to the new sounds.
Celebrate Small Wins
Adjusting to hearing aids takes time and effort. Celebrate the small wins along the way. Maybe they heard the doorbell for the first time in years, or they enjoyed a conversation without asking someone to repeat themselves. These moments are worth celebrating and can encourage your loved one to keep wearing their hearing aids.
Be a Good Listener
Your loved one might have worries or frustrations about their new hearing aids. Be a good listener and let them talk about their feelings. Offer encouragement and remind them that it will get easier with time. Knowing they have your support can make a big difference.
Help with Cleaning and Maintenance
Hearing aids need to be kept clean to work well. Show your loved one how to clean their hearing aids properly. You can use a soft, dry cloth to wipe them. Remind them to change the batteries or recharge them regularly. Helping with these tasks can make wearing hearing aids easier and more comfortable.
Show Them How to Adjust the Settings
Modern hearing aids have different settings for different environments. Learn how to adjust the settings and show your loved one how to do it, too. For example, they might need to turn down the volume in a noisy place or switch to a special setting for watching TV. Knowing how to make these adjustments can make a big difference, especially for older individuals.
Be Supportive During Social Situations
Social situations can be challenging for someone with new hearing aids. They might feel overwhelmed by all the sounds and conversations. Be supportive and stay close to them during gatherings. Help them find a quiet spot if they need a break. Encourage them to let others know they’re adjusting to new hearing aids so everyone can be patient and understanding.
Include Them in Activities
Don’t forget to include your loved one in activities and conversations. Hearing aids can help them participate more fully in life. Whether it’s playing a game, watching a movie, or having dinner together, their hearing aids can help them feel more connected.
Remind Them to Visit the Audiologist
Regular check-ups with the audiologist are important. If the hearing aids don’t feel comfortable or aren’t working well, the audiologist can make adjustments. Encourage your loved one to keep their appointments and share any problems they’re having with their hearing aids.
Audiologists and Hearing Aids in New Albany, IN
Adjusting to hearing aids is a journey that can take some time. Focus on the improvements and the new sounds your loved one can hear. Your support and encouragement can make a big difference.
If you need help with your hearing aids, audiologists can help. Doctors Hearing Care is an audiology and hearing aid clinic with expert audiologists that provides hearing tests and hearing aids in New Albany, IN.