If you’re new to wearing hearing aids, you may experience a period of normal things sounding different, but you’ll be able to hear new sounds you couldn’t due to hearing loss. Wearing hearing aids is definitely worth it if you or someone you love needs them. Below are some tips to help you get used to wearing hearing aids in Omaha, NE!

Know that your voice may sound different to you

When you first start wearing hearing aids, you may think your voice sounds different, like an echo, answering machine or recorded message. Your voice, as well as your chewing and swallowing, might sound louder. This can be irritating at first, but as you get used to wearing your hearing aids, the sounds will dissipate. If they don’t, be sure to ask your audiologist as your hearing aids may need to be adjusted.

Slowly build up the amount of time you wear them

Start by using your hearing aids for a couple of hours once or twice a day in quieter settings. Once they begin to feel more comfortable, you can start wearing them all day. Always take them off while showering and when sleeping. The more time you wear your hearing aids, the more you will get used to them.

Listen to everyday noises

It can take some time to get used to the new way everyday things sound. The sound of your fridge making ice cubes, your front door opening and closing, etc. It’s common for your brain to have adjusted to your hearing loss, and when you’re wearing hearing aids your brain has to readjust to the sounds.

Use them while watching TV

If you wear your hearing aids while watching TV, you will better be able to adjust to hearing different sounds. You should also watch the TV at different sound levels to compare how it normally sounded at a higher volume, to how much better it sounds now at a lower level.

Begin having a conversation with one person, then with groups

You may get overwhelmed if you jump right into conversations with lots of people. Start with talking to one person at a time, then gradually increase the number of people you’re talking to. Start out in a quiet environment and face each other so you can use lipreading, too. You can also let the other person know you’re getting used to wearing hearing aids to ensure they’re understanding. Soon you will find it’s easier to follow conversations with multiple people.

Practice using them outside

You may be able to better hear outside noises such as birds chirping and traffic sounds. It’s always good to stop and appreciate the small things like an owl hooting, a frog ribbiting in a pond and a bumblebee buzzing above flowers. Hearing aids can help you hear little things better.

Try using them somewhere busy

Loud environments like shopping malls, restaurants and construction sites can make hearing more difficult. The more you get used to your new hearing aids, the better you can keep up with conversations in noisy environments.

Visit us for hearing aids in Omaha, NE

If you or a loved one are experiencing hearing loss, hearing aids in Omaha, NE, may be a good idea for you. At Active Hearing Health, we specialize in finding your unique communication challenges and coming up with a treatment plan that meets your needs and is within your budget. Contact us today to discuss more!