Hearing loss gets more common as we age, with nearly half of people over 75 affected. Age-related hearing loss, or presbycusis, arises from changes to the middle ear and the nerve pathways from the ear to the brain. Presbycusis has no known cure, but hearing aids can significantly minimize its impact.
While hearing aids offer a remarkable way to reconnect with loved ones and the world around you, adjusting to them can feel like a big step. Let’s look at a few ways to ensure a smooth transition into your new devices.
Start Small and Build Up
A few ways you can gradually ease into your new hearing aids include:
- Wear your hearing aids for just a few hours at first
- Gradually increase the time as you grow more comfortable
- Begin in quiet environments to adjust to the way sounds are processed
- Revisit everyday joys like talking with family or watching your favorite shows
- Once you feel ready, try busier settings like dinner at The Hat, social gatherings or street fairs
- Pay attention to how different environments affect your hearing and adjust the settings in your devices as needed
Remember, everyone’s adjustment period is different. It’s perfectly fine if your hearing aids don’t feel “natural” immediately.
Keeping Your Hearing Aids in Top Shape
Maintenance is an essential part of your hearing aid journey. Include these steps in your routine:
- Remove dirt and debris with a soft cloth and wax pick
- Keep spare batteries on hand or ensure rechargeable devices are charged
- Schedule follow-ups with your audiologist to fine-tune settings, deep clean and address concerns
Proper care ensures your devices function at their best when you need them most.
Embrace the Journey
It’s natural to feel overwhelmed at first. New sounds and routines can take time to adjust to. If things ever feel like too much, try the following:
- Take short breaks to reset
- Progress at a pace that feels right for you
- Celebrate every small victory, like hearing your grandchildren clearly or enjoying your favorite movie
If you’re ready to take the next step, contact Decibel Hearing Services today to discuss hearing aids with one of our specialists.