How To Get The Best From Your Hearing Aid
Getting the best out of your hearing aids will be vital to its performance, and for gifting you with the best possible listening experience. In this blog post, we highlight and expand upon a number of ways in which you can get the best from your hearing aid.
How Can I Get The Best From My Hearing Aids?
For the ultimate listening experience from your hearing aid, there is a number of key aspects to consider. First of all, hearing aids will differ from make to model, and with varying levels of hearing loss, getting the best performance may require some tinkering. However certain aspects of a hearing aid have more control so you get the best out of your device. Which are the best hearing aids?
Do You Wear The Right Hearing Aid?
First of all, you should ensure that your hearing aids suit you and your hearing impairment. Many people are tempted to buy a device that appeals to them most from a cosmetic point of view or offers the latest modern features and technological trends. In an ideal world, you should pick a device that has the most fundamental features you need. Your audiologist will be able to consult with you on the best options that are appropriate for your particular hearing impairment and way of life. They are also able to provide you with important information concerning what to expect from a practical perspective and how the digital hearing aid works and amplifies sounds.
Wearing Hearing Aids For The First Time
In the beginning, especially if you are about to wear a hearing aid for the first time, you should be aware that it may take a while to get used to it and to learn how to make the most of its specific functions and characteristics. Also, you should share a similar outlook when wearing any new device for the first few days. You should not expect to be able to wear your hearing aid throughout the whole day right away.
Usually, it takes a few weeks to fully adjust to the device. As a start, you should spend some time practicing putting the device in and out, until you feel confident you can manage it easily and safely. The instruction manual that comes with the hearing aid needs to be read carefully, as it provides detailed information about its settings that will help you set up the device properly for use in different types of environments.
During the first few days, it is better to wear the hearing aid only at home and while having a conversation with people you are familiar with and then gradually learn to experience the sounds of the outside world. Patience and practice is key to getting the best from your device. This way you can learn the capabilities of your new digital friend.
If you are experiencing difficulties and discomfort or endure constant feedback, do not hesitate to look for professional advice and assistance.
Hearing Aid Life
The lifespan of your hearing aid can be an indicator of performance. For example, the older the device gets, the more you may have to ask yourself: do I need a new hearing aid? An older hearing aid may not work as well as a newer device, and as newer features are constantly emerging, you may actually miss out on a better listening experience.
The normal technical life of a hearing aid is between 3 to 5 years. It is possible for the device to function successfully even for a longer period of time if it is handled with care and according to the instructions provided for the specific model. It is highly likely you will go through several devices during your lifetime. Exploring the market may help you identify hearing aids that you are better suited to.
Hearing Aid Maintenance & Storage
Every hearing aid user should learn how to properly maintain and store their device.
One of the most common problems with hearing aids is the negative impact of moisture and earwax. It is advisable to clean the hearing aid regularly according to the instructions in the manual and place it in a dry & store device during the night.
The batteries should also be removed when the hearing aid is not used for a long period of time. It is highly advisable to carry an additional set of fresh batteries with you.
You should also maintain strict ear hygiene and protect the hearing aid from dirt, makeup, hairspray or other body care products. It is good to perform a yearly test on the device in order to check if it is functioning properly or needs repair or replacement. Our ear hygiene items could be useful to you.
Powering Your Hearing Aid
How you power your device could impact performance. The hearing aid batteries you place in your hearing aid are the heart of you hearing the sounds you love to enjoy, so its best to get this bit right. Choosing hearing aid batteries is very much down to personal preference. You may prefer a specific brand or type such as rechargeable hearing aids. As plenty of battery manufacturers exist, it is about finding the best batteries that suit you and your device. You may be interested in our blog posts:- How Long Do Hearing Aid Batteries Last?
- Hearing Aid Battery Reviews
- Which Hearing Aid Batteries Are Best?
About Hearing Direct
We are one of the world's leading hearing aid specialists, offering a wide range of affordable products, as well as information resources to help improve the quality of life for the hard of hearing. We sell:- Hearing aids,
- Hearing aid batteries,
- Hearing aid accessories such as earplugs,
- and amplified devices such as super loud alarm clocks and amplified phones.