Getting used to a hearing aid takes time. You'll likely notice your listening skills improve gradually as you become accustomed to amplification. Even your own voice sounds different when you wear a hearing aid.
When first using a hearing aid, keep these points in mind:
- Hearing aids won't return your hearing to normal. Hearing aids can't restore normal hearing. They can improve your hearing by amplifying soft sounds.
- Allow time to get used to the hearing aid. It takes time to get used to your new hearing aid. But the more you use it, the more quickly you'll adjust to amplified sounds.
- Practice using the hearing aid in different environments. Your amplified hearing will sound different in different places.
- Seek support and try to stay positive. A willingness to practice and the support of family and friends help determine your success with your new hearing aid. You may also consider joining a support group for people with hearing loss or new to hearing aids.
- Go back for a follow-up. Providers may include the cost of one or more follow-up visits in their fee. It's a good idea to take advantage of this for any adjustments and to ensure your new hearing aid is working for you as well as it can.
Your success with hearing aids will be helped by wearing them regularly and taking good care of them. In addition, an audiologist can tell you about new hearing aids and devices that become available and help you make changes to meet your needs. The goal is that, in time, you find a hearing aid you're comfortable with and that enhances your ability to hear and communicate.