Hearing loss is a natural part of aging for many Americans, being cut out of life is not.  Hearing aids can greatly improve your hearing – and your quality of life – and help you stay engaged in your community and your life. But they do take some getting used to. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you settle into your new hearing life.

#1: There Is An Adjustment Period
It’s estimated that 1 in 8 hearing aids is never used, due to unrealistic expectations of how they will work from the get-go. If you waited for a few years to get hearing aids, then there are some sounds you haven’t heard in a long time. This will take some getting used to. So will the amplified sounds all around you – this means that you will hear sounds differently than you did before your hearing diminished. It can take anywhere from 30-90 days for your brain to adjust to your new hearing aids, but don’t give up. Follow the adjustment period recommended by your audiologist, and get started on your way to better hearing and a more engaged life.

#2: They Are A Little Uncomfortable At First
Like new shoes or new glasses, new hearing aids will take some getting used to. Your audiologist can make adjustments to your hearing aids to make sure the fit is perfect for you, but give yourself time to get used to them. What is a little uncomfortable at first will quickly become normal, and the improved hearing will be worth it.

#3: It’s Too Noisy
Hearing aids amplify the sounds around you, allowing you to hear sounds you missed before. But because you haven’t heard these sounds in a long time, it can seem noisy and overwhelming. Your audiologist will work with you to manage the new sounds – he or she will probably recommend wearing them in quiet environments first, and working up to noisy environments over a few weeks. With a little time, your brain will adjust to the new sounds, and it will all feel normal soon enough.

Work with our experienced audiologists to determine your type and severity of hearing loss, and if necessary, get fitted with the best hearing aids for your needs. They will work with you to ensure that your hearing aids – and how you adjust to them – work best for you.