Getting hearing aids for the first time can be an exciting but also nerve-wracking experience. While the promise of clearer hearing is great, many new users find themselves overwhelmed with concerns about their new devices. These worries are completely normal, and luckily, they have simple solutions. Let’s take a look at four common worries and how you can address them for a better experience.
What If People Notice My Hearing Aids?
One of the most common concerns is how hearing aids will look. Many worry that others will immediately notice your devices and make assumptions about your abilities or see them as a sign of aging. But the reality is that modern hearing aids are designed to be discreet. Some are nearly invisible, sitting snugly inside the ear canal, while others are sleek and blend naturally with hair or skin tone. Plus, wearing hearing aids is nothing to be self-conscious about! They’re a sign that you’re taking control of your hearing health, and that’s always worth celebrating.
What If I Lose Them?
Hearing aids are small, which makes them easy to misplace. It’s a valid worry, but there are simple ways to prevent this:
- Store them in the same place every night
- Use a case when not in use
- Look into hearing aids with tracking features, or attach a small tracking device to their case
- Ask your hearing aid specialist about retention accessories like clips or lanyards
What if They Don’t Work for Me?
Approximately 28.8 million U.S. adults could benefit from hearing aids. Despite their benefits, many new users worry that their new devices won’t be effective enough. At first, things might sound different or even strange. This is normal. Your brain needs time to adjust to the new sounds it’s receiving. The key is consistent hearing aid use. Wearing them daily, even in quiet settings, helps your brain adapt. If the sound still doesn’t feel right after a few weeks, follow up with a hearing aid specialist for programming adjustments.
What If I Damage Them?
Hearing aids are a big investment, so it’s natural to worry about breaking them. Fortunately, they’re built to withstand daily wear, but proper care is essential. Follow these tips for safekeeping:
- Clean them nightly with a wax pick, brush and soft cloth
- Handle them with clean, dry hands
- Keep them dry and away from moisture
- If you spend time at Katy Lake, put your devices in a drying box overnight
Clearer conversations, improved social interactions and a better overall quality of life are just a few of the many benefits hearing aids offer. Don’t wait to embrace clearer hearing. Contact Davies Institute for Speech & Hearing today to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists.