Getting new hearing aids can be a big change for anyone. It might feel strange at first, and sounds may seem different or too loud. If someone you care about just got new hearing aids, there are many ways you can help them adjust and feel comfortable. Here are some simple steps you can take to support them in this journey.
Be Patient and Understanding
Wearing new hearing aids is not always easy. Your loved one might feel frustrated or overwhelmed by all the new sounds they hear. It’s important to be patient with them. Understand that they need time to get used to their hearing aids. Let them talk about how they feel and listen carefully to what they say. Sometimes, just having someone who understands can make a big difference.
Encourage Them to Wear the Hearing Aids Regularly
At first, your loved one might want to take the hearing aids out often. This is normal, but it’s important to encourage them to wear them as much as possible. Wearing hearing aids regularly helps their brain adjust to the new sounds. Start with short periods, like a few hours each day, and gradually increase the time. Over time, they will feel more comfortable.
Help with Adjustments
Sometimes, the hearing aids might need small adjustments to fit better or sound clearer. If your loved one is having trouble, help them contact their audiologist for help. Audiologists at Abilene Audiology can adjust the hearing aids to make them more comfortable. It might take a few visits to get everything just right, and that’s okay!
Practice Listening Together
Your loved one might need some practice to get used to new sounds. You can help by practicing listening together in different situations. Start in a quiet place, like at home, and then try other places with more background noise, like a park or a restaurant. Talk to them and see how they are doing. This can help them build confidence in using their hearing aids in different environments.
Be a Supportive Companion
Being there for your loved one can help them feel more at ease. Offer to go with them to their appointments, whether it’s their first fitting or follow-up visits. This shows them that you care and are there to help. Ask questions and learn about the hearing aids with them. Understanding how the devices work can make it easier to offer help and encouragement.
Celebrate Small Wins
Adjusting to hearing aids is a process with many steps. Celebrate each little success along the way. Maybe they wore their hearing aids for a full day, or they noticed they could hear a bird singing again. Celebrating these small victories can help them feel positive about their progress and keep them motivated.
Be Mindful of Communication
Communication is key to making your loved one feel comfortable. Speak clearly and face them when talking. This can help them read your lips if needed. Avoid speaking too fast, and make sure to reduce background noise when possible. Encourage them to let you know if they need you to repeat something or speak louder. These small changes can make a big difference in helping them feel included and confident.
Help Them Stay Positive
Adjusting to new hearing aids can be challenging, but it’s important to stay positive. Remind your loved one of all the benefits that hearing aids bring, like being able to join conversations again or hear sounds they might have missed before. Encourage them to think about all the new experiences they can enjoy now that they can hear better.
Learn Together
Take some time to learn about hearing loss and hearing aids. This knowledge can help you understand what your loved one is going through. Abilene Audiology offers many resources, including advice and tips for new hearing aid users. Knowing what to expect and how to help can make you a better support for your loved one.
Keep an Open Dialogue
Finally, keep talking with your loved one about how they feel. Ask them what they need and be open to feedback. Sometimes, they might just need someone to listen or to help them adjust their hearing aids. Having open and honest communication will help them feel supported and cared for.
Audiologists and Hearing Aids in Abilene, TX
Helping someone adjust to new hearing aids takes time, patience, and love. With your support, they can feel more comfortable and confident with their hearing aids. Remember, it’s about taking small steps and being there every step of the way. The team at Abilene Audiology is always here to help you and your loved ones on this journey to better hearing.
Schedule an appointment with the best audiologists in Abilene, TX, today!