Nearly half of adults over 75 have trouble hearing. Despite how common hearing loss is, many people delay seeking treatment. Some try to manage it on their own, while others struggle to accept their condition and avoid addressing it altogether.
If you’ve avoided seeking treatment in the past but have recently decided to take the leap into hearing aids, give yourself a pat on the back! Hearing aids offer you the chance to take charge of your life. These tiny devices help you communicate with loved ones and enjoy previously out-of-reach sounds like the laughter of your grandchildren or the cheerful tweets of birds at Brahan Spring Park.
Let’s explore how you can make the transition into treatment as smooth as possible.
Starting Your Journey
Hearing aids are incredible devices, but it’s important to know they won’t instantly feel natural. Your brain needs time to adjust to processing sounds you haven’t heard in a while. Be patient with yourself, and follow these steps for a smoother transition:
- Ease into it. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed by the newly amplified sounds hearing aids provide. Give yourself permission to take small breaks when you need them.
- Celebrate your victories. Hearing your loved ones clearly or watching your favorite movie without subtitles may seem like small victories, but they’re worth celebrating. Take a minute to congratulate yourself for taking the leap into treatment.
Adjusting Emotionally
Adjusting to hearing aids is an exciting journey that can bring a mix of emotions, including happiness, hope, curiosity and even a little uncertainty. Embrace these feelings as part of your hearing journey and remember that you don’t have to navigate them alone. Share your experience with loved ones or seek support from a mental health professional if you need extra guidance.
Establishing a Routine
Caring for your hearing aids ensures they’re ready to bring you clear communication for years. Here are a few maintenance tips:
- Daily cleaning. Gently wipe your hearing aids with a soft, dry cloth and use a wax pick to remove wax and debris.
- Battery care. If your devices use disposable batteries, keep spares on hand. For rechargeable models, charge them nightly.
- Regular check-ups. Schedule visits with your audiologist to fine-tune your settings, get professional cleanings and address any concerns.
When you start with realistic expectations and a little patience, you’ll be amazed at how much hearing aids can improve your life. Contact North Alabama ENT Associates for more information on your hearing aid journey.