Tips on using hearing aids
It takes a
little practice to get used to wearing hearing aids, but you’ll soon
discover that using your hearing aids is natural and enjoyable.
Here are some tips on using hearing aids.
Speaking with others
Human speech is a complex sound, so you’ll need a little
more practice to begin with. Start by using your hearing
aids at home with someone whose voice you know well.
Remember that communicating combines listening with
concentration and visual clues. Pay attention to facial
expressions and gestures, and you’ll understand more.
Hearing aids, like ears, pick up sound best from the front.
So, place yourself in front of people when they speak. If
you know them well enough, ask them to speak in a normal
tone and without covering their mouth with their hands.
Different environments
As you gain confidence, begin wearing your hearing aids in a
wider variety of environments – like work or social
occasions. Practice selecting specific sounds and voices and
focusing attention on them.
In public places such as a meeting hall, sit as close to the
speaker as possible. In cafes or restaurants, try to sit
with your back to the main source of noise – such as an open
window or a sidewalk.
Radio and television
For best results, you’ll need to find the best distance
between you and the television.
With your new hearing aids on, sit between 6 and 12 feet
away (around 2 to 4 meters) with the TV set to a normal
level for others. Then adjust your distance to the TV and
the volume to find your own comfortable level.
Do the same for the radio. The closer you are and the less
background noise there is, the better the sound you’ll get.
Many hearing aid models now come with wireless accessories which allow you to send the TV signal directly to your hearing aids. Ask your hearing professional about these options.
Telephone
Sometimes your hearing aids will buzz or squeal while you are talking on the phone. You can try simply tilting the phone slightly which can often stop the squeal but still allow you to hear the conversation. Another solution may be using the speakerphone if you phone has this option. A simple phone pad available from your hearing professional may also eliminate the problem of squealing or feedback.
The ultimate solution is a bluetooth linked telephone which
allows you to hear the telephone conversation through both
ears without having to hold the phone to your ear at all so
there is no chance of squealing and the conversation is
normally much clearer because you use both ears to hear on
the phone.
A telecoil – a feature of some hearing aids – can help when
talking on a standard phone. On a cell phone, you could use
hands-free systems that include headsets and volume
controls.
Modern hearing aids will accomodate your needs
Remember that getting used to your hearing aids is part of
the hearing recovery process.
Fortunately, today’s most advanced hearing aids are highly
sensitive to individual needs, both for hearing and comfort.
By following the advice of your hearing care professional,
you’ll soon discover that using your hearing aids is natural
and enjoyable.
