If you’re reading this, chances are you or someone you know is a hearing aid user or perhaps you are considering getting a hearing aid and wondering what type of hearing aid to get. Wearing a hearing aid can be a game changer for many! It has the potential to open up a whole new world of sound.

But like anything new, there’s a learning curve when it comes to hearing aid devices. They are not a ‘cure’ for hearing loss.

Here are 5 things every hearing aid user should know:

1. Finding the right fit is key. It’s important to work closely with your audiologist to find the right hearing aid type for your ear shape and hearing loss. A poorly fitting hearing aid can be uncomfortable and/or may not provide the best sound quality.
   
   
2. Regular maintenance is essential. Hearing aids require regular cleaning and maintenance to ensure they continue to work properly. This may include regular check-ups with your audiologist, as well as cleaning and changing batteries on a regular basis.
   
   
3. It may take time to adjust. Wearing any hearing aid is a big change, and it may take some time to get used to it. Be patient and give yourself time to adjust to the new sounds around you. It may also be helpful to attend a hearing aid orientation class to learn how to use and care for your hearing aid and your audiologist should be able to advise. Personally, I know I have an ‘adjustment period’ whenever mine are updated with my latest hearing tests. Patience is important and if you still can’t get on with them, don’t be afraid to revisit your audiologist to discuss some alterations.
   
   
4. Communication is key. If you’re having trouble hearing someone, don’t be afraid to let them know – no need to be apologetic! It may be helpful to let them know you need some assistance; for example, ask them to face you when they speak, speak slowly and clearly, and avoid noisy environments when possible.
   
   
5. Technology is constantly evolving. Hearing aid technology is constantly improving, with new features and advancements being developed all the time. Be sure to stay up to date with the latest developments and talk to your audiologist about any new technology that may be beneficial for you.
   

There are many other points I could cover, depending on the hearing loss or the hearing aid type you may be looking at, but overall wearing a hearing aid can be hugely beneficial to many people, but it’s important to know how to properly care for and use your hearing aid. By following these tips, you can ensure that your hearing aid continues to provide you with the best possible sound quality. 

If you’ve had a hearing test already, you can learn what your audiogram mean for you here: What does my audiogram mean?

We have many people in our community who wear different devices and some who don’t wear any at all due to having no residual hearing. It’s a great place to discover, discuss and learn about all the different ways we cope!