Getting used to your hearing aid

You need time to get used to wearing a hearing aid. You may find that your listening skills improve little by little as you get used to sounds being louder. Even your own voice may sound different when you wear a hearing aid.

When first using a hearing aid, keep these points in mind:

• Hearing aids won't restore all your hearing. They can help you hear by making soft sounds louder.
• Give yourself the time you need to get used to the hearing aid. The more you use it, the more quickly you'll adjust to amplified sounds.
• Practice using the hearing aid in different places. Your amplified hearing will sound different in different places. Learn to adjust the volume in different settings.
• Go back for a follow-up. Audiologists may include the cost of one or more follow-up visits in their fees. It's a good idea to use these visits. You can get your hearing aid adjusted and make sure that your new hearing aid is working for you as well as it can.

To do well with hearing aids, wear them often and take good care of them. An audiologist can tell you about new hearing aids and devices that come on the market.

An audiologist also can help you make changes to meet your needs. The goal is that, in time, you find a hearing aid that works best for you to hear and talk with others better.