50+: Live Better, Longer

All About Hearing Aids

Adjusting to and Caring for Hearing Aids

It's important to understand that your hearing aid cannot restore hearing as it once was. But with regular use, you will become more aware of sounds and where they are coming from.

When you first get your hearing aids, be patient. It may take some time to get accustomed to them. In most states, you are allowed a trial period after purchase of your hearing aids. Then, if yours doesn't work out for you, you may receive a refund for certain fees and choose a type that works better for you. Also ask about warranty coverage.

Take time to learn how your hearing aids work and insist on a good selection and fit. Work closely with your audiologist to minimize any problems such as:

• Slight discomfort
• Echo-like sounds from your own voice
• Feedback or a whistling sound
• Background noise
• Buzzing with cell phone use

It may help to start wearing your hearing aids in quiet areas and to keep a diary about your experiences.

Your hearing aids will last much longer if you take good care of them. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Keep your hearing aids away from heat, moisture, hair care products, children, and pets.
• Clean the hearing aid as directed.
• Turn off your hearing aids when you are not using them and replace dead batteries right away. Hearing aid batteries may last from several days to a couple of weeks. Battery life depends on the battery type, hearing aid power requirements, and how often the hearing aid is used with assistive listening devices.
• In general, hearing aids have a life expectancy of 3 to 6 years. A new hearing aid may be required sooner if hearing loss is progressive. Behind-the-ear hearing aids have more flexibility since they can be programmed for a wider range of hearing loss.

Because digital hearing aids  are built with computer technology, they get stronger and better every few years as computer technology improves. This often prompts people to upgrade their hearing aids.