Adjusting to hearing aids can be a transition. For many, the journey involves emotional and physical changes, including new sounds, and building confidence in conversations. If someone you care about recently started using hearing aids, your support can make a big difference in their experience.
Nearly 28.8 million Americans could benefit from using hearing aids, but many don’t because they may not know they have support.
Understand the Adjustment Period
Hearing aids don’t instantly fix hearing loss. Instead, they amplify sound in a way that the brain must learn to process again. This can take time and patience while the user gets used to the changes.
During this period, your loved one might:
- Feel overwhelmed by background noises at home
- Experience fatigue from concentrating on sounds
- Be unsure how to operate or care for the devices
- Need to return for adjustments or follow-up appointments
Understanding these challenges can help you offer empathy, encouragement and support at their appointments.
Communicate Clearly and Kindly
Good communication habits can help make conversations more comfortable for someone adapting to hearing aids.
Try the following tips:
- Speak clearly and at a natural pace; don’t shout
- Get their attention before talking, especially in noisy places like Scout Coffee Co.
- Face them so they can see your facial expressions and lip movements
- Be patient if they ask you to repeat something
- Choose quieter settings for important conversations
These small actions show support and help ease communication during the transition period.
Be Involved and Encouraging
Your involvement can help boost your loved one’s confidence and comfort level with their hearing aids.
Here’s how you can help:
- Attend appointments with their hearing specialist
- Learn how their hearing aids work and how to troubleshoot basic issues
- Encourage them to wear their hearing aids daily for best results
A positive attitude from you can help them feel proud and motivated to stick with their hearing journey.
Stay Educated
The more you understand about hearing loss and hearing aids, the more helpful you can be.
Consider:
- Reading about shared experiences with hearing aid use
- Asking questions when appropriate to learn what your loved one is going through
- Learning basic care and maintenance tips
- Understanding that hearing aids do not restore hearing to “normal,” they can significantly improve communication.
Some people embrace hearing aids quickly, while others may take longer to feel comfortable wearing them. Everyone’s experience is different. Creating a supportive environment helps reduce pressure and allows them to build confidence at their speed.
To learn more about hearing aids and schedule a hearing test for you or a loved one, contact M.K. Larson Audiology today.
