Simple Tips for First Time Hearing Aid Users

It can sometimes feel like an information overload when you first start using hearing aids. There is so much to learn within the first few days of using your new devices. Understandably so, it can be a little overwhelming at times! The good news is you are not alone in this!

Your Audiologist or Hearing Instrument Practitioner will introduce you to your hearing devices and show you how to keep them in tip-top shape. And at the end of the day, if you need more help or miss a step, your clinician will be right by your side.

Transitioning to using a hearing device can come more intuitively to some people than others. Below you’ll find some simple instructions that address the most common questions asked by first-time hearing aid users. The most important thing is that you find what works best for you!

Q: How do I know which side is which?

A: The right side is labelled with red coloured markers, while the left side is labelled with blue coloured markers. You can find these coloured markers on the battery doors, the speaker of Receiver-in-Canal hearing aids, or etched on the canal portion of any custom-made hearing aids.

Q: When should I wear them? When do I take them off?

A: You should put your hearing aids on first thing in the morning and aim to wear them all day! The only time you shouldn’t be wearing them is when you’re sleeping or bathing. Even though they are water-resistant, it is a good idea to keep them dry. When putting them down for the night, open the battery door to save energy and extend your battery life!

Q: How can I check if they are working?

A: You may hear an alarm-like bell or musical jingle when the hearing aid turns on. If you miss this, gently rub your finger across the hearing aid when it is on your ear. You should hear a loud rustle or “shhhh” sound when you tap on the hearing aid microphones.

Q: How do I know when to change the battery?

A: The hearing aid will tell you! You should hear a clear, audible bell or jingle, depending on how the hearing aid is programmed. Most of our hearing aids may even whisper “battery” in your ear so you know without a doubt that the battery needs to be changed.

Q: How do I clean them?

A: When it comes to cleaning, the biggest priority is checking for wax regularly. If you see wax on your hearing aid after wearing it, wipe it off with a soft cloth or a tissue. To be more thorough, you can also use a small brush or a toothbrush to wipe dirt and debris away from the microphones. Occasionally, you will need to change the filter or wax guard, which your clinician will likely demonstrate for you.

Q: When should I come back next?

A: You will likely have your first follow-up appointment, with your Practitioner, 1 to 2 weeks after you take your hearing aids home. You may continue to see them every 2 weeks during your trial period, and eventually, decrease your appointments to every 6 months.

Feel free to come into Living Sounds Hearing Centre anytime or give us a call, if you feel like you need a refresher on your hearing aid maintenance. As always, it is our clinical team and staff members mission to give our clients the best service! If help is needed, we are here to lend a hand.

Tania Gora M.Sc., R.Aud., Aud (C)
Registered Audiologist