Most hearing aid users receive full instructions from an audiologist on how to insert a full shell hearing aid. In fact, most audiologists do not dispense a hearing aid if a patient does not understand how to insert or use the aid. However, some companies sell hearing aids through the mail, and the instructions given with them may not seem clear. Sometimes, it may be necessary to insert a hearing aid for someone else, particularly when caring for the elderly or ill. Save the instructions here.
Inserting a Hearing Aid
Step 1
Learn about the parts of the hearing aid so you can insert the shell correctly. Hard plastic coats the entire shell of the hearing aid, usually in a flesh-toned color, and the front of the shell contains the microphone, vent, volume wheel, and battery drive for power.
Step 2
Place your left thumb on the canal end of the shell, while placing your left forefinger on the left side of the shell. The hearing aid shell is smooth and slippery, so hold the shell securely.
Step 3
Insert the canal end of the shell into the ear and remove your forefinger. Let your thumb guide the left side of the shell further into the ear. Once the shell stops going further into the ear, it has reached the proper place. You will feel the shell fit in the ear like a puzzle piece because the hearing aid only fits one way, which matches the size and contour of your ear.
Step 4
For added security, push on the front side of the shell to be certain it is in place. Use a gentle push on the shell, or toggle anywhere on the front of the unit unit until it sits naturally in the ear using your forefinger.
Step 5
Wiggle your ear to allow the shell to find a natural resting spot. Although the mold conforms to your specific ear shape and size, the shell settles naturally in your ear, but wiggling your ear lets the shell adjust for maximum comfort. You can also open and close your mouth for final adjustments as well.
Step 6
For inserting a full shell into another's ear, place your thumb on the canal end of the aid, while using your forefinger on the left side to guide the shell into the ear. This is the opposite finger position needed for self-insertion. You may pull taut on the outer ear with the opposite hand for easier insertion if needed.
Step 7
Alternatively, you may insert the shell holding the top and bottom, rather than holding it from the side. Place your thumb on the bottom of the shell and forefinger on the top of the shell. Holding at an angel at approximately 90 degrees, insert the receiver or canal end into the canal and push the front of the shell into place.
Tips and Warnings
- Don't worry about pushing on the front of the hearing aid, afraid you may damage the unit. Gently pushing on the shell will not damage the unit. Try toggling the volume control button because the notch is easier to locate and take hold of, while the nonslip grip on this notch provides finger stability. Keep the shell clean from wax, oil, dirt and other residue. Do not insert the shell in the ear if the receiver end has wax buildup. It could damage the hearing aid, and further damage your hearing.
Things You'll Need
- Full Shell Hearing Aid
References
- Cheryl Myers, self (former hearing aid wearer, now with a cochlear implant)
- Page 11 dispensers must instruct users before dispensing
