1. Hearing Aids Won't Restore Normal Hearing
Hearing aids won't transform you into the bionic woman. There are certain physical changes that occur with hearing loss that can be helped by a hearing aid, but can't be undone. For example, many adults have trouble hearing high frequency pitches. Maybe you've heard that students have taken advantage of this by using high pitch ring tones on their cell phones. So, while a hearing aid helps to amplify the sounds around you, your ear still may not hear them.
2. Hearing Aids Won't Eliminate Background Noise
Many first time users soon find themselves taking out their hearing aids just to get a little peace and quiet. They find all the noise to be too much. Hearing aids amplify all sound, including the unwanted background noise. Newer digital models have special programs to block background noise, but even they are not perfect. Be patient. Take some time to find the strategies that work best for you (see below).
3. Hearing Aids Work Best When Used in Pairs
You may want the convenience of using only a single hearing aid. Or, you may think you look better with just one hearing aid. While fashion and convenience have their place, experience shows that when it comes to hearing aids, two are better than one. Using two hearing aids helps establish a sense of "place." By comparing the input from both ears, the brain more quickly recognizes the direction of the input, which makes understanding the sound easier.
4. Size Matters
You have choices. You might choose a "behind-the-ear" model, the traditional hearing aid that hangs on the ear and transmits sound through an ear mold that fits in the ear. While they're not the prettiest, they just may be the most effective. They're the most powerful type of hearing aid, extremely durable and very easy to adjust. Less noticeable options are "in-the-ear" or "in-the-canal" models. These small devices are usually digital and may have several programming options, including settings to eliminate background noise and for use in quiet settings. The sound quality is normally better with these devices, but they're also more likely to pick up wind noise and they can be difficult to adjust.
5. Alternate Strategies Are Important
Though hearing aids can be a great help, you'll still need to make other adjustments to hearing loss. Remember, no bionic heroes are being created--except in Hollywood. So, to help your hearing aids function at their best, adopt some of these other strategies: face the person you're speaking to; do your best to find a quiet place; sit with your back against the wall, so that sound will bounce back to your ear; pay attention to facial expressions and gestures to help understand what your friend is saying; ask your friend to sit in the light, so you'll be better able to see their mouth. Take some time. As you practice your strategies, you'll find the ones that work best for you.
