After receiving your hearing test results and determining that you would benefit from using hearing aids, your hearing instrument specialist will help you choose the right hearing aids for your specific listening needs. When your hearing aids are selected, follow-up appointments will be made so that you can be properly fitted for the devices and the hearing instrument specialist will program different settings for you. You will also get a better understanding of how they work and how to take care of them.
Two Types of Batteries Hearing aids come in various shapes, styles, and sizes. There are behind-the-ear (BTE), in-the-ear (ITE), and in-the-canal (ITC) styles. The two battery styles are disposable batteries and rechargeable batteries. Your hearing instrument specialist will go over and help you understand the battery that your hearing aids have, along with maintenance practices for the batteries. The disposable batteries are known as zinc-air button batteries. They are tiny and are manually placed inside the hearing aid. You need to know when the batteries are low and how to replace them. Hearing aid batteries should be stored in a cool, dry place. The tabs on the batteries should remain on the batteries until you are ready to use them. Removing the tab activates the batteries, so make sure you have your hearing aids ready to insert the batteries immediately. Keep in mind that hearing aid batteries need to be stored safely so animals and children cannot get a hold of them. Read more about it in our article: Beware of Children and Pets Who May Swallow Hearing Aid Batteries If you have a rechargeable battery, you need to understand how to recharge it so that it remains effective. Be aware that using streaming features to listen to phone calls, music, or other media will drain the batteries faster. A Comfortable Fit When you look for clothes or shoes, you try them on before purchasing them. You want to make sure they’re comfortable before you bring them home and wear them around. It’s the same idea with hearing aids. The dome on the hearing aid receiver (the piece that rests in your ear canal) is available in standard sizes. Making sure you have the right size so it feels comfortable and doesn’t produce feedback noises is important. You may also get a custom receiver that perfectly fits the unique shape of your ears. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled so that you can discuss any issues you’re having with the fit of your hearing aids. Your hearing instrument specialist will work with you until you are satisfied with the function and feel of your hearing aids. Hearing Aid Maintenance Modern hearing aids are advanced. Not only can they make sounds louder, but they also have the ability to block out background noise. Some hearing aids feature artificial intelligence (AI) so that they can automatically switch settings based on your environment. You need to regularly clean your hearing aids and properly store them when not in use. Earwax, moisture, or other debris can obstruct your hearing aid microphones and tubes, which can distort the way you hear. Professional/deeper cleanings by your provider should be made every six months or less if you are experiencing problems. Your provider will go over this in more detail during your hearing aid fitting. Keep a Hearing Journal Getting new hearing aids and being fitted for them is an important event in your life. You should come up with questions before, during, and after receiving your hearing aids. Keep a journal about your progress and any problems that you encounter. Notice where/when you hear better in certain situations. Your fitting appointment is a perfect time to discuss any concerns you have, but don’t hesitate to contact their office any time after your appointment. That’s what they are there for. If you need hearing aids and a proper hearing aid fitting, contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a free hearing aid trial. Whether you are trying to fit in that last summer vacation, planning for Labor Day, or are readily available to travel all year long (Hello retirees!), sometimes it’s nice to get away by yourself. It is fun to explore a new place, and traveling is a great way to socialize and improve your overall health.
For some, hearing loss can make traveling slightly more challenging, especially if you plan to travel solo. Being prepared can make traveling alone easier. 1. Receive Treatment for Hearing Loss Before Traveling If you experience hearing loss and haven’t sought treatment, get your hearing tested immediately. As with any health concern, early treatment is better for your health. Your hearing healthcare provider will offer treatment options suitable for your hearing loss. That may include hearing aids or an assistive listening device. If you wear hearing aids, your hearing instrument specialist can program channels on your hearing aids to make it easier to focus on crucial things to hear, like a flight delay, while blocking out unwanted noises like a crying baby on the plane. 2. Pack Accordingly In addition to your clothes and other essential items, don’t forget to pack accessories used with your hearing aids. Bring extra batteries or your hearing aid charger, a waterproof case, tools, cleaning wipes, and any other things you use to care for your hearing aids. If you forgot any of these items, look up a local hearing aid business to get your supplies. 3. Start by Taking Small Travel Trips Your first solo trip doesn’t need to be abroad. There are lots of places to visit and enjoy within your local region. Whether you plan to travel by airplane or train, traveling to a closer area can give you practice on what it’ll be like to go through airports or train stations without the intimidation of being too outside of your home/comfort zone. 4. Do thorough Research Before Your Trip Learning and understanding more about your means of travel, hotels, motels, an Airbnb that you are staying at, and the city/town you’re visiting will be to your advantage. You can feel more confident and secure when traveling. In addition to the area where you will be staying, it’s a good idea to research museums, parks, restaurants, theaters, or other spaces you plan to visit so you know what to expect regarding the establishment’s accommodations for people with hearing loss. 5. Keep in Contact with Loved Ones Solo travel should still include loved ones. Have regular check-ins. When traveling abroad, ensure you can text and call each other, even with the international barrier. A reliable method of contacting someone is crucial in case of emergencies. If you, or a loved one, experience hearing loss and need new hearing aids, supplies, or a professional cleaning for your hearing aids before traveling, schedule an appointment at Pure Sound Hearing. Hearing aids, just like every technological device, should be upgraded in order to keep up with your hearing health needs. On average, hearing aids should be replaced every three to six years - depending on usage, along with wear and tear, and your maintenance practices.
4 Things to Consider When Upgrading Your Hearing Aids 1. The level and style of the hearing technology. 2. What is the overall quality of the hearing aids? Are maintenance issues becoming more difficult? 3. Possible changes in hearing abilities and listening lifestyle. 4. What is the condition of your current hearing aids? How is their performance? 5 Signs You Need New Hearing Aids 1. Faulty Devices Do you still notice problems, even when you follow proper maintenance recommendations? Maybe your batteries drain faster than usual, or noises still sound suppressed after switching out wax guards. 2. Repairs are getting Expensive Do you frequently get your hearing aids repaired? If you have an older model, it’s harder to find the necessary parts or the model may be discontinued. Sometimes repairs cost as much as a new hearing aid, so you may as well purchase new hearing aids. 3. Changes in Your Hearing Your hearing abilities may change due to aging, exposure to loud sounds, or other health problems. Even though hearing aids can be tweaked and re-programmed to your new listening needs, too much change in your hearing may require a more powerful hearing technology. 4. Developments in Technology Just like every piece of technology currently out on the market, hearing aids have made so many new advancements each year. Some have rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, tinnitus masking features, better ways to filter out background noise, Bluetooth® streaming, fall detection features, and translating languages with captions. 5. Are You Frequenting New and Different Environments? If you’ve made changes to your lifestyle, you might need different technology. Do you play a new sport? There are hearing aids with a moisture-resistant coating - this does NOT mean that they are water-proof, there are no water-proof hearing aids. Do you find yourself spending more time outdoors? You can get hearing aids that are programmed to automatically adjust to the environment that you are in. If you or a loved one, are looking for an upgrade from your current hearing aids, contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a complimentary consultation. |
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