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Eight steps towards better hearing
You need to get used to your new hearing instrument. Sounds
seem new and different. That is because you grew accustomed to
your diminished hearing. Therefore, familiar sounds seem strange
or unnatural at first. Every first-time user of a hearing instrument
responds differently to this. Some can wear the new instrument a
whole day right from the start while others find it hard to get used
to.
After a while, you will notice you appreciate hearing with a hearing
instrument and that you will find it quite normal. Below, eight steps
are described that will guide you through the initial period. If you are
not satisfied or keep experiencing problems, please consult your
hearing care practitioner.
1. Get used to familiar sounds at home
Try to get used to the new sounds from a familiar environment.
Listen to the different (background) sounds and try to recognise
them. When you are tired from listening, remove your instrument
and pause for a while. Talk or read aloud for a while. In that way you
will familiarise yourself with the sound of your own voice. Gradually,
you will learn to use the instrument for longer and become more
comfortable with it.
2. Listen outside - quiet & traffic
Go outside, to a quiet place, e.g., the park or woods. Listen to the
environmental sounds. Do you recognise them?
Please, be careful with sounds from heavy traffic at this stage of
getting used to your instrument. Sometimes they sound very loud;
try not to get frightened.
