Hearing Rehabilitation is not something that is done for you or to you by your Audiologist. It requires your active participation, practice, and perseverance. It is not an event but rather a process; the fitting of hearing aids is only the beginning.

You are not embarking on this rehabilitation effort alone. The greatest success comes when you, your family and friends understand your hearing loss and what can be done to help you succeed.

What Should I Expect When I Pick Up My New Hearing Aids?
Your Audiologist will take you through several steps while fitting you with your new hearing aids.

They Will Cover:

• The parts of your hearing aids.
• Battery insertion and removal.
• Insertion and removal of the hearing aids.
• Adjusting the controls of your hearing aids (if applicable).
• Using your hearing aids with the telephone.
• Basic hearing aid maintenance.
• Possible hazards related to hearing aids and batteries.
• Warranties (Repair and Loss/Damage).

The sound quality and fit of your hearing aids may be fine-tuned at this visit. When the initial hearing aid fitting is completed, your trial period begins. This is time for you to adjust to your newfound hearing in different listening situations and determine if your Audiologist needs to make adjustments.

What Kind of Care Will My Hearing Aids Require?
Your Audiologist will give you detailed information on how to care for your hearing aids.

Things That You Should Be Aware of:

1. Batteries are hazardous if swallowed.

• Keep them out of reach of children and pets.
• Do not store them next to medications.

2. Hearing aids are not child’s play.

• When you are not wearing your hearing aids, store them away from children and pets.

3. Keep your hearing aids dry.

• Always take them out before showering or swimming.

4. Do not expose your hearing aids to extreme heat.

• Microwaving your hearing aids will melt the circuitry.

5. Open the battery door when you are not using your hearing aids.

• This will increase battery life.
• Prevents the hearing aids from whistling.
• Gives the interior of the aids time to air out.

6. The most important thing about caring for your hearing aids is to clean them regularly.

• Clean your hearing aids with a soft cloth and provided tools every day.

What Should I Expect in the First Month of Wearing My Hearing Aids?
Adjusting to your new hearing aids will take some time. The world will seem alive with many new and seemingly strange sounds. Because your hearing has not been functioning normally for some time, everyday sounds may seem unnatural at first. Relax, over time those sounds will become normal again.

Your hearing aids will amplify both the sounds you want to hear and some sounds that you may prefer not to hear. It may be somewhat annoying at first, but with patience and a short period of adjustment you should soon adapt to your newfound hearing.

During the first few days, use your hearing aids in quiet, familiar surroundings for a few hours at a time to give yourself a feel for the amplified sound and the use of the controls. Then, as you become comfortable, begin experimenting in noisier situations.

What Are Some Good Questions to Ask My Audiologist?
Feel free to ask questions. Your Audiologist is professionally trained to assist you in getting the greatest benefit from this important purchase. The better you understand your hearing aids, their benefits and limitations, the more successful you will be.

You May Want to Inquire Specifically about:

• Purchasing Batteries
• Loss/Damage Policies and Charges
• Repair Charges
• Extended Warranties
• Recommended Hearing Aid Accessories