Hearing aids can bring many life-changing benefits, but adjusting to new devices can take time as the brain relearns how to process sounds. Knowing what to expect during the process can help ease uncertainty and build confidence as you navigate this change.
In this guide, we provide an overview of what to expect when adjusting to new hearing aids, including expert tips and strategies to help the process go as smoothly as possible.
How the Brain Adjusts to New Hearing Aids
When you first start wearing hearing aids, sounds may seem louder, sharper, or different than you remember. This is because your brain has adapted to hearing less sound over time and needs to relearn how to process sounds that were previously difficult to hear due to hearing loss.
If you wear prescription eyeglasses, you have probably experienced a similar adjustment period as your eyes get used to being able to see more details again. With hearing aids, your brain needs time to adjust to the increased amount of auditory information it is receiving.
Everyday sounds, such as footsteps, background conversations, or running water, may initially feel distracting or even overwhelming. Not only is this completely normal, but it is also a good sign that your brain is receiving the auditory stimulation it needs to stay healthy. With consistent use, you will gradually become more accustomed to these sounds again.
Wearing your hearing aids regularly gives your brain more opportunities to adapt, making sounds feel more natural and comfortable over time.
How Long Does It Take to Get Used to New Hearing Aids?
Many people adjust to new hearing aids within the first few days or weeks, while others can take up to a month to fully get used to them. There is no set time frame, as the process depends on your degree of hearing loss, how often you wear your new devices, and how long the hearing loss went untreated.
Knowing what to expect during this transition can also make the process easier. Read on to learn more about what you may experience when wearing new hearing aids.
What to Expect When Wearing New Hearing Aids
When you start wearing hearing aids, you may notice changes in how you hear conversations, environmental sounds, and even your own voice. Some changes may be noticeable from the start, while others may become apparent as you spend more time wearing your devices.
Knowing what to expect can help you feel more prepared and give you a better idea of what is normal during the transition. Below are some of the most common experiences you may encounter while adjusting to new hearing aids:
Everyday Sounds May Seem Louder at First
One of the first things you may notice with new hearing aids is that everyday sounds seem louder than they did before. Noises such as running water, dishes clattering, traffic, or nearby conversations may suddenly stand out or sound harsh or even “metallic.”
This can happen because your hearing aids are restoring access to sounds your brain has become accustomed to missing. As you continue wearing your hearing aids, your brain can learn to distinguish between useful sounds and background noise, making these sounds feel more natural over time.
Your Own Voice May Sound Different
Another common effect of new hearing aids is that your own voice may sound different to you. Some people describe it as sounding hollow, echoey, too loud, or as though you are speaking inside a barrel.
This can occur because the hearing aids change how sound travels into and around your ear. For most people, the sound becomes more natural as they get used to wearing their devices. Your brain typically adapts after one to two weeks of consistent daily wear, and with time, your voice will sound completely normal to you again.
Background Sounds Might Be Overwhelming
When you start wearing hearing aids, background sounds may feel surprisingly intense or overwhelming at first. Background noises that you may not have noticed before, such as leaves rustling, appliances running, or typing on a keyboard, can suddenly become much more noticeable.
This is usually temporary as your brain learns to filter out the increased amount of auditory information. Taking short breaks when needed and gradually increasing your wearing time can make the adjustment more manageable.
If sounds are still overwhelming after a couple of weeks of wearing your hearing aids consistently, your specialist can adjust your settings to ensure optimal comfort.
You May Experience Mild Ear Discomfort
During the first few days, it is also common to experience mild itching, tickling, or ear discomfort when getting used to new hearing aids. The skin inside your ear canal is highly sensitive, and it may not be used to the sensation of wearing a hearing aid. Even with custom-molded devices, this is completely normal and usually goes away on its own in a day or two.
However, your hearing aids should never cause persistent or significant discomfort, irritation, or pressure in your ears. If you have concerns about your hearing aid fit, your specialist can help readjust or refit them to ensure maximum comfort and performance.
Tips for Adjusting to New Hearing Aids
Getting used to new hearing aids takes time, but a few simple strategies can make the transition easier. The goal is to give your brain consistent exposure to auditory information while allowing yourself time to become comfortable with your new devices.
Below are some tips for adjusting to new hearing aids that can help make the process as smooth as possible:
Start in Quiet Environments
Begin by wearing your hearing aids at home or in other quiet settings where there are fewer competing sounds. This gives your brain time to adjust to amplification without becoming overwhelmed. Gradually try out more complex environments as your brain adjusts.
Minimize Background Noise
When practicing listening, reduce unnecessary background noise by turning off the television, closing windows, or moving away from noisy appliances. This can make it easier to focus on and understand speech.
Read Out Loud
Reading aloud gives you an opportunity to hear your own voice through your hearing aids. It can help your brain become more accustomed to how your voice sounds while also providing listening practice.
Use TV Captions
Watching television with captions can help you connect the sounds you hear with the words being spoken. This can help your brain reconnect sounds with language and improve speech comprehension.
Go on Walks
Walking outdoors provides an opportunity to practice hearing different sounds in a natural environment, such as birds chirping or leaves rustling. Start in quieter areas and gradually try busier settings as you become more comfortable.
Clean and Care for Your Hearing Aids
Keeping your hearing aids clean and properly maintained ensures optimal fit and performance. Follow all the instructions for cleaning, storage, and battery or charging care provided by your hearing care specialist.
Attend Follow-Up Appointments
Follow-up appointments give your specialist an opportunity to fine-tune your hearing aids based on your feedback, which can help speed up the adjustment process. Be specific about any sounds that feel uncomfortable or situations where you are having difficulty. With consistent use and professional support, you’ll gradually become more confident and comfortable in your new and improved way of hearing.
Adjusting to hearing aids can take time. The key is to stay patient and give your brain time to adapt and relearn how to process sounds. Consistent use and regular communication with your hearing care specialist can help you get the most from your devices.
Schedule a Hearing Aid Consultation at White's Advanced Hearing in Lincoln
If you’ve noticed changes in your hearing, you don’t have to navigate the next steps on your own. The specialists at White's Advanced Hearing can evaluate your hearing, answer your questions, and help you find the best hearing solutions for your needs, budget, and lifestyle.
Already have hearing aids? If you’re having trouble adjusting to your devices, we’re here for you, too. At White's Advanced Hearing in Lincoln we offer new hearing aid wearer assistance for all hearing aid brands, no matter where you bought them.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the next step toward better hearing.