According to the National Institutes of Health, only one in five people who could benefit from a hearing device actually wears one. It’s important to wear your devices, because left untreated, hearing loss can lead to social isolation, depression, poor work performance, increased falls/hospitalizations and cognitive decline.
Reasons You’re Not Wearing Your Devices
Below is a list of reasons you may not be wearing your devices and how to remedy potential problems:
Your hearing device doesn’t fit properly
If your hearing aid doesn’t fit you properly, it may also cause whistling or feedback. Over-the-ear devices may fall off your ear, and in-the-ear devices could cause redness and sores. If any of these is true for your devices, see an audiologist right away to find a pair that better fits the anatomy of your ear.
Hearing again can be overwhelming
When you’re first fit with a pair of hearing devices, you’ll hear a lot of sounds you’re not accustomed to, like the hum of the refrigerator or birds chirping outside your window. This sensory overload causes many people to give up on wearing their devices; however, if you stay committed to wearing your devices, your brain will become re-accustomed to the sounds and learn to tune them out. Intermittent use of hearing devices will not yield successful results.
Feeling Self-Consciousness
Many people don’t want to buy or wear hearing devices because they’re afraid they’ll make them “look old.” However, being able to listen and communicate with those around you – your friends, family and colleagues – will make you appear much less “old” than asking everyone to repeat themselves. If you’re self-conscious about the appearance of your hearing aids, there are many discreet styles available such as in-canal devices and nude colors that will blend in to your skin.
Why You Should Wear Your Devices
You’ve already made the investment in your hearing health – why not put in the effort to maximize your investment? The more you wear your hearing aids, the more comfortable you will be in them. Besides, it’s not all about you; your family and friends will enjoy the ability to converse with you easily, without hearing loss getting in the way.
To talk to an audiologist about maximizing your hearing investment, call Today’s Hearing and schedule an appointment!