“Among adults aged 70 and older with hearing loss who could benefit from hearing aids, fewer than one in three (30 percent) has ever used them. Even fewer adults aged 20 to 69 (approximately 16 percent) who could benefit from wearing hearing aids have ever used them,” reports the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders.
If you’re among the population who has chosen to treat their hearing loss, congratulations! You’re already on your journey to healthier hearing. To get the most out of your hearing aids during this new year, follow our tips below.
Get an Updated Audiogram
If it’s been more than a year since your last hearing test and audiogram, the best way to maximize your hearing ability is to schedule another. This way, your audiologist can uncover whether your hearing ability has changed and if your hearing aids need to be reprogrammed. They can then fit your devices to the specifications of your current hearing ability.
Clean Them Daily
Your hearing aids will both perform better and last longer if they’re cleaned every single day. When you take your hearing aids out each night, first wipe them down with a soft, dry, clean cloth. Then, you should use a wax pick or wire loop to remove stubborn debris. Finally, open the battery doors and use a brush to clean the compartment. Remove any tubing and wash it in warm, soapy water once a week, but make sure it’s completely dry before reattaching it.
Add Accessories
Accessories can make wearing hearing aids more convenient. Some accessories we recommend include:
- Dehumidifier. This is the ideal place to store your hearing aids in at night, as it will remove any residual moisture that has accumulated during the day.
- Lanyard. If you live an active lifestyle and enjoy working out at , it may be worth investing in a hearing aid lanyard, which is a cord and clip that attaches your hearing aids to your clothing, so if they fall off, they won’t be lost or stepped on.
- Battery caddie. If your hearing aids take disposable button batteries, a battery caddie would be useful to attach to your keychain so you always have extras on hand.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, call Advanced Hearing today.