What Are Hearing Aids?
Hearing aids are devices that receive sound from the external environment, amplify it, and transmit it to the ear. Hearing aids are divided into two different types: devices that provide bone conduction and devices that provide air conduction. Air conduction devices are available in three different types: behind-the-ear, in-the-ear, and completely-in-the-canal.
Devices fitted to both ears simultaneously are called bi-aural hearing aids. The main advantages of using hearing aids in both ears compared to using one hearing aid are:
- They provide balanced hearing by allowing sound to be heard at the same intensity in both ears.
- They enable the perception of the direction from which sound originates.
- They increase speech understanding in noisy environments.
- They provide a greater capacity for sound amplification.
The type and degree of hearing loss affect the benefit obtained from the hearing aid. In people with hearing loss, in addition to reduced hearing levels, there is also a decrease in speech understanding ability. In patients with conductive hearing loss, speech understanding ability is not impaired, and this group of patients benefits the most from hearing aids. In individuals with sensorineural hearing loss, speech understanding ability may also be reduced, so understanding what is heard may not always be possible, even with the most advanced hearing aid.
LEARNING TO USE A HEARING AID:
- Although the degree of hearing loss, the features of the hearing aid, and personal factors affect the success and duration of adaptation to the device, rehabilitation within a structured program provides significant benefits. People who have just started using hearing aids will adapt more easily by following the recommendations below:
- The hearing aid should first be used at home: Since these devices amplify every sound in the environment, focusing on speech takes time. This practice helps users become accustomed to background noise.
- The hearing aid should be worn as long as it feels comfortable and removed if discomfort occurs. Daily usage time should be increased gradually.
- Until adaptation is achieved, using the hearing aid while talking with only one person for a few days helps speed up the adjustment process.
- Do not try to hear and understand every single word.
- It is normal for background noise to affect understanding. Learning to distinguish noise from speech will take time.
- Practice identifying the direction from which sounds come. This can be done by closing your eyes while another person speaks from different locations.
- Tolerance to loud sounds should be increased. This exercise can be performed by gradually increasing the volume while listening to television or radio. When it becomes uncomfortable, reduce the volume, then gradually increase it again. Over time, tolerance will improve.
- Practice distinguishing different sounds. Prepare a list of words that differ by only one letter (such as “masa-kasa,” “isim-ilim,” etc.) and ask someone to read them slowly in pairs. While carefully listening and observing lip movements, try to distinguish the words as they are read individually.
- Follow along with a written text while someone reads aloud. Pause occasionally and check the last word that was read.
- While using the hearing aid only at home, gradually increase the number of people speaking at the same time. It may not be possible to understand everyone simultaneously. Focusing on the person speaking the most is usually more beneficial.
- The environments in which the hearing aid is used should be gradually diversified. Places such as supermarkets, cinemas, and social gatherings can be tried progressively. Starting with quieter and less noisy environments will accelerate the adaptation process.
- Lip-reading training should be taken. It is a highly supportive technique for hearing aid users.
- To improve hearing aid use on the telephone, practice by having another person call you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Are Hearing Aids Used?
Hearing aids should be switched on after being correctly placed in the ear. Proper positioning of the device and using the recommended settings provide the best hearing performance.
How Is a Hearing Aid Worn?
Regardless of the model, the device should be gently placed in the ear and fitted securely. Receiving practical training from an audiologist during the initial use may be beneficial.
Should a Hearing Aid Be Worn Throughout the Day?
Yes, wearing a hearing aid regularly throughout the day helps the brain adapt to sounds and may improve hearing performance.
How Is the Volume of a Hearing Aid Adjusted?
Many modern hearing aids can adjust the volume automatically. For models requiring manual adjustment, the volume can be changed using the buttons on the device or through a mobile application.
What Should Be Considered When Using a Hearing Aid?
The device should be protected from water, moisture, and impacts, cleaned regularly, and used in accordance with the manufacturer’s maintenance instructions.
Should a Hearing Aid Be Worn at Night?
No, a hearing aid should generally be removed before going to sleep. This allows the ear to rest and provides an opportunity for maintenance and battery inspection.
How Can the Battery or Charge Level of a Hearing Aid Be Checked?
For battery-powered models, the battery level should be checked regularly and replaced when necessary. Rechargeable models should be charged regularly according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
How Is a Hearing Aid Cleaned?
The device should be cleaned with a soft, dry cloth, earwax buildup should be removed regularly, and water or chemical substances should not be used during cleaning.
Can I Talk on the Phone While Wearing a Hearing Aid?
Yes, many hearing aids are compatible with telephone calls. Bluetooth-enabled models can transmit phone audio directly to the hearing aid.
What Should I Do If I Experience Problems While Using My Hearing Aid?
If you experience sound quality, comfort, or technical issues with your device, it is recommended that you contact your hearing center or audiologist instead of attempting to fix the problem yourself.
