In general, hearing loss is gradual, and hearing aids usually improve communication ability rapidly. However, it can take some time for the brain to adapt to a hearing aid. The brain is hearing different sounds than it has been accustomed to processing. It can take time for the brain to learn to screen the new, loud, insignificant sounds (background noise) from the more important, informational sounds.

Hearing aids should be worn as long as they are comfortable until a full day is reached. Thereafter they will become an integral part of the patient’s life.

Hearing Aid Education 

Research has shown that audibility - the ability to understand speech - is based on the volume of the sound, the clarity of the sound, and the speed by which the sound is delivered.  A patient's relatives and friends can help the communication process, particularly during the first few weeks after the patient receives a hearing aid. They should look directly at the patient when they talk and speak at a normal volume, but they should speak a little more slowly than usual. If the hearing aid is correctly adjusted, the patient will hear and understand much better than before. Special therapy sessions, called aural rehabilitation, may be needed to ensure patient and family satisfaction. 

Unfortunately, a hearing aid doesn't always solve the communication problems for a hard-of-hearing patient. There can still be difficulties with background noise, soft-spoken people, groups, and talking on the telephone, as well as the actual level of distortion related to the patient’s auditory pathway and other individual circumstances. It is important for patients to discuss any concerns with the Audiologist so any necessary adaptations can be made. At AC Associates, all hearing aids are adjusted to individual hearing loss and acoustical characteristics (resonance) of the individual’s ear canal, and are fine-tuned to each patient’s specific needs.