Hearing aids are a great solution to help you cope with hearing loss. They work by amplifying the sound around you and playing it back at a slightly louder volume inside of your ears so that you can pick up quieter sounds. However, some people might find it difficult to use their hearing aids because they’re not accustomed to the different controls and features that it might have.
Hearing aids are designed to be integrated into your lifestyle without much adjustment. You can simply put them on and go about your day as normal. However, getting used to them for the first time can seem a little strange, especially given that there are lots of different controls and settings that you can change.
Since every model is different, we highly recommend that you speak with your audiologist if you need help. They’ll be able to walk you through the different settings and features. In most cases, your audiologist will likely have given you a thorough run-down on the features that your hearing aids have. They’ll teach you how to use them, how to replace the battery and also help you troubleshoot potential issues. However, if you’ve forgotten anything, then you may want to consider looking at the manual or reading this guide before you decide to get in touch with your audiologist again.
Understanding how to control your hearing aids
In most cases, your audiologist will likely have given you a thorough explanation of the features that your hearing aids have. They’ll be able to walk you through how to use them, the different settings and features, how to replace the battery, and also troubleshoot any potential problems that you might face. If you’ve forgotten anything, then you may want to consider looking at the manual or reading this guide before you decide to get in touch with your audiologist again.
Since every model is different it should give you a basic understanding of how hearing aids are controlled if you currently don’t own a pair and are considering it.
Controlling via on-board controls
Most traditional hearing aids will have on-board controls and rocker switches. These are controlled by simply pressing them on the hearing aid itself. It may be a little difficult to press these switches if you’re not accustomed to it, or if you have limited dexterity with your fingers. This is something you’ll want to take into consideration before you settle on a pair of hearing aids as you might find it difficult to use otherwise.
It’s also common to have buttons to change between profiles and settings if your hearing aids support it. These are unique to each model of hearing aid, so we recommend speaking to your audiologist or reading the manual for information specific to your hearing aids.
Controlling via an accessory
Some hearing aids will come with a wireless accessory that can be used to control specific settings. For example, you can use it to make precise adjustments to your hearing aid volume, and it can also be used to turn certain features on and off. These devices can usually be charged if they have an internal battery, but they can also be battery powered in some cases.
Many of these devices are as small as a remote control, making them portable and easy to carry with you. These are considered a premium option and are perfect for most people that want a little more control over their hearing aids but are concerned about the small buttons and volume rocker on a standard hearing aid.
Controlling via a smartphone app
Lastly, some hearing aids can be paired via Bluetooth technology with a smartphone app. This works similarly to an added accessory, but you don’t need to have a separate device. You can simply use it with your phone by downloading an app and pairing it. These kinds of hearing aids might also have features to let you take calls or play music. This is the recommended choice for people who are accustomed to using smartphone apps and Bluetooth technology.
Get in touch for more information
If you’d like to learn more about the various types of hearing aids available, don’t hesitate to contact Albuquerque Hearing and Balance today at (505) 750-9569. Our experts will help you find the most-suited technology for your needs, as well as educating you on the proper usage and care of your devices.