One of the most common annoyances of hearing aids is that it is difficult to tune out the background noise. Background noise can cause annoying feedback and echos. There are new technologies that have caused the hearing aide to have fewer problems with echos, but there are still some ways to use Widex hearing aids or other brands in a manner that minimizes this problem.
Learn to Use Your New Hearing Aids
Sounds will often seem different than what you are used to, so you should spend some time listening to background noises to try to get accustomed to them. You may not need any adjustments if you become used to them. For example, practice listening by watching the news. News programs tend to speak more clearly than other programs. Then, start watching more challenging programs such as reality TV.
When talking on the phone, place the phone in front of the hearing aid microphone. Then, the phone will be placed in a location where the hearing aid will be able to hear it the most. Also, for those hearing aids that are behind-the-ear, there is usually a tele-loop that is built in. If you use a phone that has a tele-loop built in, you may be able to improve your ability to hear. If you use a cell phone, make sure it is hearing aid compatible or you may have a difficult time hearing.
Get Hearing Aids on Both Sides
Get hearing aids on both sides rather than one. When you have hearing aids on each side, it is easier to hear where sounds are coming from and they are less confusing. Two hearing aids can also make it easier to understand speech.
Choose the Right Hearing Aids
Modern hearing aids can also come with small computers that can lower some sounds and amplify others. Digital signal processing identifies speech and lowers the volume of other noises. Directional microphones can also help by allowing you to control from which direction you are hearing sounds. For example, if you want to focus on a conversation with someone in front of you, you can switch the microphone to the front. For the directional microphone to be effective in a noisy setting, you will need to turn your head in the direction of the sound that you would like to hear.
While hearing aids can take some getting used to, you will notice an improvement in your ability to hear and understand speech. Also, as the technology improves, background noises will become even less of a problem.
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