How to use hearing aids
What to expect from hearing aids?
At All Ears in Hearing, we will show you how to use and care for your investment – ensuring your ear plugs or hearing device is working correctly. You also have the opportunity to practice using it in the clinic, so we can quickly resolve any problems you may have. We also provide you with clear, written instructions.
Identifying Left from Right
The device for the right ear has RED markings.
The device for the left ear has BLUE markings
Inserting into the Ear
To avoid whistling, switch off your instruments off before inserting them into the ear. The key to getting the instrument or ear plugs into the ear is by holding the instrument or mould correctly before you begin. If your hearing instrument or ear mould has an air vent (hollow tube through mould or instrument), this usually runs along the base. Put your thumb on the base and your index finger on the top.
The longest, ‘pointiest’ part of the instrument or mould is the canal end. This end should be pointed at the entrance to your ear canal. Use your other hand to pull up the ear and out. Keep your wrist straight as you bring the instrument or mould up to the ear and direct the canal end first into the ear canal.
If you have a behind-the-ear device, once you have the mould in, put the instrument behind the ear. Some people find it easier to put the instrument behind the ear first and then direct the mould into the ear. It will require a bit of practice, so try using different methods and choose whatever suits you best.
Removing from the Ear
To avoid whistling, switch off your instruments before removing them. Remove them over a soft surface such as a bed, taking care not to drop them. If your instrument has a removal line, use it to help pull the instrument or mould out of the ear. Otherwise, put your thumb behind your ear lobe, just below the cartilage and gently press upwards. Grip the instrument or mould and rotate it towards the face while pulling it out of the ear.
Turning the Instruments Off and On
This will depend on the instrument. Some hearing aids have an on/off switch, whereas others require you to simply disconnect or remove the battery to switch it off. Reconnect or insert the battery to turn the instrument back on.
Batteries
Batteries for hearing aids come in 4 different sizes, so make sure you are using the correct size. To replace the battery, remove the protective covering, open the battery door and place the battery in, with the flat side facing you. The battery door will not close if the battery is not inserted correctly. If you have difficulty changing the battery, a magnet can be found on the end of the cleaning brush to assist.
The life of hearing aid batteries depends on a number of factors such as hearing instrument style and model, hours of use and remembering to turn off the device when you are not wearing it. Most hearing devices have warning signals to alert the wearer when it’s time to change the battery.
Adjusting Controls
If your hearing instrument has controls, they can be used to adjust volume and change between listening programs. The volume control can either be a switch or wheel. Move the switch or wheel upwards to increase volume and downwards to decrease volume. To change between listening programs press the button. For button operated hearing aids, an indicator signal may be heard to let you know what listening program you are in. If you find a difficult to adjust controls, a remote control can help. Some devices can be also be controlled using an app on your phone.
Using the Phone
It’s best to first practice using the phone with your hearing devices by calling friends or family members and using different techniques to determine what works best for you. At All Ears in Hearing, we are happy to demonstrate and practice the different techniques with you. There are many accessories available to improve hearing on the phone. Contact us for further information.
Remote Microphone
Many hearing aid manufacturers now offer a small microphone that can be worn by a speaker or placed on a table to help hear the conversation better.
Television
Bluetooth Accessories are now available that stream your TV into your hearing aids, allowing you to hear to TV clearly and at a volume that won’t disturb others.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Click here to be taken to the page on cleaning and maintenance
Positioning the Phone
If you experience feedback (whistling) when using the phone, move the handset slightly away from the ear. For behind-the-ear style instruments, the microphone sits above the ear, so position the handset near this microphone.
Telecoil
If your hearing aids have a telecoil, try using that to improve clarity on the phone. You may need to increase the volume of your hearing aid and move the handset around to find the best position. Most telecoils are only compatible with corded, landline phones. Click here for further information
Mobile Phones
Bluetooth wireless communication and other devices that work in conjunction with the telecoil in the hearing aid, enable hands-free operation of your mobile phone. Make an appointment with All Ears in Hearing to discuss Bluetooth accessories that can help in hearing mobile phone conversation.If you have difficulty hearing your mobile phone ring, try using a vibrate alert and a ring tone with lower pitches if you have a hearing loss affecting the higher pitches. SMS is another easy way to communicate using mobile phones.
Frequently asked questions
How do I tell which hearing aid goes in which ear?
Look for the colour marking. The device for the right ear has red markings, and the device for the left ear has blue markings. If you are unsure, bring your hearing aids to the clinic and we can show you. Call 07 3841 3764 (Rochedale South) or 0478 282 561 (Shailer Park).
How do I put my hearing aid in without it whistling?
Switch it off before you insert it, as this helps avoid whistling. Hold it with your thumb on the base and your index finger on top, point the canal end towards your ear canal, and gently pull your ear up and out with your other hand. It takes practice, and we can practise with you in the clinic.
How do I take my hearing aids out safely?
Switch them off first, and hold them over a soft surface such as a bed so they are not damaged if dropped. If your device has a removal line, use it to help ease the device out. Otherwise, press gently behind your earlobe, grip the device and rotate it towards your face as you pull it out.
How do I change the battery in my hearing aid?
Remove the protective cover, open the battery door and place the new battery in with the flat side facing you. The door will not close properly if the battery is in the wrong way. Hearing aid batteries come in different sizes, so use the correct one, and a magnet on the cleaning brush can help.
How do I change the volume or listening program?
If your device has controls, a switch or wheel usually adjusts the volume, and a button usually changes the listening program. Some devices beep to tell you which program you are in. If controls are hard to use, a remote control or a phone app may be an option for some devices.
Can I use my hearing aids on the phone?
Yes, and practising with friends or family helps you find what works. If you get whistling, move the handset slightly away from your ear. Some devices have a telecoil, and some work with Bluetooth. Ask our team to demonstrate the options that suit your device. Call 07 3841 3764 (Rochedale South) or 0478 282 561 (Shailer Park).
Is there a way to hear the television more clearly with hearing aids?
Some hearing aids work with Bluetooth accessories that stream the television sound to your devices, at a volume that does not need to disturb others. Whether this suits you depends on your hearing aid. Ask our team to explain which accessories work with your device.
How can I hear a conversation better in a group or at a table?
A remote microphone may help. It is a small microphone that a speaker can wear or that you can place on a table, and it sends their voice towards your hearing aids. Several manufacturers offer one, so ask our team whether it suits your device.