.png){kind=logo}
Hearing aids have numerous benefits that go beyond just improving your hearing. People who use hearing aids have improved mental and physical health and stronger social connections than those with untreated hearing loss.
To get the most out of your hearing aids it is helpful to know:
How to properly use and maintain them
What your expectations should be
How to improve your ability to interpret sound and speech
How to cope with the emotional aspects of hearing loss
Auditory training addresses all these issues to improve the quality of life for people who use hearing aids and cochlear implants. Let’s examine some of the different elements of training and their benefits.
Sensory Management and Instruction
The first goal of hearing aids or cochlear implants is obviously to improve the quality of your hearing. Working with your audiologist to find the best pair for you might take a bit of time and several adjustments, but it’s well worth the wait to maximize your hearing ability.
However, simply giving someone hearing aids isn’t enough to ensure they will get the most out of their device. Using hearing aids is not intuitive and people benefit from being given proper instruction on how to use them. Studies have shown that formal instruction in hearing aid and accessory management leads to an increased usage of the device. This leads to better outcomes and improved overall hearing quality.
Improve Perception with Auditory Training
People with hearing loss often first notice they have a problem because they find themselves regularly struggling to understand what others are saying. It might happen at work, while watching television or when out to eat at Blue Moose.
Auditory training can help you better interpret sound and speech through various exercises like vowel and consonant training. It also includes exercises meant to improve your ability to interpret visual cues that can help you follow conversations and engage with others.
Benefits of Counseling
Learning to better follow conversations is vital for those with hearing aids. Many people suffer with hearing loss for years before receiving treatment. During that time, they may experience feelings of frustration, depression and anxiety about their condition. This can cause people to isolate and their relationships and quality of life to suffer.
Receiving counseling from a trained professional can help you process the emotional elements of hearing loss. Additionally, counselors can offer coping strategies and help set realistic expectations as you learn to use your new hearing device.
For more information or to schedule an appointment with a hearing aid expert, call Topeka ENT today.