Adjusting to Your New Hearing Aids: Tips for the First 30 Days
Getting your first pair of hearing aids is a big and positive step! Whether you’re excited, nervous, or a little bit of both, it’s normal to need some time to adjust. After all, you’re not just getting used to wearing your new hearing aids—you’re reconnecting with sounds you may not have heard clearly in years.
At the Find My Hearing Clinic, independent hearing clinics across Australia, we often tell new clients that adjusting to hearing aids is a process, not an overnight fix. The first 30 days are especially important as your brain and ears begin working together in new ways.
To help make your journey as smooth and successful as possible, we have put together this blog with some practical tips for adjusting to your new hearing aids.
1. Start Slow and Build Up Gradually
You don’t need to wear your hearing aids all day from the start. Wearing them for a few hours daily and gradually increasing the time can help ease you into the experience. Begin in quieter environments, such as your home, and slowly work your way up to noisier places like shopping centres or cafes. It is, however, important to wear them. You will not get used to them if you do not wear them. If something is stopping you from wearing them, like they are too loud or they are hurting, call your independent hearing care professional and book an appointment so they can help you.
Tip: Try wearing your hearing aids during everyday activities, such as reading the newspaper with the radio on, conversing with family, or going for a walk in the park. While you might not think these are the activities you need your hearing aids for, wearing them in these situations helps your brain adapt to wearing them.
2. Expect Sounds to Be Different at First
Many people are surprised by how much they can hear with hearing aids—sometimes, even things they forgot make noise! The fridge’s hum, the click of a light switch, or birds chirping outside might initially seem unusually loud. Don’t worry—this is entirely normal.
Your brain is relearning how to process sound. Over time, it will start to filter out background noise and focus on what you want to hear. Be patient with yourself as you adapt. Remember, this is a process. It can also be tiring getting used to hearing these sounds so give yourself time to rest in those early days.
3. Give Your Brain Time to Adjust
Think of hearing aids as tools that help your ears deliver sound to your brain more effectively. But your brain has to interpret what you hear—and that takes time.
Just like getting used to wearing new glasses, your brain needs to adjust to hearing certain frequencies again.
Sticking with it, even when it feels strange, allows your brain to rewire and improve your overall hearing experience.
4. Be Open About Discomfort or Issues
Initial discomfort is common, especially if you’re new to wearing something in or around your ears. However, your hearing aids should never be painful or cause irritation.
If they feel uncomfortable or you notice feedback (whistling sounds), don’t hesitate to contact your independent hearing care professional. Independent clinics are known for their personalised service, and your independent hearing care professional will be more than happy to make adjustments. If your hearing aids are uncomfortable enough to wear, do not wait for your next appointment; contact the clinic and see if they can book you in for an earlier appointment.
5. Practice Listening in Different Environments
Real-life hearing happens in a variety of places—not just quiet rooms. As you become more confident, challenge yourself to wear your hearing aids in more dynamic settings like:
- Family gatherings
- Local markets
- Restaurants
- Group fitness or community classes
Noticing how your hearing aids perform in these settings can help your provider fine-tune your devices to suit your lifestyle. It can be a good idea to write down what you notice about different environments, especially if something is too loud or soft. This makes it easy to provide feedback to your hearing care professional so they can adjust your hearing aid settings.
6. Use Communication Strategies
Even with the best hearing aids, background noise and overlapping conversations can still be tricky. To support your hearing in challenging situations:
- Face the person you’re speaking to
- Ask people to speak clearly (not necessarily louder)
- Choose quieter corners when dining out
- Reduce background noise where possible (like turning off the TV during a conversation)
These simple strategies make conversations more enjoyable and less tiring.
7. Stay Consistent With Follow-Up Appointments
Your initial fitting is just the beginning. After your fitting appointment, you usually have at least one follow-up appointment to fine-tune the settings based on your real-life experiences. These are also great opportunities to ask any questions that come up. It is important to attend these appointments to get the most out of your hearing aids.
8. Embrace Support From Others
Talking to family or friends about your new hearing aids can help them support your transition. Let them know what you’re getting used to and how they can help—whether that means speaking clearly or being patient as you adjust.
There are also many online communities and support groups where new hearing aid users share tips and encouragement. Knowing you’re not alone in this experience can make all the difference.
The First 30 Days is Just the Beginning
The first 30 days of using your new hearing aids are important, but this is just the beginning. You will continue to use and adapt to your hearing aids over the coming months and years. The pathway through these early stages is different for everyone, but it is important to remember that your independent hearing care professional is here to support you.
If you’re just starting your journey or considering hearing aids for the first time, know that you’re in good hands with our network of independent clinics. We’re here to walk with you every step of the way, offering local care that’s personal, professional and focused on your individual needs. If you are ready to start your hearing aid journey, we recommend you contact your local independent hearing care professional and book an appointment at your local independent hearing clinic. You can find your local clinic through the Find My Hearing Clinic – Clinic Locator