Buying hearing aids is just the first step towards solving your hearing woes!

While choosing a hearing aid, one of the major considerations is whether it will suit your lifestyle requirements and the kind of environment you live in. Adjusting to hearing aids takes a while. The affected individual will need to follow up with the audiologist to get the hearing aids tuned according to his/her requirements.

This is also the time when a new user will have questions about using hearing aids effectively. We’ve tried to cover most of them below.

Answering FAQs For New Users Of Hearing Aids!

Let’s look at some of the most common questions new hearing aid users might have!

#1. How long do hearing aids last?

On average, modern hearing aids last between 4 to 6 years. With proper care and regular servicing, some high-end models can even function well for up to 7 years. However, most users choose to upgrade every 3-4 years to take advantage of the latest technology, such as rechargeable batteries, Bluetooth streaming, AI-based sound processing, and improved speech clarity in noisy environments.
Centre for Hearing® keeps you informed about technological advances and can advise when an upgrade might benefit your hearing experience and quality of life. Click here to learn more.

#2. How do I get used to wearing hearing aids?

Begin by wearing your hearing aids at home for short periods daily. As you feel comfortable, extend the wearing time and try them in busier, louder settings. Your brain typically adapts to these new sounds within 2-3 weeks. Follow these tips to adjust faster.

#3. Can I wear my hearing aids while sleeping or showering?

It’s best to take them out before going to bed, having a shower, or going for a swim. Even though some hearing aids can handle moisture and sweat quite well, they’re still not built for getting completely soaked. Learn more about waterproof hearing aids.

#4. How do I turn my hearing aid on and off?

For battery-powered hearing aids, simply close the battery door to switch them on and open it to turn them off. With rechargeable models, you can press the push button or place them in the charger to power down.

#5. Should I open the battery door at night?

Yes. This prevents battery drain and helps reduce moisture buildup inside the device.

#6. Can I connect my hearing aids to my phone or TV?

Absolutely! Most of today’s hearing aids come with Bluetooth built-in, so you can easily pair them with your phone, TV, or tablet. Many also let you control settings and adjust volume through handy apps like myPhonak, the Signia App, or Oticon Companion. Click here to explore Bluetooth hearing aids.

#7. Can I adjust the settings or volume myself?

Definitely! You can easily change the volume and switch between different listening programs using either a button on your hearing aid or through your smartphone app. For more detailed adjustments though, it’s still best to visit your audiologist who can fine-tune everything properly.

#8. What does the button on my hearing aid do?

The button can serve different purposes depending on how your audiologist has set it up. It might control the volume, switch between different listening programs for various environments like quiet rooms or busy restaurants, or it could be turned off completely if your audiologist decided you don’t need those manual controls.

#9. How do I know if my battery is inserted correctly?

Make sure the flat side with the “+” symbol faces upward when you put it in. You’ll usually hear a little startup sound or jingle once the battery is properly seated and you’ve put your hearing aid in your ear.

For more, Read Ways to Take Care of Hearing Aids.

#10. How do I dispose of old batteries?

Don’t just throw them in the regular rubbish. Take your old batteries to electronics stores or drop them off at designated hazardous waste collection points where they can be recycled properly.

#11. How do I know when my battery is low?

You’ll hear a soft beeping sound. Rechargeable aids may show a low-battery indicator via LED or app alert.

#12. How do I clean my hearing aid?

Give them a gentle wipe with a soft cloth every day to keep them clean. Use the little brush that came with your hearing aids to clear out any debris from the smaller openings. For more detailed cleaning of wax filters or vents, check your user manual or pop into our clinic for guidance.

For more detailed care tips, read our guide: 4 Ways to Take Care of Hearing Aids.

#13. How often should I clean my hearing aids?

Ideally, you should do it once a day; especially in the morning before wearing them. This prevents debris build-up and ensures sound clarity.

#14. Will others notice I’m wearing hearing aids?

Probably not! Today’s hearing aids are incredibly discreet and well-designed. Options like Invisible-in-the-Canal (IIC) and Receiver-in-the-Canal (RIC) are so small that most people won’t even realise you’re wearing them. Explore the range of invisible hearing aids we offer.

 

#15. Can I wear glasses with my BTE or RIC hearing aids? 

Yes, you can. Just remove your glasses gently using both hands to avoid dislodging the hearing aids.

#16.  My hearing aid whistles or squeals. Is this normal?

A little whistle when you’re putting them in is perfectly normal. However, if you’re getting constant feedback or whistling sounds, it usually means they’re not fitting quite right, there might be some wax blocking the ear canal, or the settings need tweaking. If the problem keeps happening, drop by your nearest Centre for Hearing® or give us a call at 9811227269.

#17. How do I tell left from right?

It’s easy once you know the colour code! Red is for your right ear and blue is for your left ear. You’ll usually find these coloured markers either inside the battery door or somewhere on the hearing aid itself.

#18. What is a wax filter and how often should I change it?

A wax filter protects your device from earwax. Change it when it appears clogged anywhere between weekly to every few months depending on your earwax production.

#19. My hearing aid is ‘dead’. What should I check before visiting the clinic?

#20. How much do hearing aids cost?

Hearing aid prices in India typically range from ₹20,000 to ₹3,00,000, depending on which brand you choose and what technology and features you need. At Centre for Hearing®, we offer multi-brand options, free trials, and EMI plans so you can find the right device that works for both your hearing and your budget.

Download ultimate price list.

#21. Do you offer invisible hearing aids?

Absolutely! We stock Invisible-in-the-Canal (IIC) and Completely-in-Canal (CIC) hearing aids that are practically invisible once they’re fitted. They’re perfect for anyone who wants a really discreet hearing solution but doesn’t want to sacrifice sound quality.

#22. Are rechargeable hearing aids available?

Yes, we have a great selection of rechargeable models that come with compact charging cases. Most will run all day long from a single overnight charge. It’s much easier than constantly buying and swapping out batteries, plus it’s kinder to the planet too.

Learn more on why you should go for rechargeable devices.

#23. What kind of support can I expect from Centre for Hearing®?

#24. Is EMI, insurance, or a protection plan available?

Yes, we’ve got flexible EMI options to spread the cost and make your hearing aids more manageable budget-wise. Unfortunately, most health insurance policies in India don’t cover hearing aids yet. However, Centre for Hearing® does offer a protection plan that covers you if your hearing aids get stolen, lost, or damaged in a robbery, which gives you that extra bit of peace of mind.

 

Learn more about hearing aid protection here.

#25. When should I get my hearing aid serviced?

We recommend a service check every 6 months or earlier if you notice reduced sound clarity or physical wear. If you have more questions, do not hesitate to call us on **+91 9811227269** to speak with an expert audiologist or find a clinic near you.