If you don’t know much about computer programming you might take a class at Spartanburg Community College, but what do you do if you want to learn more about your hearing aids?
Being diagnosed with hearing loss and learning to use hearing aids can be quite an adjustment. Some people find that they can benefit from auditory training to help them understand how to properly use their devices.
Additionally, auditory training often includes perception training to help you better interpret sound and speech, as well as counseling to help you learn coping skills for managing hearing loss.
Benefits of Auditory Training
Studies have shown that formal instruction in hearing aid and accessory management leads to an increased usage of the device. It’s simple, really. When people use their hearing aids more, they experience more of the benefits they have to offer.
Auditory training can also help restore pathways in the brain that interpret sound. Hearing loss is often gradual. By the time some people realize they have a problem and seek treatment, their brain and ears aren’t communicating as well as they once did. Through training, people with hearing loss can engage in activities to improve this connection through activities like:
- Exercises that help you to better interpret sound or speech with vowel and consonant training
- Learning to interpret visual cues that help you follow conversations
- Learning to interpret sounds you have never heard
- Modifying your environment in ways that will help you communicate
Explore Your Feelings About Hearing Loss
Sometimes when we talk about hearing loss we can focus on the physical problem and overlook the emotional component. However, there is a reason why people with untreated hearing loss experience higher levels of depression, anger and anxiety.
When you have hearing loss you can feel like you are struggling to connect in many different aspects of your life. It can be harder to communicate with friends and loved ones or follow what’s being said during work meetings. It can hurt relationships and lead you to feel like you are missing out and not enjoying life as much as you did before.
Even after getting treatment for hearing loss there still might be a period where you are adjusting to your new normal. Professional counseling can help you to process your feelings and manage your expectations for your hearing aids. Many hearing aid users also find in-person and online support groups beneficial.
At Spartanburg & Greer Ear, Nose & Throat our goal is to provide you with the best hearing care and support we can as you navigate this journey. If you have any additional questions or wish to schedule an appointment with one of our hearing experts, please don’t hesitate to call today.
