Useful tips for encouraging the use of hearing aids

Information for carers and family members

Hold the ear moulds in your hand for a couple of minutes before trying to insert them. This makes them warmer and therefore less of a shock when inserted. It also makes them softer, easier to put in and more comfortable.
You can also try inserting the aids before the individual waking up, so that they are already in place. Never leave the person alone with hearing aids if you think they may put them in their mouth.
Try encouraging the insertion of the hearing aids as part of the individual’s daily routine. Put the hearing aids in when they get up and take them out when they go to bed. It will become normal for them to wear hearing aids whenever they are awake.
Slowly build up the length of time that the individual wears their hearing aids. Depending on how they take to the aids, you could start with just a couple of minutes several times a day. If this becomes difficult and the aids are being taken out within seconds, have a break and try again later or the next day when you are both feeling more relaxed.
Have something ready to distract the individual, such as their favourite TV program.
The individual may remove their hearing aids if they are uncomfortable or painful. If you notice they are removing their hearing aids after loud noises or because their ears hurt, check that the settings on the hearing aids are correct and talk to the audiologist.
It may also be useful to meet others with hearing aids so that the individual can see people wearing aids.
Ear moulds also come in different colours and can have pictures, logos or glitter inside the plastic. Having a choice may encourage increased use of a hearing aid. If the aids are being well used, offer a reward to encourage further use.