Our Better Communication Classes for Hearing Aid Success

Getting new hearing aids opens up a world of better hearing, but learning to use them effectively takes time and practice. Our Better Communication Classes at Audiology & Hearing Services of Charlotte support you through this journey, helping you develop the skills and confidence to communicate more effectively.

Understanding Your Hearing Aids

Your hearing aids are sophisticated devices designed to help you hear better in various situations. Modern hearing aids like the Oticon Intent, Resound Nexia, and Phonak Infinio adapt automatically to your listening environment, but understanding how to control and maintain them ensures you get the best performance possible.

During our classes, we focus on practical aspects like:

• Making adjustments for different listening environments, such as restaurants, outdoor spaces, or group conversations
• Proper cleaning and maintenance, including changing wax guards and cleaning microphone ports
• Managing batteries or charging, with guidance on maximizing battery life and establishing charging routines
• Getting comfortable with controls and settings, from volume adjustments to program changes
• Troubleshooting common issues, such as feedback or connectivity challenges
• Understanding Bluetooth features for connecting to phones and other devices
• Using smartphone apps to personalize your hearing experience

We demonstrate proper insertion and removal techniques to ensure comfort and optimal sound delivery. You'll learn about the different parts of your hearing aids, from receivers to microphones, and how each component contributes to better hearing.

Our audiologists use Real Ear Measurement to verify your hearing aid settings, ensuring they're programmed specifically for your hearing loss. We'll show you how different programs work and when to use them, helping you feel confident managing your devices in any situation.

We also cover care and maintenance schedules, including when to schedule professional cleanings and what daily maintenance you should perform at home. With proper care, your hearing aids will provide reliable performance for years to come.

Family Support Makes a Difference

We teach families how to advocate for their loved ones in various situations, from doctor's appointments to restaurant outings. This support system helps hearing aid users feel more confident and connected in their daily activities.

Hearing loss affects the whole family. When family members understand how hearing loss impacts communication, they can better support their loved ones. Our classes welcome family participation, creating opportunities to:

• Learn about hearing loss together
• Practice effective communication techniques
• Develop strategies that work at home
• Improve daily interactions
• Build stronger relationships through better understanding

Common Family Communication Challenges

During our classes, we address common situations and provide practical solutions that work for everyone involved. Many families face similar challenges when a loved one has hearing loss:

• Repeating themselves frequently, which can lead to frustration
• Speaking louder than necessary, which doesn't always help
• Having conversations across rooms or from different floors
• Dealing with TV or radio volume disagreements
• Missing important parts of family gatherings or celebrations
• Feeling left out of quick conversations or casual remarks
• Misunderstandings due to mishearing important information

Creating a Supportive Home Environment

We've seen how family involvement in the hearing care journey leads to better outcomes and more consistent hearing aid use. When everyone understands and participates in communication strategies, it creates a more inclusive and supportive environment for everyone.

Small changes in how families communicate can make a big difference:

• Establishing face-to-face communication habits
• Setting up rooms with better lighting for lip reading
• Reducing background noise during conversations
• Creating designated quiet spaces for important discussions
• Using visual cues and gestures when helpful
• Planning seating arrangements that support better hearing
• Being patient and maintaining a positive attitude

Practical Communication Strategies for Every Situation

Hearing aids provide the foundation for better hearing, but knowing how to use them effectively in different environments makes a significant difference in your daily life. Here are the strategies we teach in our Better Communication Classes:

Restaurant and Social Settings

• Requesting tables away from kitchens, entrances, and large groups
• Positioning yourself with your back to noise sources
• Using walls or booths to block background sounds
• Taking advantage of your hearing aids' directional microphones
• Advocating for quieter sections when making reservations

Phone and Video Calls

• Setting up direct streaming from smartphones to hearing aids
• Positioning the phone properly for optimal sound pickup
• Using speakerphone or headset options when appropriate
• Managing video call settings for better audio quality
• Understanding your hearing aids' phone programs

Face-to-Face Communication

• Maintaining eye contact for better understanding
• Reading facial expressions and body language
• Asking for clarification when needed
• Being honest about your hearing needs
• Using good lighting to aid visual cues

Group Conversations

• Arranging seating for optimal hearing
• Taking breaks to prevent listening fatigue
• Using hand signals to indicate hearing difficulties
• Managing turn-taking in conversations
• Staying engaged even in challenging situations

Making Technology Work for You

Modern hearing aid technology works seamlessly with many devices to enhance your hearing experience:

Streaming Solutions

• Direct TV streaming through devices like the TV Connector with AirStream for Phonak users
• Bluetooth connectivity for music and audio from smartphones
• Remote microphone options for better hearing at a distance
• Wireless accessories for specific listening situations

Phone Technology

• Compatibility with both iPhones and Android devices
• Apps for hearing aid control and customization
• Video call optimization features
• Built-in telecoil options for loop systems

Personal Alert Systems

• Doorbell notifications sent to hearing aids
• Smoke and carbon monoxide detector alerts
• Phone ring indicators
• Weather alert systems

Smart Home Integration

• Voice assistant compatibility
• Home automation controls
• Security system notifications
• Intercom system connections

Our audiologists stay current with the latest technology and can help you choose and set up the right combination of devices for your lifestyle. We'll show you how to get the most from features like the Oticon Intent's 4D Sensor technology or the Phonak Infinio's advanced connectivity options.

We also understand that technology should simplify, not complicate, your life. That's why we focus on teaching you to use these tools confidently, making sure you're comfortable with any new technology before adding more options.

Supporting Young Hearing Aid Users

Children with hearing aids have unique needs. Our specialized program includes:

• Age-appropriate education about hearing aids
• Training for parents and caregivers
• School success strategies
• Social confidence building
• Coordination with teachers

Flexible Learning Options

We understand everyone's schedule is different, so we offer:

• Small group sessions
• Individual appointments when needed
• Virtual options for some components
• Family member participation
• Ongoing support between sessions

Making Sure Your Hearing Aids Work Their Best

Using Real Ear Measurement technology, we verify that your hearing aids are programmed optimally for your specific hearing needs. This scientific approach helps us make precise adjustments based on your experiences and challenges.

Getting Started with Better Communication

Our Better Communication Classes help you get the most from your hearing aids while developing valuable communication skills. Whether you're new to hearing aids or looking to improve your current experience, we're here to support your journey to better hearing.

Call us at 704-412-7975 to learn about our upcoming Better Communication Classes. Our audiologists will help you choose a schedule that works for you and puts you on the path to more confident communication.