For better hearing with your new Cochlear™ sound processor, audiologists recommend that you wear it as often as possible. Read below to learn why that’s so important.
“At this early stage of your journey, wearing your sound processor as much as possible is key. Research suggests that wearing the device at least 10 hours a day helps to maximize benefit,”1– Jen C, Clinical Audiologist at Cochlear.
Why is it so important?
Consistent wearing of your sound processor is key to unlocking the full potential of your hearing experience. This is because your brain needs to adapt to new sounds—this doesn’t happen overnight. The good news is brain plasticity means your brain can adapt. By wearing your device, along with encouragement, support and guidance, you’ll bring your hearing goals closer.
The challenges to wearing your device constantly are real (especially since you’re not used to your device yet). We will share tips below for better hearing with your sound processor, to overcome these barriers so that you become more comfortable.
Managing your comfort level
Wearing something on your head all day can feel unfamiliar at first, possibly even uncomfortable. Like if you start wearing glasses, it may take time before your body gets used to these new feelings. Because the sound is new your brain focuses on it. Over time these sounds and sensations will become more routine. Remember, to be patient with yourself.
Note: If you find this discomfort persisting, talk to your clinician, especially if you notice any redness, irritation, broken skin or indentations, particularly at the coil/magnet site.
What is listening fatigue?
Are you feeling tired more than usual? Or just finding yourself getting irritable or frustrated from all the new sounds? This is called “listening fatigue.” For additional tips to help with this, visit: Nomiki’s seven steps to reduce and manage listening fatigue.
If you are straining to hear, take a short break to relax and take a rest from intensive listening whenever you can. Stepping away and into a quiet place without any background noise helps to reduce overstimulation.
“Remember, the goal is to wear your sound processor for as long as you can. If taking a five-minute break helps you wear it for another two hours—do it! But have the goal of building up your tolerance. Talk to your clinician about strategies to achieve a whole day’s usage.”2– Heather O, clinical audiologist at Cochlear.
Each day will bring new experiences, and some will be more challenging than others. Your journey with your cochlear implant is unique to you, and so will be the ways in which you find comfort and confidence with your device. We’re here to support you every step of the way.
For more resources on adjusting to your new sound processor, visit our website.
- The content of this guideline is intended as a guide for information purposes only and does not replace or remove clinical judgment or the professional care and duty necessary for each specific recipient case. Clinical care carried out in accordance with this guideline should be provided within the context of locally available resources, expertise, and standards of care and practice.
- The content of this guideline is intended as a guide for information purposes only and does not replace or remove clinical judgment or the professional care and duty necessary for each specific recipient case. Clinical care carried out in accordance with this guideline should be provided within the context of locally available resources, expertise, and standards of care and practice.
