Learning to hear again is a big challenge for new users of amplification, if you haven't had proper counseling to help you through this adjustment period. For many, this time can be very overwhelming. With patience and determination, your Hearing Instrument Specialist can help you through this tough time.

For some individuals, the noises that they haven't heard in years can be bothersome. It is, however, very important for cognitive function for your brain to start processing these unfamiliar noises and working on deciphering what sounds are relevant.

Oftentimes, people with hearing loss develop poor listening skills. This occurs because hearing becomes so difficult that they just give up and "turn off" the speaker. Listening requires attention, concentration and interest.

The new wearer of amplification must commit to making the effort to hear again. The brain will eventually, in most cases, relearn these new sounds.

Simply purchasing new hearing aids will not insure improved communication. It is important to remember that hearing aids are not a quick-fix purchase.

"Blindness separates us from things - but Deafness separates us from people." - Helen Keller

Kristi Murphy A.A.S., HIS at Post Falls Hearing Aid Center, located at 780 N. Cecil Road, Suite 103, Post Falls, or at (208) 457-8878.