Adapting to new hearing aids: more than a technical issue

The Nordic Welfare Centre recently organised a webinar featuring the researchers Natascha Sofie Søndergaard and Niels-Henrik M. Hansen from CFD Research and Development in Denmark, on the theme of Transitional Sound and the Hidden Work of Hearing Impairment.

The webinar focused on what happens when people switch to new hearing aids. Although the technology often improves hearing, the transition can involve a period of uncertainty. Research shows that even experienced hearing aid users may feel disoriented, vulnerable or socially disconnected before they adjust to the new sound.

Based on interviews with 24 hearing aid users in Denmark, the concept of ‘Transitional Sound’ was introduced. It was described as a psychosocial process that occurs between old and new hearing aids, where not only hearing but also the sense of orientation, self-trust and social connection can be affected.

During the webinar, the researchers discussed why this transition can be difficult, how it is experienced and how it can be understood theoretically. A central theme was the invisible work that people do to cope with new sound environments, often referred to as “hearing labour”.

The researchers also highlighted that hearing loss can be perceived as a private matter, and that the work of managing it often takes place out of sight. They further noted that there can be a difference between expectations and experiences, where new technology is often expected to lead to immediate improvement, which does not always align with users’ experiences.

The findings point to a need to further develop support and expectations in hearing rehabilitation, with greater attention to users’ experiences during this transitional period.

The webinar was relevant for audiologists, hearing care professionals, rehabilitation specialists, researchers, decision-makers, as well as individuals with hearing impairment and their relatives.