6 Ways To Easily Tell If Your Hearing Aid Is On When wearing hearing aids for the first time, there is a lot of uncertainty that goes along with it.  After all, it’s a change in your life. I recently got a new cell phone and it took me some time to learn how to use it. There were some frustrations that went along with it, but also some excitement. Once I learned how to use the features, the cell phone was going to make my life easier! It will be the same for you with your hearing aids. Some people worry a lot about their hearing aids and want to be sure they are doing everything right. Especially with older adults, handling an electronic device so small can cause some anxiety. One question that might arise is whether your hearing aid is actually working. 1.  Make sure the battery door is completely closed 2.  Take the hearing aid off and cup it in your hand. You (or a friend) should hear a high-pitched squeal coming from the hearing aid. 3.  With the hearing aid in your ear, rub your finger over the microphone. It is important to remember that when wearing a behind-the-ear hearing aid, the microphone is located at the top of your ear, not in the ear. When rubbing the microphone, you should hear a “scratching” or “static” noise in that ear. 4.  If you have multiple programs set in your hearing aid, press the program button or use your remote to change the programs while your hearing aids are in. Your hearing aid should make a sound to indicate the program change 5.  With your hearing aids out, turn the volume of your television or radio to a comfortable level for you. Leave the volume where it is and put your hearing aids in. You should notice a change in volume or “clearness” with your hearing aids in, and you may find yourself wanting to turn the volume down. 6.  Turn the hearing aid off and back on while leaving it in your ear. You should hear a start-up sound when it comes on (either a musical tune or spoken words).  You can also try leaving the battery door open until the hearing aid is installed and then shutting it. If you have checked all these items and you are still unsure, or don’t think your hearing aid is working, take it to your Audiologist. Don’t be discouraged. As you continue using your hearing aid, you will become more comfortable with handling it and understanding how it works.