Holiday get-togethers all across Louisiana can be loud, boisterous events in the best possible way. Kids running through the house, cousins catching up over food, the TV turned up for the game.
If you wear hearing aids, though, all that sound can be overwhelming. And if your devices aren’t working quite right, it can turn a joyful visit into a stressful one.
This guide walks you through simple troubleshooting tips so you can stay engaged all season. When these quick fixes don’t solve the problem, Associated Hearing’s team is here to help. Booking before the holiday rush means you won’t miss a moment.
Give Your Hearing Aids a “Holiday Check”
A few minutes of prep can prevent a lot of frustration.
Check Power and Batteries
Many “dead” hearing aids are really just power problems. If you use disposable batteries, make sure you have extras on hand. If you use rechargeables, confirm they clicked into the charger correctly.
Clean What You can Safely See
Wax and debris can block the tiny microphone and receiver openings. If your provider showed you how to brush away visible wax, change wax guards, or wipe the surface with a soft cloth, do that now. Never poke into openings with pins, toothpicks, or cotton swabs. If you suspect a wax problem inside your ear, our team offers safe, professional earwax removal.
Review Your Programs and App
Many newer hearing aids offer special programs for noisy environments. Practice switching between programs, adjusting volume, and using your phone app before your holiday calendar really gets going. Not sure how? We can walk you through these features or help you to create custom settings that match your holiday plans.
Quick Fixes for Common Problems
No sound at all?
Make sure the hearing aid is on, replace the battery, check that the battery door closes fully, and inspect for visible wax. If you still hear nothing, the issue is likely internal. At Associated Hearing, we’re able to help diagnose problems that home troubleshooting can’t fix.
Sound too soft or muffled?
Reinsert the aids to ensure proper placement, check your volume and program settings, and look for wax buildup. If the problem has developed slowly, your hearing itself may have changed. An updated hearing test and reprogramming can help bring clarity back. Unlike big-box retailers, we don’t just sell devices, we provide ongoing care as your needs evolve.
Whistling or squealing?
Feedback happens when sound escapes and is picked up again by the microphone in the hearing aid. Begin by removing the aid and reinserting the firmly. If that doesn’t help, lower the volume slightly. If feedback is new or happens often, you need a fit adjustment. If this sounds like an issue you or a loved one is facing, book an appointment to check both your hearing and devices to find the cause. Most adjustments take just a few minutes once diagnosed.
Distorted or crackly sound?
Replace the battery first. If you’ve been out in Louisiana humidity, open the battery door and let the aids air out. Moisture buildup is one of the most common reasons hearing aids need service. If distortion continues after drying, bring them in for evaluation.
Make Gatherings More Hearing Friendly
Your environment matters, too. Try these strategies:
- Pick your seat on purpose. Choose a spot away from the kitchen, speakers, or TV and closer to the center of the table.
- Ask for music to be turned down during the conversation. Loud playlists make listening much harder.
- Keep the lights up. Good lighting helps you catch facial expressions and lip movements.
- Break into smaller groups. Move to a quieter room to talk instead of following three conversations at once.
Most families across the state are more than happy to make these adjustments once they understand how it may help you stay part of the fun.
When to Call Associated Hearing
If you’ve tried these basics and your hearing aids still aren’t working right, it’s time for expert help.
Here’s what makes Associated Hearing different: we’re locally owned, have served the greater New Orleans area for decades, and we pride ourselves on making patients feel like they’re a part of the family.
To us, you’re not a transaction, you’re someone we’ll see at church, the grocery store, or along the parade route. That kind of relationship matters when you need help fast during the holidays.
A holiday tune up can take as little as half an hour and can include professional cleaning, fit checks, programming updates or anything to make sure you’re ready for your next holiday gathering.
–You shouldn’t have to work hard to keep up with dinner conversation. Use these troubleshooting tips for quick fixes, but don’t stop there. Book your appointment today with one of our local offices in Metairie or Covington today to make sure you don’t miss a carol, joke, or conversation this holiday season.