After the first few years, when a cochlear implant becomes a routine part of one’s daily life, sometimes people pay a minimum amount of attention to their hearing experience. To maintain your hearing and to enjoy it even more (Yes that’s possible!), CI recipients should ensure that they are performing recommended maintenance. Maintenance applies both to the person and to the sound processor as there are processes that may improve listening performance. Some items that are sometimes neglected (but should not be):

• Have a mapping appointment at the recommended timeframe
• Confirm that you are knowledgeable about the programs on your sound processor and the situations in which they can improve your listening outcomes
• Change the filter/microphone cover. If need be, instructions on this and other aspects of maintenance are on your CI company's website.
• Ensure that you have the spare parts you may need such as cable(s) and filters/microphone covers (depending on your specific sound processor). Also check on your supply of batteries. Rechargeable batteries, if applicable, do sometimes need to be replaced.
• Have your hearing outcomes tested in the non-implanted ear and ensure that your hearing aid is adjusted to work maximally for you.
• Consulting with your audiologist and/or surgeon as to whether a second implant may be beneficial.
• Update yourself on the availability of a new speech processor and whether you are eligible to upgrade your old one via your insurance plan. Talk to your CI manufacturer to ensure your manufacturer is considered an in-network provider. The CI company can help with that process.
• Learn about new voice-to-text apps.
• Check to determine if there are assistive listening devices (ALDs) that can improve your understanding and ease your listening efforts when watching TV, talking on the phone and listening to content through your computer.
• Consider the ways in which a remote microphone (RM) device might help you in understanding speech in noise and from afar.
• Trying to listen and hold a conversation on the phone (if you haven’t done so yet).
• Listen to music. Even if your early experience of listening to music with your CI was disappointing and you gave up, you may want to try again. With practice and the advanced technology available today, you may find that you do enjoy music.

To summarize

Keeping your CI equipment in good working order and making sure it operates optimally can make a difference in your hearing outcomes. Striving for the best bilateral hearing and taking advantage of advanced technologies available on your sound processor, as well as using assistive listening devices and speech-to-text apps, can add significantly to your quality of life. Challenge yourself by experiencing and participating in new hearing-related activities. Over the long term, consistent CI use and best maintenance practices (with newer technology), can provide you with improved hearing and communication.  

We wish you all good wishes for the New Year!