Most people are happy with their hearing aids: As reported by one recent survey, when speaking one-on-one, 91% of individuals who wear hearing aids are satisfied with their results. When talking about particular activities, 85% were satisfied in a group environment and watching TV, 78% while shopping, and 75% in a restaurant or on the phone.
These are some spectacularly positive numbers for a complex device such as a hearing aid. But that still leaves us wondering, what’s going on with the other 25%, 15%, and 9%. Why aren’t they as happy with their devices?
Individuals who use hearing aids have some good and some bad things to say about them. (We can easily fix the majority of the bad stuff and that’s the good news!)
For people who are pleased with their hearing aids, this article will make you even happier. And for people who are less excited, this article should help you deal with your concerns.
1. I feel more connected
People who have had their ability to hear revived with a hearing aid often feel reconnected with those around them. Their energy levels are higher. They feel like they can better engage and remain active.
They find their days filled with less frustration over their failure to hear. They feel less fatigued because they don’t have to work so hard to understand what others are saying.
For many people, a hearing aid allows them to feel more connected to their world and others, which is when they feel happiest.
2. They may sound distorted initially
Modern hearing aids are digital. They have lots of advanced settings for different hearing environments rather than simply making everything louder. Because of this, some individuals might be dissatisfied when they’re in a loud environment like a restaurant or talking on the phone but very satisfied when in a one-on-one conversation.
Hearing aids aren’t hard to learn to use. But getting used to them will take some practice.
3. I couldn’t find out how to use my hearing aid by myself
Hearing aids aren’t a “one-size-fits-all” solution as some individuals might think. People may leave the office with the misunderstanding that the sound won’t get any better, which could prompt them not to wear them.
Hearing is more complex than you may know. Modern Hearing aids include settings that target many levels and types of hearing loss.
Our qualified hearing specialists will undertake a hearing aid fitting in the office. When you get home, we highly recommend that you practice using your hearing aid with a friend in various settings.
Consult with us if you’re still having difficulty after a few weeks. We can probably make adjustments or help you better understand how the hearing aid works in environments where you’re having difficulty.
4. I had forgotten what I was missing without full hearing
Do you remember what a playful whisper sounds like? What about gentle laughter? What about soft music, singing birds, wind chimes, or the wind? Perhaps you can’t recollect what kids playing sounds like, or you’ve forgotten the sound of the delicate breathing of your significant other.
Hearing these little discreet sounds that were forgotten about is unexpectedly pleasing according to many individuals who get hearing aids. It means a great deal to have these sounds restored, it lets them once more experience the fullness and magnificence of the world around them.
5. It took some time to get used to my hearing aids
When you were a toddler and had to wear shoes for the first time, you likely thought that was uncomfortable. Now you may prefer to use them all the time. In a similar way, a new watch or a new hat might take some time to get accustomed to.
When something like a hearing aid is initially placed in your ear canal, your body is made to initially feel discomfort. Eventually, when the body recognizes that it’s not threatened, it will become used to and comfortable with the new device.
6. I wish I hadn’t put off so long to purchase my hearing aid
Individuals who put in the time to get used to their hearing aids wouldn’t go back. They normally regret waiting so long and they would never trade the benefits of being able to hear.
People who had patience and stuck with it were glad that they did. It’s made their life a whole lot more enriched.
Focus on improved hearing
Be patient and don’t quit, even if you aren’t yet having the best experience. It’s worth the effort and time. Before long, using the hearing aid will become automatic.
Whatever you’re experiencing with your hearing aid today, consult us about it. We can help you adjust your hearing aids in a faster and more efficient way. Experiencing all that life has to provide with restored hearing is worth the adjustment.