Most individuals are happy with their hearing aids: According to one recent survey, when speaking one-on-one, 91% of individuals who use hearing aids are satisfied with their experience. When talking about specific activities, 85% were satisfied in a group setting 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 like a hearing aid. But we have to ask, what are the other 9%, 15%, and 25% experiencing? Why aren’t they as satisfied with their devices?
Let’s discover the good and the bad things people have to say about their hearing aid experience. (The good news, most of the bad things can be easily fixed.)
For individuals who are pleased with their hearing aids, this article will make you even happier. And for individuals who are less excited, this article should help you deal with your concerns.
1. I feel more connected
There’s frequently a reconnection with friends and loved ones for people who have had their ability to hear restored with hearing aids. Their energy levels are increased. They participate and stay more active.
They find their days filled with less discouragement over their inability to hear. Because they don’t need to struggle to hear what people are saying, they feel less exhausted.
People are usually happiest when they feel connected with others and their world, and for many using a hearing aid makes this possible.
2. Initially, sounds seemed distorted
Modern hearing aids are digital. They have many advanced settings for different hearing environments rather than simply making everything louder. Because of this, some individuals may be dissatisfied when they’re in a noisy setting like a restaurant or talking on the phone but very satisfied when in a one-on-one conversation.
It’s not difficult to learn to use a hearing aid. But they do take a little practice getting used to them.
3. I needed assistance finding out how to use my hearing aid
Hearing aids aren’t a “one-size-fits-all” solution as many individuals might presume. If it doesn’t sound good when they leave the office they might get the misconception that this is as good as it gets and decide it’s easier not to use the hearing aid.
Hearing is more complex than you may know. Modern Hearing aids incorporate settings that target many levels and types of hearing loss.
When you’re in the office, we will do a total hearing aid fitting. It’s strongly suggested that you practice using your hearing aid by chatting with a friend initially.
If it still doesn’t sound great after a few weeks, consult us. We can help you have a better knowledge of how your functions work and we can most likely make some fine adjustments for you.
4. I had forgotten what I was missing out on without full hearing
Can you recollect what gentle laughter or a soft whisper sounds like? How about soft music, birds singing, wind chimes, or the wind? Maybe you’ve forgotten how it makes you feel to hear the gentle breath of a significant other sitting close beside you or youngsters playing outside.
Hearing these little discreet sounds that were forgotten about is unexpectedly pleasing according to many individuals who get hearing aids. It means so much to have these sounds restored, it lets them again experience the fullness and grandeur of the world around them.
5. Becoming accustomed to my new hearing aid took some getting used to.
You probably weren’t at first comfortable with your first pair of shoes when you were a toddler. But now, of course, you’re completely comfortable with them. In a similar way, a new watch or a new hat might take a bit of 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. But pretty soon, the body realizes there is no threat and welcomes the device as an extension of the body.
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 would never go back. They normally regret putting off for so long and they would never give up the benefits of healthy hearing.
Of those now wearing them who struggled at first, say they’re so glad they persevered. It’s made their life so much more enriched.
Improved hearing should be the focus
Be patient and don’t give up, even if you’re not yet having the ideal experience. It’s worth the time and effort. It will become automatic before too long.
Whatever you’re experiencing with your hearing aid today, talk to us about it. We can help you fine-tune your hearing aids in a faster and more effective way. The adjustment is worth it when you get the opportunity to experience all that life has to offer.