Most people are happy with their hearing aids: 91% of hearing aid wearers are pleased with the hearing aid experience when speaking one-on-one, according to a recent survey. When speaking about specific 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 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 explore the good and the bad things individuals have to say about their hearing aid experience. (The good news, the majority of the bad stuff can be easily fixed.)
For people who are pleased with their hearing aids, this article will make you even more happy. And for individuals who are less thrilled, this article should help you deal with your concerns.
1. I feel more connected
There’s often a reconnection with friends and loved ones for individuals who have had their ability to hear restored with hearing aids. They have more vitality. They feel like they can better engage and stay active.
Their inability to hear isn’t as frustrating anymore. They feel less exhausted because they don’t have to work so hard to understand what others are saying.
People are often happiest when they feel connected with others and their world, and for many wearing a hearing aid makes that possible.
2. They may sound distorted initially
Contemporary hearing aids are digital. They don’t simply make sounds louder, they have lots of settings to help you hear best in a variety of places. That’s why people might be so satisfied in a one-on-one conversation but dissatisfied in a restaurant or on the phone.
Hearing aids aren’t difficult to learn to use. But getting used to them will take some practice.
3. I needed assistance finding out how to use my hearing aid
A common misconception about hearing aids is that it’s a one-size-fits-all solution. People may leave the office with the misunderstanding that the sound can’t get any better, which could prompt them not to use them.
You might not even recognize how complex hearing loss is. Hearing aids are designed to target numerous types and degrees of hearing loss by transforming how sound goes into the ear.
Our skilled hearing specialists will undertake a hearing aid fitting in the office. It’s strongly advised that you practice using your hearing aid by talking with a friend at first.
Talk with us if you’re still having difficulty after a few weeks. We can help you get a better understanding of how your functions work and we can probably make some fine adjustments for you.
4. Without healthy hearing, you forgot what you were missing out on
Can you recall what gentle laughter or a soft whisper sounds like? How about soft music, birds singing, wind chimes, or the wind? Maybe you’ve forgotten what it’s like to hear the gentle breath of a significant other sitting close beside you or youngsters playing outside.
Many individuals who get a hearing aid share that it’s a nice surprise to suddenly hear these small things that they had forgotten about. Having these sounds restored means the full magnificence of the world around can once again be experienced by people who get hearing aids.
5. It took a while to get accustomed to my hearing aids
You most likely weren’t at first comfortable with your first pair of shoes when you were a toddler. But now, of course, you’re totally 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 designed to initially feel uncomfortable. But pretty soon, the body realizes there’s no threat and accepts the device as an extension of the body.
6. I wish I hadn’t put off so long to invest in my hearing aid
Individuals who took the time to get used to their hearing aids wouldn’t go back. They wouldn’t trade all the benefits of hearing, and they frequently regret putting off for so long to get a hearing aid.
Of those now wearing them who had trouble initially, say they’re so thankful they persevered. Their lives have become so much more enriched.
Pay attention to improved hearing
Be patient and don’t quit, even if you aren’t yet having the best experience. It’s worth the time and effort. It will become automatic before too long.
Whatever you’re experiencing with your hearing aid today, consult us about it. We can help you fine-tune your hearing aids in a faster and more efficient way. Experiencing all that life has to offer with restored hearing is worth the patients.