Most individuals are pleased with their hearing aids: As reported by one recent survey, when speaking one-on-one, 91% of people who use hearing aids are happy with their results. When processing results with specific activities, 75% were satisfied in a restaurant or on the phone, 78% were satisfied while in the grocery store, and 85% were satisfied watching TV or in a group.
These are some dramatically positive numbers for a complex device like a hearing aid. But we have to question, what are the other 9%, 15%, and 25% feeling? Why aren’t they as happy with their devices?
Let’s explore the good and the bad things individuals have to say about their hearing aid results. (The good news, the majority of the bad stuff can be easily fixed.)
For individuals who are happy with their hearing aids, this article will make you even more happy. If you aren’t as satisfied with it as wish you were, we’ll investigate what to do about it.
1. I feel more connected
There’s frequently 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 participate and stay more active.
They find their days filled with less discouragement over their inability to hear. They feel less tired because they don’t have to struggle to understand what others are saying.
For many individuals, a hearing aid allows them to feel more connected to their world and others, which is when they feel happiest.
2. They might sound distorted initially
Hearing aids nowadays are digital. They don’t simply make sounds louder, they have lots of settings to help you hear best in a variety of places. 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.
Hearing aids aren’t complicated to learn to use. But getting used to them will take some practice.
3. I couldn’t learn how to use my hearing aid on my own
Hearing aids aren’t a “one-size-fits-all” solution as some individuals might presume. If it doesn’t sound good when they leave the office they might think 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 realize. Modern Hearing aids have settings that target many levels and types of hearing loss.
When you’re in the office, we will do a total hearing aid fitting. When you get home, we recommend that you practice using your hearing aid with a friend in a variety of settings.
Consult with us if you’re still having trouble after a few weeks. We can help you have a better understanding of how your functions work and we can likely make some fine adjustments for you.
4. I had forgotten what I was missing without full hearing
Do you remember what a playful whisper sounds like? How about gentle laughter? What about the wind, wind chimes, birds singing, or quiet music? Perhaps you can’t recollect what children playing sounds like, or you’ve forgotten the sound of the delicate breathing of your significant other.
Many individuals who get a hearing aid communicate that it’s a pleasing surprise to suddenly hear these small things that they had forgotten about. Having these sounds restored means the full brilliance 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 likely weren’t at first comfortable with your first pair of shoes when you were a baby. But now, of course, you’re totally comfortable with them. Similarly, a new watch or a new hat might take a bit of time to get accustomed to.
Our bodies are designed to feel discomfort when something seems out of place, like a hearing aid going into your outer ear. Eventually, when the body knows that it’s not threatened, it will become used to and comfortable with the new device.
6. I wish I hadn’t waited so long to get my hearing aid
Individuals would never go back to having hearing loss if they were persistent and took the time to become accustomed to them. They typically regret putting off for so long and they would never give up the benefits of being able to hear.
Among those now wearing them who had trouble at first, say they’re so glad they persevered. It’s made their life a great deal more enriched.
Pay attention to improved hearing
If you aren’t having the best experience with your hearing aid, don’t give up. It’s worth the effort and time. Before long, wearing the hearing aid will become second nature.
Whatever you’re experiencing with your hearing aid today, talk with us about it. We can typically offer advice on how to get used to your hearing aids faster. The patience is worth it when you get the opportunity to experience all that life has to offer.
