Most individuals are pleased with their hearing aids: Based upon one recent survey, when talking one-on-one, 91% of individuals who use hearing aids are happy with their experience. When processing results with particular activities, 75% were satisfied in a restaurant or on the phone, 78% were satisfied while in the supermarket, and 85% were satisfied watching TV or in a group.
For a sophisticated device like a hearing aid, these are some incredibly positive results. But we have to ask, what are the other 9%, 15%, and 25% feeling? Why aren’t they as happy with their devices?
People with hearing aids have some good and some bad things to say about them. (We can easily fix the majority of the bad things and that’s the good news!)
For people who are pleased with their hearing aids, this article will make you even more happy. And for individuals who are less excited, this article should help you address your concerns.
1. I feel more connected
People who have had their ability to hear revived with a hearing aid frequently feel reconnected with people around them. Their energy levels are higher. They feel like they can better engage and stay active.
Their failure to hear isn’t as frustrating anymore. Because they don’t have to struggle to hear what people are saying, they feel less exhausted.
For many people, a hearing aid helps them feel more connected to their world and others, which is when they feel happiest.
2. They may sound distorted initially
Hearing aids today are digital. They have lots of 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 loud environment like a restaurant or talking on the phone but quite satisfied when in a one-on-one conversation.
It isn’t hard to learn to use a hearing aid. But getting used to them will take a little practice.
3. I needed assistance finding out how to use my hearing aid
A typical misunderstanding about hearing aids is that it’s a one-size-fits-all solution. People might leave the office with the mistake that the sound can’t get any better, which could prompt them not to use them.
You may not even understand how complex hearing loss can be. Hearing aids are designed to target numerous types and degrees of hearing loss by changing how sound goes into the ear.
Our skilled hearing specialists will undertake a hearing aid fitting in the office. It’s strongly suggested that you practice using your hearing aid by chatting with a friend initially.
Consult with us if you’re still having trouble after a few weeks. We can help you have a better knowledge of how your functions work and we can likely make some fine adjustments for you.
4. Without full hearing, you forgot what you were missing out on
Can you recall what gentle laughter or a soft whisper sounds like? What about soft music, singing birds, wind chimes, or the wind? Perhaps you’ve forgotten what it’s like to hear the delicate breath of a significant other sitting close beside you or youngsters playing outside.
Hearing these little subtle sounds that were forgotten about is unexpectedly pleasing according to many individuals who get hearing aids. Having these sounds restored means the full brilliance of the world around can once again be experienced by individuals who get hearing aids.
5. It took some time to get used to my hearing aids
You probably 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. Similarly, a new watch or a new hat might take a bit of time to get used to.
Our bodies are designed to feel uncomfortable when something feels out of place, such as 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 would have purchased my hearing aids sooner
Individuals who put in the time to get used to their hearing aids wouldn’t go back. They wouldn’t trade all the advantages of hearing, and they often regret putting off for so long to invest in a hearing aid.
Among those now wearing them who struggled initially, say they’re so happy they stuck with it. Their lives have become so much more enriched.
Improved hearing should be the drive
Be patient and don’t quit, 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 usually 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.