The majority of people who use hearing aids are pleased with their experience: According to one recent survey, when speaking one-on-one, 91% of people who wear hearing aids are happy with their results. When talking about particular activities, 85% were satisfied in a group environment and watching TV, 78% while in the store, and 75% in a restaurant or on the phone.
These are some dramatically positive numbers for an intricate device like a hearing aid. But that still leaves us questioning, what’s happening with the other 25%, 15%, and 9%. Why aren’t they as satisfied with their devices?
Individuals who use hearing aids have some good and some bad things to convey about them. (The good news, most 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 excited, 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. Their energy levels are higher. They feel like they can better participate and stay active.
They find their days filled with less discouragement over their inability to hear. They feel less exhausted because they don’t have to struggle to understand what others are saying.
People are usually happiest when they feel connected to others and their world, and for many wearing a hearing aid makes this possible.
2. In the beginning, sounds seemed distorted
Hearing aids today are digital. They have many advanced settings for different hearing environments rather than just making everything louder. Because of this, some people might be dissatisfied when they’re in a noisy setting like a restaurant or talking on the phone but really pleased when in a one-on-one conversation.
It’s not difficult to learn to use a hearing aid. But getting used to them will take a little practice.
3. I couldn’t learn how to use my hearing aid by myself
Hearing aids aren’t a “one-size-fits-all” solution as some people might think. People may leave the office with the misunderstanding that the sound won’t get any better, which may prompt them not to wear them.
You may not even understand how complex hearing loss is. Hearing aids are designed to manage various types and degrees of hearing loss by adjusting the way sound goes into the ear.
Our expert hearing specialists will complete a hearing aid fitting in the office. It’s strongly recommended that you practice using your hearing aid by chatting with a friend at first.
Talk with us if you’re still having trouble after a few weeks. We can very likely make adjustments or help you better comprehend how the hearing aid works in environments where you’re having trouble.
4. Without healthy hearing, you forgot what you were missing
Can you recollect what gentle laughter or a delicate whisper sounds like? How about the wind, wind chimes, birds singing, or soft music? Maybe you’ve forgotten how it makes you feel to hear the delicate breath of a significant other sitting near you or youngsters playing outside.
Hearing these little discreet sounds that were forgotten about is unexpectedly pleasant according to many people who get hearing aids. It means a whole lot to have these sounds restored, it lets them again experience the fullness and magnificence of the world around them.
5. Getting used to my new hearing aid took some getting used to.
When you were a toddler and had to put on shoes for the first time, you probably thought that was awkward. But now, of course, you’re completely comfortable with them. Similarly, a new watch or a new hat might take a bit of time to get accustomed to.
When something like a hearing aid is first put in your ear canal, your body is designed to initially feel discomfort. But within a short time, the body realizes there’s no threat and welcomes the device as an extension of the body.
6. I wish I would have invested in my hearing aids sooner
People would never go back to having hearing loss if they were persistent and took the time to get used to them. They usually feel disappointed about putting off for so long and they would never trade the benefits of being able to hear.
Among those now wearing them who struggled at first, say they’re so glad they stuck with it. It’s made their life a great deal more enriched.
Improved hearing should be the focus
Be patient and don’t give up, 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 adjust your hearing aids in a faster and more efficient way. The patience is worth it when you get the opportunity to experience all that life has to offer.