The majority of individuals who use hearing aids are happy with their experience: 91% of hearing aid wearers are pleased with the hearing aid experience when talking one-on-one, as reported by a recent survey. When talking about specific activities, 85% were satisfied in a group setting and watching TV, 78% while in the store, and 75% in a restaurant or on the phone.
For an advanced device like a hearing aid, these are some extremely 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?
Individuals who use hearing aids have some good and some bad things to say about them. (We can easily fix most of the bad things and that’s the good news!)
If you love your hearing aid, this article will help you love it even more. And for people who are less thrilled, 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 individuals around them. They have more vitality. They engage and stay more active.
Their inability to hear isn’t so frustrating anymore. Because they don’t have to work as hard to hear what people are saying, they feel less fatigued.
People are usually happiest when they feel connected with other people and their world, and for many using a hearing aid makes this possible.
2. Initially, sounds seemed distorted
Modern hearing aids are digital. They don’t only make sounds louder, they have many settings to help you hear best in a variety of places. That’s why people may be so satisfied in a one-on-one conversation but dissatisfied in a restaurant or on the phone.
It’s not difficult to learn to use a hearing aid. But they do take some practice getting used to them.
3. I needed help finding out how to use my hearing aid
A frequent misunderstanding about hearing aids is that it’s a one-size-fits-all solution. People might leave the office with the misunderstanding that the sound won’t get any better, which could prompt them not to wear them.
You might not even recognize how complex hearing loss is. Hearing aids are designed to target various types and degrees of hearing loss by changing the way sound enters the ear.
When you’re in the office, we will do a complete hearing aid fitting. It’s strongly suggested that you practice using your hearing aid by talking with a friend at first.
If it still doesn’t sound right after a few weeks, consult us. We can help you have a better comprehension of how your functions work and we can most likely make some fine adjustments for you.
4. Without healthy hearing, you forgot what you were missing
Do you remember what a playful whisper sounds like? What about gentle laughter? How about soft music, singing birds, wind chimes, or the wind? Maybe you can’t recall what kids playing sounds like, or you’ve forgotten the sound of the soft breathing of your significant other.
Many people who get a hearing aid share that it’s a pleasant surprise to suddenly hear these little things that they had forgotten about. Having these sounds restored means the whole brilliance of the world around can once again be experienced by people who get hearing aids.
5. It took a while to get used to my hearing aids
When you were a toddler and had to wear shoes for the first time, you probably thought that was awkward. But now, of course, you’re completely comfortable with them. It may take time to become accustomed to a new hat or a new watch, in a similar way.
When something like a hearing aid is first placed in your ear canal, your body is designed to initially feel discomfort. Eventually, when the body recognizes 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
People who made the effort to get used to their hearing aids wouldn’t go back. They wouldn’t trade all the advantages of hearing, and they frequently regret waiting so long to get a hearing aid.
Individuals who had patience and stuck with it were glad that they did. Their lives have become a great deal more enriched.
Improved hearing should be the drive
Be patient and don’t give up, even if you aren’t yet having the best experience. The effort and the time will be worth it. Soon, wearing the hearing aid will become second nature.
Whatever you’re experiencing with your hearing aid today, consult us about it. We can typically offer tips on how to get used to your hearing aids faster. The adjustment is worth it when you get the opportunity to experience all that life has to offer.
