The majority of people who use hearing aids are happy with their results: Based upon one recent survey, when talking one-on-one, 91% of people who use hearing aids are happy with their experience. When speaking about specific activities, 85% were satisfied in a group setting and watching TV, 78% while shopping, and 75% in a restaurant or on the phone.
These are some dramatically positive figures for a complex device such as a hearing aid. But we have to question, what are the other 9%, 15%, and 25% experiencing? What makes them less satisfied with their hearing devices?
Individuals with 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!)
For individuals who are happy with their hearing aids, this article will make you even more happy. If you’re not as happy with it as wish you were, we’ll discover what to do about it.
1. I feel more connected
People who have had their ability to hear revived with a hearing aid often feel reconnected with individuals around them. They have more vitality. They participate and stay more active.
They find their days filled with less frustration over their inability to hear. They feel less fatigued because they don’t have to work so hard to understand what other people are saying.
For many people, 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
Modern hearing aids are digital. They have many advanced settings for different hearing environments rather than just making everything louder. That’s why people might be so satisfied in a one-on-one conversation but dissatisfied in a restaurant or on the phone.
It isn’t difficult to learn to use a hearing aid. But getting used to them will take a little practice.
3. I needed assistance learning how to use my hearing aid
Hearing aids aren’t a “one-size-fits-all” solution as some people might think. People may leave the office with the misconception that the sound won’t get any better, which may prompt them not to use them.
You may not even realize how complex hearing loss can be. Modern Hearing aids incorporate settings that address many levels and types of hearing loss.
Our qualified hearing specialists will complete a hearing aid fitting in the office. It’s strongly suggested that you practice using your hearing aid by talking with a friend initially.
If it still doesn’t sound great after a few weeks, consult us. We can very likely make adjustments or help you better understand how the hearing aid works in settings where you’re having trouble.
4. I had forgotten what I was missing without full hearing
Do you recall what a playful whisper sounds like? What about gentle laughter? What about the wind, wind chimes, singing birds, or quiet music? Perhaps you can’t recall what kids playing sounds like, or you’ve forgotten the sound of the delicate breathing of your significant other.
Many people 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 whole 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 probably weren’t at first comfortable with your first pair of shoes when you were a baby. But now, of course, you’re completely comfortable with them. In a similar way, a new watch or a new hat might take a little time to get accustomed to.
Our bodies are made to feel uncomfortable when something feels out of place, like a hearing aid going into your outer ear. Eventually, when the body recognizes that it’s not threatened, it will become accustomed to and comfortable with the new device.
6. I wish I would have invested in my hearing aids sooner
Individuals who put in the time to get used to their hearing aids wouldn’t go back. They wouldn’t give up all the benefits of hearing, and they often regret waiting so long to invest in a hearing aid.
Among those now wearing them who struggled at first, say they’re so thankful they stuck with it. It’s made their life a whole lot more enriched.
Focus on improved hearing
If you’re not having the best experience with your hearing aid, don’t quit. The effort and time will be worth it. It will become second nature before too long.
Let us know about what you’re experiencing with your hearing aids. We can help you fine-tune 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.