Most individuals are pleased with their hearing aids: Based upon one recent survey, when speaking one-on-one, 91% of individuals who wear hearing aids are pleased 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? What makes them less happy with their hearing aid?
People with hearing aids have some good and some bad things to convey about them. (The good news, the majority of the bad things can be easily fixed.)
For individuals who are happy with their hearing aids, this article will make you even happier. And for individuals who are less happy, this article should help you tackle your concerns.
1. I feel more connected
There’s frequently a reconnection with friends and loved ones for people who have had their ability to hear restored with hearing aids. Their energy levels are increased. They feel like they can better engage and remain active.
Their failure to hear isn’t as frustrating anymore. They feel less fatigued because they don’t have to work so hard 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
Contemporary 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 isn’t difficult to learn to use a hearing aid. But getting used to them will take some 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 many people might presume. If it doesn’t sound great when they leave the office they might think that this is as good as it gets and decide it’s easier not to wear the hearing aid.
Hearing is more complex than you might know. Modern Hearing aids include settings that address many degrees and types of hearing loss.
When you are in the office, we will do a thorough hearing aid fitting. It’s strongly advised that you practice using your hearing aid by talking with a friend at first.
Talk with us if you’re still having difficulty after a few weeks. We can probably make modifications or help you better comprehend how the hearing aid works in environments where you’re having difficulty.
4. Without full hearing, you forgot what you were missing
Can you recall what gentle laughter or a soft whisper sounds like? What about the wind, wind chimes, birds singing, or soft music? Maybe you’ve forgotten what it’s like to hear the soft breath of a significant other sitting close beside you or youngsters playing outside.
Many people who get a hearing aid communicate that it’s a nice surprise to suddenly hear these small things that they had forgotten about. Having these sounds restored means the full magnificence of the world around can once again be experienced by people who get hearing aids.
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. Now you may prefer to wear them all the time. It may take time to become accustomed to a new hat or a new watch, in a similar way.
Our bodies are made to feel discomfort when something seems out of place, such as a hearing aid going into your outer ear. But pretty soon, the body recognizes there’s no threat and accepts the device as an extension of the body.
6. I wish I hadn’t put off so long to get my hearing aid
People 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 struggled at first, say they’re so glad they stuck with it. It’s made their life a whole lot more enriched.
Pay attention to improved hearing
Be patient and don’t give up, even if you aren’t yet having the best experience. It’s worth the effort and time. It will become automatic before too long.
Let us know about what you’re experiencing with your hearing aids. We can typically give you 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.