The majority of individuals who use hearing aids are satisfied with their results: 91% of hearing aid wearers are happy with the hearing aid experience when talking one-on-one, according to a recent survey. When analyzing results with specific 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.
These are some dramatically positive numbers for an intricate device like a hearing aid. But we have to ask, what are the other 9%, 15%, and 25% feeling? Why aren’t they as satisfied 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!)
For individuals who are happy with their hearing aids, this article will make you even happier. And for people who are less thrilled, this article should help you tackle your concerns.
1. I feel more connected
People who have had their ability to hear restored with a hearing aid frequently feel reconnected with individuals around them. Their energy levels are increased. They feel like they can better engage and remain active.
Their failure to hear isn’t so frustrating anymore. They feel less fatigued because they don’t have to work so hard to understand what other people are saying.
People are usually happiest when they feel connected to others and their world, and for many using a hearing aid makes that possible.
2. They might sound distorted initially
Contemporary hearing aids are digital. They have many advanced settings for different hearing environments rather than simply 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’s not difficult to learn to use a hearing aid. But getting used to them will take a little practice.
3. I couldn’t find out how to use my hearing aid by myself
Hearing aids aren’t a “one-size-fits-all” solution as some people may presume. People might leave the office with the mistake that the sound can’t get any better, which may prompt them not to wear them.
Hearing is more complex than you might recognize. Hearing aids are designed to address various types and levels of hearing loss by adjusting the way sound enters the ear.
When you are in the office, we will do a complete hearing aid fitting. When you get home, we suggest that you practice using your hearing aid with a friend in various settings.
If it still doesn’t sound great after a few weeks, talk to us. We can most likely make adjustments or help you better comprehend how the hearing aid works in settings where you’re having difficulty.
4. Without full hearing, you forgot what you were missing out on
Can you recollect what gentle laughter or a delicate whisper sounds like? How about soft music, birds singing, wind chimes, or the wind? Perhaps you can’t recollect what kids playing sounds like, or you’ve forgotten the sound of the delicate breathing of your significant other.
Many individuals who get a hearing aid share that it’s a pleasing surprise to suddenly hear these small things that they had forgotten about. Having these sounds restored means the full 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 tot 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 might 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 put in your ear canal, your body is designed to initially feel discomfort. Eventually, when the body understands that it’s not threatened, it will become accustomed to and comfortable with the new device.
6. I wish I hadn’t waited so long to get my hearing aid
People who took the time to get used to their hearing aids would never go back. They wouldn’t trade all the benefits of hearing, and they often regret putting off for so long to invest in a hearing aid.
People now wearing them who had trouble initially, say they’re so thankful they stuck with it. Their lives have become so much more enriched.
Improved hearing should be the drive
If you aren’t having the best experience with your hearing aid, don’t quit. It’s worth the effort and time. 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 effective way. Experiencing all that life has to provide with restored hearing is worth the patients.
