The majority of people who use hearing aids are pleased with their experience: 91% of hearing aid wearers are pleased with the hearing aid experience when talking one-on-one, based on a recent survey. When talking 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 like a hearing aid. But we have to question, what are the other 9%, 15%, and 25% experiencing? Why aren’t they as satisfied with their devices?
Let’s explore the good and the bad things individuals have to say about their hearing aid results. (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. If you aren’t as satisfied with it as you’d like to be, we’ll explore what to do about it.
1. I feel more connected
There’s often a reconnection with friends and loved ones for individuals who have had their ability to hear revived with hearing aids. They have more energy. They participate and stay more active.
Their failure 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 exhausted.
People are usually happiest when they feel connected with other people and their world, and for many wearing a hearing aid makes this possible.
2. They might sound distorted initially
Hearing aids nowadays are digital. They don’t only make sounds louder, they have lots of 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.
Hearing aids aren’t difficult to learn to use. But getting used to them will take a bit of practice.
3. I couldn’t find out how to use my hearing aid on my own
A common misconception about hearing aids is that it’s a one-size-fits-all solution. People may leave the office with the misconception that the sound won’t get any better, which could prompt them not to use them.
You might not even recognize how complex hearing loss is. Modern Hearing aids include settings that target many levels and types of hearing loss.
When you are in the office, we will do a complete hearing aid fitting. When you get home, we highly recommend that you practice using your hearing aid with a friend in a variety of settings.
Talk with us if you’re still having trouble after a few weeks. We can probably make modifications 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
Can you recall what gentle laughter or a soft whisper sounds like? How about soft music, singing birds, wind chimes, or the wind? Maybe you’ve forgotten how it makes you feel to hear the soft breath of a significant other sitting close beside you or youngsters playing outside.
Hearing these little discreet sounds that were forgotten about is unexpectedly pleasing according to many individuals who get hearing aids. It means a whole lot to have these sounds restored, it allows them to again experience the fullness and grandeur of the world around them.
5. Becoming accustomed to my new hearing aid took some getting used to.
You most likely 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 used to.
When something like a hearing aid is first placed in your ear canal, your body is made 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 put off so long to get my hearing aid
People who made the effort to get used to their hearing aids wouldn’t go back. They usually regret waiting so long and they would never trade the advantages of being able to hear.
People now wearing them who had trouble at first, say they’re so glad they stuck with it. Their lives have become a great deal more enriched.
Improved hearing should be the focus
Be patient and don’t quit, even if you aren’t yet having the ideal experience. It’s worth the time and effort. Before long, using 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. Enjoying all that life has to provide with restored hearing is worth the patients.