The majority of people who wear hearing aids are pleased with their results: 91% of hearing aid wearers are pleased with the hearing aid experience when speaking one-on-one, based on a recent survey. When talking about particular 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 spectacularly positive figures for a complex device like a hearing aid. But that still leaves us wondering, what’s happening with the other 25%, 15%, and 9%. What makes them less satisfied with their hearing devices?
Let’s examine the good and the bad things individuals have to say about their hearing aid experience. (We can easily fix the majority 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. If you’re not as happy with it as wish you were, we’ll investigate what to do about it.
1. I feel more connected
People who have had their ability to hear revived with a hearing aid frequently feel reconnected with people around them. Their energy levels are increased. They engage and stay more active.
They find their days filled with less discouragement over their inability to hear. They feel less tired because they don’t have to work so hard to understand what people are saying.
For many individuals, a hearing aid helps them feel more connected to their world and others, which is when they feel happiest.
2. In the beginning, sounds seemed distorted
Hearing aids nowadays are digital. They don’t simply make sounds louder, they have lots of settings to help you hear better 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 they do take some practice getting used to them.
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 individuals might think. People may leave the office with the misunderstanding that the sound can’t get any better, which may prompt them not to use them.
Hearing is more complex than you might recognize. Hearing aids are developed to manage numerous types and degrees of hearing loss by adjusting how sound enters the ear.
When you’re in the office, we will perform a total hearing aid fitting. When you get home, we recommend that you practice using your hearing aid with a friend in various settings.
If it still doesn’t sound right after a few weeks, consult us. We can probably make modifications or help you better comprehend how the hearing aid works in settings where you’re having difficulty.
4. I had forgotten what I was missing without complete hearing
Do you recall what a playful whisper sounds like? How about gentle laughter? How about the wind, wind chimes, singing birds, or quiet 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.
Hearing these little discreet sounds that were forgotten about is unexpectedly pleasant 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.
When you were a toddler and had to wear shoes for the first time, you likely thought that was awkward. 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.
When something like a hearing aid is first placed in your ear canal, your body is made to initially feel discomfort. But within a short time, the body realizes there is no threat and welcomes the device as an extension of the body.
6. I wish I would have purchased my hearing aids sooner
People who made the effort to get used to their hearing aids would never go back. They wouldn’t trade all the advantages of hearing, and they frequently regret putting off for 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 great deal more enriched.
Pay attention to improved hearing
If you’re not having the best experience with your hearing aid, don’t give up. It’s worth the effort and time. It will become second nature before too long.
Whatever you’re experiencing with your hearing aid today, talk with us about it. We can usually give you advice on how to adjust to your hearing aids faster. Enjoying all that life has to offer with restored hearing is worth the patients.
