Most individuals are pleased with their hearing aids: 91% of hearing aid wearers are pleased with the hearing aid experience when speaking one-on-one, as reported by 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 grocery store, and 85% were satisfied watching TV or in a group.
For a sophisticated device like a hearing aid, these are some amazingly positive results. But we have to ask, what are the other 9%, 15%, and 25% feeling? What makes them less happy with their hearing devices?
Let’s explore the good and the bad things individuals have to say about their hearing aid results. (We can easily fix most 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. And for individuals who are less excited, 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. They have more energy. They participate and stay more active.
Their inability to hear isn’t as frustrating anymore. They feel less tired because they don’t have to struggle to understand what other people are saying.
For many people, a hearing aid helps them feel more connected to their world and others, which is when they feel happiest.
2. At first, sounds seemed distorted
Contemporary hearing aids are digital. They don’t simply make sounds louder, they have many settings to help you hear better in a variety of places. Because of this, some people may be dissatisfied when they’re in a noisy environment like a restaurant or talking on the phone but quite pleased when in a one-on-one conversation.
It isn’t difficult to learn to use a hearing aid. But getting used to them will take a little practice.
3. I needed help finding out how to use my hearing aid
A typical confusion about hearing aids is that it’s a one-size-fits-all solution. If it doesn’t sound good when they first get home they might get the misconception that this is as good as it gets and decide it’s easier not to wear the hearing aid.
You may not even realize how complex hearing loss is. Modern Hearing aids include settings that target many degrees and types of hearing loss.
Our experienced hearing specialists will complete a hearing aid fitting in the office. 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 couple of 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. Without full hearing, you forgot what you were missing out on
Do you recall what a subtle whisper sounds like? What 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 delicate breath of a significant other sitting near you or youngsters playing outside.
Hearing these little subtle sounds that were forgotten about is surprisingly pleasing according to many individuals who get hearing aids. Having these sounds restored means the full brilliance of the world around can once again be experienced by individuals who get hearing aids.
5. It took some time to get used to my hearing aids
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 totally comfortable with them. It might take time to become accustomed to a new hat or a new watch, in a similar way.
Our bodies are designed to feel uncomfortable when something seems 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 used to and comfortable with the new device.
6. I wish I would have purchased my hearing aids sooner
Individuals would never go back to having hearing loss if they were persistent and took the time to get used to them. They normally feel disappointed about waiting so long and they would never give up the benefits of healthy hearing.
Of those now wearing them who struggled at first, say they’re so thankful they persevered. It’s made their life so much more enriched.
Improved hearing should be the focus
Be patient and don’t give up, even if you’re not yet having the ideal experience. The effort and time will be worth it. Before long, wearing the hearing aid will become automatic.
Whatever you’re experiencing with your hearing aid today, talk to us about it. We can help you adjust your hearing aids in a faster and more efficient way. Enjoying all that life has to offer with restored hearing is worth the adjustment.