The majority of people who use hearing aids are happy with their results: 91% of hearing aid wearers are happy with the hearing aid experience when talking one-on-one, based on a recent survey. When speaking about particular activities, 85% were satisfied in a group setting and watching TV, 78% while in the store, and 75% in a restaurant or on the phone.
For a sophisticated device like a hearing aid, these are some extremely positive results. But that still leaves us wondering, what’s happening with the other 25%, 15%, and 9%. Why aren’t they as satisfied with their devices?
People who use hearing aids have some good and some bad things to say about them. (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 happier. 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 often feel reconnected with those around them. Their energy levels are higher. They participate and stay more active.
They find their days filled with less discouragement over their failure to hear. Because they don’t need to work as hard to hear what people are saying, they feel less tired.
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
Hearing aids today are digital. They don’t only make sounds louder, they have lots of settings to help you hear better in a variety of places. Because of this, some people might be dissatisfied when they’re in a loud environment like a restaurant or talking on the phone but quite pleased when in a one-on-one conversation.
It isn’t hard to learn to use a hearing aid. But getting used to them will take a bit of practice.
3. I needed help finding out how to use my hearing aid
Hearing aids aren’t a “one-size-fits-all” solution as some people might presume. People may leave the office with the mistake that the sound can’t get any better, which may prompt them not to use them.
You may not even recognize how complex hearing loss can be. Hearing aids are developed to target various types and levels of hearing loss by changing the way sound goes into the ear.
Our expert hearing specialists will perform a hearing aid fitting in the office. When you get home, we recommend that you practice using your hearing aid with a friend in a variety of settings.
If it still doesn’t sound good after a few weeks, consult us. We can help you get a better knowledge of how your functions work and we can most likely do some fine-tuning for you.
4. I had forgotten what I was missing out on without healthy hearing
Do you recall what a playful whisper sounds like? How about gentle laughter? How about the wind, wind chimes, birds singing, 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 surprisingly pleasing according to many people who get hearing aids. Having these sounds restored means the full magnificence of the world around can once again be experienced by people who get hearing aids.
5. Becoming accustomed to my new hearing aid took some getting accustomed 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 totally comfortable with them. It might take time to get used to a new hat or a new watch, in a similar way.
Our bodies are designed to feel uncomfortable when something feels out of place, such as a hearing aid going into your outer ear. But within a short time, the body recognizes there is no threat and accepts the device as an extension of the body.
6. I wish I hadn’t waited so long to purchase my hearing aid
Individuals who took the time to get used to their hearing aids would never go back. They typically feel disappointed about putting off for so long and they would never give up the benefits of being able to hear.
Among those 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
Be patient and don’t give up, 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 automatic.
Whatever you’re experiencing with your hearing aid today, talk with us about it. We can usually give you tips on how to get used to your hearing aids faster. The patience is worth it when you get the opportunity to experience all that life has to offer.