Most people are pleased with their hearing aids: 91% of hearing aid users are happy with the hearing aid experience when speaking one-on-one, according to a recent survey. When breaking down 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 figures for an intricate device like a hearing aid. But we have to ask, 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 people have to say about their hearing aid results. (We can easily fix most of the bad stuff and that’s the good news!)
If you love your hearing aid, this article will help you love it even more. And for people who are less thrilled, this article should help you address your concerns.
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 feel like they can better participate and stay active.
Their inability to hear isn’t as discouraging anymore. They feel less tired because they don’t have to struggle to understand what others 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. They might sound distorted initially
Hearing aids nowadays are digital. They have lots of advanced settings for different hearing environments rather than simply making everything louder. That’s why people may be so satisfied in a one-on-one conversation but dissatisfied in a restaurant or on the phone.
It isn’t hard to learn to use a hearing aid. But they do take some practice getting used to them.
3. I couldn’t learn how to use my hearing aid on my own
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 think that this is as good as it gets and decide it’s easier not to wear the hearing aid.
You may not even recognize how complex hearing loss is. Modern Hearing aids include settings that address many levels and types of hearing loss.
Our experienced hearing specialists will undertake a hearing aid fitting in the office. It’s strongly advised that you practice using your hearing aid by chatting with a friend initially.
If it still doesn’t sound good after a few weeks, consult us. We can probably make adjustments or help you better understand how the hearing aid works in environments where you’re having trouble.
4. Without full hearing, you forgot what you were missing out on
Can you recall what gentle laughter or a soft whisper sounds like? What about the wind, wind chimes, singing birds, or soft music? Maybe you’ve forgotten how it makes you feel to hear the soft breath of a significant other sitting near 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. Having these sounds restored means the whole magnificence of the world around can once again be experienced by people who get hearing aids.
5. It took a while to get accustomed to my hearing aids
When you were a tot and had to wear shoes for the first time, you likely thought that was uncomfortable. Now you might prefer to use them all the time. It may 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 uncomfortable. But pretty soon, the body realizes there is no threat and welcomes the device as an extension of the body.
6. I wish I hadn’t put off so long to invest in my hearing aid
Individuals who took the time to get used to their hearing aids would not go back. They wouldn’t give up all the benefits of hearing, and they frequently regret waiting so long to get a hearing aid.
Individuals who were patient and stuck with it were thankful that they did. It’s made their life a whole lot more enriched.
Pay attention to improved hearing
Be patient and don’t quit, even if you’re not yet having the ideal experience. It’s worth the effort and time. Soon, wearing the hearing aid will become second nature.
Let us know about what you’re experiencing with your hearing aids. We can often offer advice on how to adjust to your hearing aids faster. Experiencing all that life has to offer with restored hearing is worth the adjustment.