Most individuals are happy with their hearing aids: 91% of hearing aid wearers are satisfied with the hearing aid experience when speaking one-on-one, based on 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 wonderfully positive figures for an intricate device like a hearing aid. But we have to question, what are the other 9%, 15%, and 25% feeling? What makes them less happy with their hearing aid?
Let’s explore the good and the bad things individuals have to say about their hearing aid results. (We can easily fix the majority 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 individuals who are less happy, this article should help you address your concerns.
1. I feel more connected
There’s frequently a reconnection with friends and loved ones for individuals who have had their ability to hear revived with hearing aids. Their energy levels are increased. They participate and stay more active.
They find their days filled with less discouragement over their inability to hear. They feel less fatigued because they don’t have to struggle to understand what others are saying.
People are usually happiest when they feel connected with others and their world, and for many wearing a hearing aid makes this possible.
2. They may sound distorted initially
Hearing aids nowadays are digital. They have many advanced settings for different hearing environments rather than just making everything louder. That’s why people might be so satisfied in a one-on-one conversation but dissatisfied in a restaurant or on the phone.
It’s not hard to learn to use a hearing aid. But getting used to them will take a little practice.
3. I couldn’t learn how to use my hearing aid by myself
Hearing aids aren’t a “one-size-fits-all” solution as many individuals might presume. People may leave the office with the mistake that the sound can’t get any better, which could prompt them not to use them.
Hearing is more complex than you may realize. Modern Hearing aids have settings that address many degrees and types of hearing loss.
When you are 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.
Consult with us if you’re still having trouble after a few weeks. We can likely make modifications or help you better comprehend how the hearing aid works in settings where you’re having trouble.
4. Without healthy hearing, you forgot what you were missing out on
Do you remember what a subtle whisper sounds like? What about gentle laughter? How about soft music, singing birds, wind chimes, or the wind? Maybe you can’t recall what children playing sounds like, or you’ve forgotten the sound of the gentle breathing of your significant other.
Many individuals who get a hearing aid communicate that it’s a nice surprise to suddenly hear these little things that they had forgotten about. It means a great deal to have these sounds restored, it lets them once more experience the fullness and magnificence of the world around them.
5. Getting used to my new hearing aid took some getting used to.
When you were a toddler and had to put on shoes for the first time, you most likely thought that was uncomfortable. But now, of course, you’re totally comfortable with them. Similarly, a new watch or a new hat might take some time to get accustomed to.
Our bodies are made to feel uncomfortable when something feels out of place, like a hearing aid going into your outer ear. Eventually, when the body understands that it’s not threatened, it will become used to and comfortable with the new device.
6. I wish I hadn’t put off so long to get my hearing aid
Individuals would never go back to having hearing loss if they were patient and took the time to get used to them. They wouldn’t trade all the advantages of hearing, and they frequently regret putting off for so long to get a hearing aid.
Among those now wearing them who struggled initially, say they’re so happy they stuck with it. Their lives have become a great deal more enriched.
Improved hearing should be the drive
If you’re not having the ideal experience with your hearing aid, don’t quit. The effort and the time will be worth it. It will become automatic before too long.
Whatever you’re experiencing with your hearing aid today, consult us about it. We can help you fine-tune your hearing aids in a faster and more efficient way. Enjoying all that life has to provide with restored hearing is worth the adjustment.