The majority of individuals who wear hearing aids are satisfied with their experience: 91% of hearing aid wearers are happy with the hearing aid experience when speaking one-on-one, based on a recent survey. When processing 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.
For an advanced device like a hearing aid, these are some incredibly positive results. But we have to ask, what are the other 9%, 15%, and 25% experiencing? What makes them less satisfied with their hearing aid?
Let’s examine the good and the bad things people 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 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 often feel reconnected with people around them. They have more energy. They engage and stay more active.
They find their days filled with less frustration over their failure to hear. They feel less tired because they don’t have to struggle to understand what others are saying.
People are often happiest when they feel connected to other people and their world, and for many using a hearing aid makes that possible.
2. They might sound distorted initially
Hearing aids nowadays are digital. They don’t only make sounds louder, they have many settings to help you hear best 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.
It’s not hard to learn to use a hearing aid. But getting used to them will take some practice.
3. I couldn’t learn how to use my hearing aid by myself
A typical misunderstanding about hearing aids is that it’s a one-size-fits-all solution. People might leave the office with the mistake that the sound can’t get any better, which could prompt them not to wear them.
Hearing is more complex than you may realize. Hearing aids are designed to address various types and degrees of hearing loss by transforming the way sound goes into the ear.
When you are in the office, we will do a total hearing aid fitting. When you get home, we highly 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 help you have a better comprehension of how your functions work and we can likely do some fine-tuning for you.
4. I had forgotten what I was missing without complete hearing
Can you recollect what gentle laughter or a soft whisper sounds like? What about soft music, singing birds, wind chimes, or the wind? Perhaps you’ve forgotten how it makes you feel to hear the gentle breath of a significant other sitting close beside you or youngsters playing outside.
Hearing these little discreet sounds that were forgotten about is surprisingly pleasant according to many people who get hearing aids. It means so much to have these sounds restored, it allows them to once again experience the fullness and magnificence of the world around them.
5. Becoming accustomed to my new hearing aid took some getting accustomed to.
You likely weren’t at first comfortable with your first pair of shoes when you were a baby. But now, of course, you’re totally comfortable with them. Similarly, a new watch or a new hat might take a little time to get used to.
When something like a hearing aid is first put in your ear canal, your body is designed to initially feel uncomfortable. But within a short time, the body realizes there’s no threat and accepts the device as an extension of the body.
6. I wish I would have invested in my hearing aids sooner
People would never go back to having hearing loss if they were patient and took the time to become accustomed to them. They wouldn’t give up all the advantages of hearing, and they frequently regret putting off for so long to get a hearing aid.
Of those now wearing them who had trouble at first, say they’re so glad they persevered. It’s made their life so much more enriched.
Pay attention to improved hearing
Be patient and don’t quit, even if you aren’t yet having the best experience. It’s worth the time and effort. It will become second nature before too long.
Whatever you’re experiencing with your hearing aid today, consult us about it. We can help you adjust your hearing aids in a faster and more efficient way. The adjustment is worth it when you get the opportunity to experience all that life has to offer.