Most individuals are pleased with their hearing aids: 91% of hearing aid wearers are pleased with the hearing aid experience when talking one-on-one, as reported by 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 grocery store, 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 question, what are the other 9%, 15%, and 25% experiencing? What makes them less happy with their hearing aid?
Let’s discover the good and the bad things individuals have to say about their hearing aid results. (The good news, most of the bad stuff can be easily fixed.)
For people who are happy with their hearing aids, this article will make you even more happy. If you aren’t as happy with it as wish you were, we’ll explore 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 people around them. They have more energy. They participate and stay more active.
Their inability to hear isn’t so frustrating anymore. They feel less tired because they don’t have to struggle to understand what people are saying.
For many individuals, a hearing aid allows them to feel more connected to their world and others, which is when they feel happiest.
2. They might sound distorted initially
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 individuals may be dissatisfied when they’re in a noisy environment like a restaurant or talking on the phone but very pleased when in a one-on-one conversation.
Hearing aids aren’t hard to learn to use. But getting used to them will take some practice.
3. I needed assistance learning how to use my hearing aid
Hearing aids aren’t a “one-size-fits-all” solution as some people might presume. People might leave the office with the misunderstanding that the sound won’t get any better, which could prompt them not to wear them.
Hearing is more complex than you may know. Hearing aids are developed to address various types and levels of hearing loss by changing how sound goes into the ear.
When you’re in the office, we will do a thorough hearing aid fitting. It’s strongly suggested that you practice using your hearing aid by talking with a friend initially.
If it still doesn’t sound great after a few weeks, consult us. We can help you get a better understanding of how your functions work and we can likely do some fine-tuning for you.
4. I had forgotten what I was missing without full hearing
Can you recollect what gentle laughter or a soft whisper sounds like? What about the wind, wind chimes, birds singing, or quiet music? Maybe you can’t recall what children playing sounds like, or you’ve forgotten the sound of the delicate breathing of your significant other.
Hearing these little subtle sounds that were forgotten about is unexpectedly pleasant according to many people who get hearing aids. It means a great deal to have these sounds restored, it lets them again experience the fullness and grandeur of the world around them.
5. Getting used to my new hearing aid took some getting accustomed to.
When you were a tot and had to wear shoes for the first time, you probably 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.
When something like a hearing aid is initially put in your ear canal, your body is made to initially feel discomfort. Eventually, when the body understands that it’s not threatened, it will become accustomed to and comfortable with the new device.
6. I wish I hadn’t waited so long to get my hearing aid
People who made the effort to get used to their hearing aids wouldn’t go back. They typically feel disappointed about waiting so long and they would never trade the benefits of healthy hearing.
People now wearing them who struggled at first, say they’re so happy they stuck with it. Their lives have become a great deal more enriched.
Improved hearing should be the focus
Be patient and don’t quit, even if you’re not yet having the ideal 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, talk with 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.