Most individuals are pleased with their hearing aids: 91% of hearing aid users 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 shopping, and 75% in a restaurant or on the phone.
These are some spectacularly positive figures for an intricate device such as a hearing aid. But we have to question, what are the other 9%, 15%, and 25% feeling? Why aren’t they as happy with their devices?
Let’s examine 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.)
If you love your hearing aid, this article will help you love it even more. If you’re not as happy with it as you’d like to be, we’ll discover what to do about it.
1. I feel more connected
There’s frequently a reconnection with friends and loved ones for people who have had their ability to hear restored with hearing aids. They have more energy. They feel like they can better engage and remain active.
Their failure to hear isn’t as frustrating anymore. Because they don’t need to work as hard to hear what people are saying, they feel less tired.
People are typically happiest when they feel connected to others and their world, and for many wearing a hearing aid makes this possible.
2. At first, sounds seemed distorted
Modern hearing aids are digital. They don’t simply make sounds louder, they have many settings to help you hear best in various places. Because of this, some individuals might be dissatisfied when they’re in a loud setting like a restaurant or talking on the phone but very pleased when in a one-on-one conversation.
Hearing aids aren’t complicated to learn to use. But they do take some practice getting used to them.
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 think. People might leave the office with the misconception that the sound can’t get any better, which may prompt them not to use them.
You might not even realize how complex hearing loss is. Modern Hearing aids incorporate settings that target many degrees and types of hearing loss.
When you are in the office, we will perform a complete hearing aid fitting. It’s strongly advised that you practice using your hearing aid by chatting with a friend initially.
If it still doesn’t sound right after a few weeks, consult us. We can very likely make modifications 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
Do you remember what a playful whisper sounds like? What about gentle laughter? How about the wind, wind chimes, birds singing, or quiet music? Perhaps you can’t recollect what kids playing sounds like, or you’ve forgotten the sound of the soft breathing of your significant other.
Hearing these little discreet sounds that were forgotten about is unexpectedly pleasing according to many individuals who get hearing aids. It means a great deal to have these sounds restored, it allows them to again experience the fullness and magnificence of the world around them.
5. Getting used 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 most likely thought that was uncomfortable. But now, of course, you’re completely comfortable with them. Similarly, a new watch or a new hat might take some time to get used to.
Our bodies are designed to feel discomfort when something seems out of place, like a hearing aid going into your outer ear. But pretty soon, the body realizes there is no threat and welcomes the device as an extension of the body.
6. I wish I would have purchased my hearing aids sooner
Individuals who put in the time to get used to their hearing aids would not go back. They usually regret putting off for so long and they would never trade the benefits of healthy hearing.
People who were patient and stuck with it were happy that they did. Their lives have become a great deal more enriched.
Focus on improved hearing
If you’re not having the best experience with your hearing aid, don’t give up. The effort and time will be worth it. Soon, wearing the hearing aid will become automatic.
Let us know about what you’re experiencing with your hearing aids. We can typically give you advice on how to adjust to your hearing aids faster. The adjustment is worth it when you get the opportunity to experience all that life has to offer.