Most individuals are pleased with their hearing aids: 91% of hearing aid users are pleased with the hearing aid experience when talking 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.
For a sophisticated device like a hearing aid, these are some extremely positive results. But that still leaves us questioning, what’s going on with the other 25%, 15%, and 9%. Why aren’t they as satisfied with their devices?
Individuals who use hearing aids have some good and some bad things to say about them. (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 happy, this article should help you deal with your concerns.
1. I feel more connected
There’s frequently a reconnection with friends and loved ones for people who have had their ability to hear revived with hearing aids. They have more energy. They participate and stay more active.
Their failure to hear isn’t so discouraging anymore. They feel less exhausted because they don’t have to work so hard to understand what others are saying.
People are usually happiest when they feel connected with others and their world, and for many using a hearing aid makes this possible.
2. Initially, sounds seemed distorted
Hearing aids nowadays are digital. They don’t just make sounds louder, they have lots of settings to help you hear best in a variety of places. 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 difficult to learn to use a hearing aid. But getting used to them will take a bit of practice.
3. I couldn’t find out how to use my hearing aid by myself
A typical misunderstanding about hearing aids is that it’s a one-size-fits-all solution. If it doesn’t sound great when they leave the office they might get the misconception that this is as good as it gets and decide it’s easier not to wear the hearing aid.
You might not even recognize how complex hearing loss is. Modern Hearing aids include settings that address many degrees and types of hearing loss.
Our qualified hearing specialists will perform a hearing aid fitting in the office. When you get home, we highly recommend that you practice using your hearing aid with a friend in a variety of settings.
If it still doesn’t sound good after a few weeks, consult us. We can most likely make modifications or help you better comprehend how the hearing aid works in settings where you’re having difficulty.
4. I had forgotten what I was missing without healthy hearing
Do you remember what a playful whisper sounds like? How about gentle laughter? What about soft music, singing birds, wind chimes, or the wind? Perhaps you’ve forgotten how it makes you feel to hear the delicate 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 people who get hearing aids. Having these sounds restored means the whole brilliance of the world around can once again be experienced by individuals who get hearing aids.
5. It took some time to get used to my hearing aids
When you were a tot and had to put on shoes for the first time, you likely thought that was uncomfortable. Now you might like to wear them all the time. It might take time to become accustomed to a new hat or a new watch, in a similar way.
Our bodies are made to feel discomfort 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 waited so long to purchase my hearing aid
Individuals who made the effort to get used to their hearing aids wouldn’t go back. They typically regret putting off for so long and they would never trade the advantages of healthy hearing.
People who were patient and stuck with it were happy that they did. It’s made their life a whole lot more enriched.
Focus on improved hearing
Be patient and don’t give up, even if you’re not yet having the ideal experience. It’s worth the time and effort. It will become automatic before too long.
Whatever you’re experiencing with your hearing aid today, consult us about it. We can usually offer tips on how to get used to your hearing aids faster. The patience is worth it when you get the opportunity to experience all that life has to offer.