This post will discuss a common concern shared by many when deciding to pursue hearing aids. Recently, I have had patient’s hesitate when deciding to move forward with treating their hearing loss due to an unpleasant hearing aid experience their friend or family member had. There are a few things I like to discuss when trying to understand why they were not happy with their hearing aids. First, there have been tremendous advancements in hearing aid technology in recent years, especially in terms of noise management. Therefore, the age of the hearing aid is an important consideration. It should also be noted that different types of hearing loss require different types of hearing aids. Beyond the age and type of the device, it is important to follow-up with your audiologist to address any present concerns. Hearing aids have many features to help the user hear better, but the programming of a hearing aid is just as important as the features included in the device.
Adapting to New Hearing Aids Takes Time
Going from listening without hearing aids to listening with hearing aids is something that the brain needs time to adapt to. The amount of gain (volume) needed to fully treat the hearing loss present can be overwhelming at first, especially for new users. This can be frustrating for some patients and can result in the user not wanting to wear the hearing aid. At the initial fitting, it is common for an audiologist to program a hearing aid lower in terms of gain (volume) to promote an easier transition for the patient. If this approach is taken, the user will likely acclimate to the initial settings in the first few days/weeks so a follow-up appointment is necessary to adjust the settings. It can take consistent wear and gradual increases in gain (volume) to achieve the patient’s best hearing potential. The purchase of hearing aids in Ohio includes a 30 day trial which provides time for the patient to adapt to their new normal.
Personalization and Follow-up are Key
Everyone’s hearing loss and listening preferences are different. Therefore, a discussion of the users listening experiences and needs can help personalize the device and improve performance. Concerns can often be addressed by programming adjustments if brought to the audiologist’s attention. Sometimes a cleaning is all it takes to improve performance with a hearing aid. If programming adjustments and cleaning do not address the concerns, an updated hearing evaluation could be recommended. It is important to monitor your hearing health just as you monitor your general health. If you have not had your hearing aids checked in the last four to six months, give our office a call to schedule a follow-up appointment.
Very nice.
Right on!
Excellent post and so true!!
Appreciate you sharing!
Thanks for sharing! People often do not realize how important follow-ups are. The hearing aids are not going to give you the full experience if you don’t take the time to work with and understand them.
Well said and great point of the importance of follow up care.
I enjoyed reading this Kaylee. Nicely writtena nd especially the part of the importance of helping a patient “adapt to their new normal”. Well done!
The brain getting it is important stuff. One doesn’t realize that we hear with our ears as well as our brains.
It’s not an easy decision for a lot of people and takes a lot of patience and commitment to the patient. Good job.