Here are some issues you should keep in mind as you develop appropriate expectations about what your hearing aids can and cannot do for you:
Restore hearing. No matter how technically advanced, in most cases hearing aids cannot restore your hearing to normal, except in some very mild hearing losses.
Types of hearing aids. Not all hearing aids perform the same with every type of hearing loss. Do not expect your friend’s hearing aid brand or style to work for you.
Hearing in noise. No hearing aid has been designed that will filter out all background noise. Some can reduce amplification of some types of background noise or make you more comfortable in the presence of noise. The best solution for improving speech in noisy situations is hearing aids with directional microphones. When directional hearing aids are coupled with digital signal processing, you can be assured that your hearing aids are optimized for improving your quality of life.
Sounds. Hearing aids should allow you to: (1) hear soft sounds (child’s voice, soft speech) that you could not hear without amplification; this is part of the enjoyment of hearing aids; (2) prevent loud sounds from becoming uncomfortably loud for you – very loud sounds that are uncomfortable to normal hearing people may also be uncomfortable for you.
Whistling and feedback. It is normal for hearing aids to whistle when you insert them into your ear. If it squeals after the initial insertion, then most likely you have an inadequate fit, and should tell your audiologist.
Expect benefit. Expect your hearing aids to provide benefit to you. Understanding of speech has improved in the situations important to you (within realistic expectations). This is what you hoped for, and you should expect benefit. If you do not experience an improvement, work with your audiologist to see if the instrument can be adjusted to meet your specific needs.
Satisfaction guarantee. Expect to be satisfied with your hearing aids; expect the quality of your life to improve due to your hearing aids. Expect a 30-day trial period with a money-back guarantee if your hearing aids do not give you benefit.
Adjustment period. Give your hearing aids a chance, being sure to follow the instructions of the hearing healthcare provider. Most people need a period of adjustment before deriving the maximum benefit from their hearing aids (even up to four months).
Patrice Rifkind, M.S., Nola Aronson, M.A., and Ginny Newman, Au.D. of Audiology Associates can show you how these devices could help you.
For more information, please call 661-288-1400.