All. The. Sounds.

Summary

A first-time hearing aid user reflects on their transformative experience, from initial reluctance to the joy of rediscovering sounds and the potential health benefits.

Abstract

The author, encouraged by their daughter and current research linking hearing loss to dementia, visits an audiologist and is fascinated by the process. Despite initial discomfort with the amplified sounds, they decide to invest in hearing aids, which prove to be affordable and life-enhancing. The hearing aids not only improve their ability to engage in conversations but also allow them to enjoy environmental sounds like birdsong. The devices offer Bluetooth connectivity, enhancing their daily activities, and the author is pleased with the improvement in their quality of life and looks forward to better communication with their family.

Opinions

The author was initially skeptical about the necessity of hearing aids despite the test results showing hearing loss.
There is a noticeable discomfort with the new sensory experience at first, particularly with the sound of their own voice.
The author values the importance of hearing in maintaining mental health, as indicated by recent studies.
The decision to get hearing aids is likened to previous investments in vision correction, suggesting a pragmatic approach to health.
The author expresses satisfaction with the additional features of the hearing aids, such as Bluetooth connectivity and the ability to stream music.
There is a profound appreciation for the rediscovery of everyday sounds, which significantly enhances their daily experiences.
The author's family, particularly their children, are relieved and supportive of their decision to use hearing aids.

Thoughts from a brand-new hearing aid user

A couple of weeks ago, I went to an audiologist to have my hearing tested. My daughter (Mother of The Magical Creatures) had been urging me for some time to get my hearing checked out. She wasn’t so much annoyed at repeating herself as she was concerned for my future mental health. Current research has uncovered an unsettling link between hearing loss and dementia.

I was met with friendly and kind staff at the audiologist recommended by my healthcare insurance company. While they do not cover the cost of hearing aids per se, they are contracted with local audiologists to provide discounts on appropriate products. My hearing test rendered no surprises for me. My left ear had a greater deficit than my right ear — i.e. my good ear. But the right ear also had lost its ability to differentiate a number of sounds, especially certain letters in speech patterns.

The whole experience was fascinating, and I learned a lot in a very brief amount of time. And even though I was staring at hard data right in front of me, I was still on the fence whether I truly needed hearing aids. But then, the audiologist allowed me to try on a pair.

At first, I hated the sound of my own voice. Everything was too loud — I could actually HEAR the man scratch his pant leg. It was sensory overload, and I leaned even further into not purchasing the aids. However, that changed as soon as I took them off. My world hushed back into muffled sounds. I felt as though someone had placed a sound-dampening headset over my ears.

I found I missed the sound. All. The. Sounds. that I had just been exposed to. Even the scratching of a pant leg.

I decided to invest in my hearing the same way I had invested in my sight. I was in the fourth grade when I began wearing glasses. I was 16 when I got my first set of contacts. Needing to enhance my hearing the same way I enhanced my vision was a no-brainer. It was a quality-of-life decision.

The hearing aids were surprisingly affordable. The price included the hearing test and initial fitting, with multiple follow-ups as needed. The audiologist even cleaned my ear canal out during that initial fitting. I was taught how to care for the devices. They were linked via Bluetooth to my phone — so not only would I be able to adjust them from an app, I could use them as air pods to listen to music or talk on phone calls. I have used them for both at this stage and couldn’t be happier.

But the loveliest thing about my new hearing aids was this: when I first stepped outside the audiologist’s office to go to my car — I heard birds. All. The. Birds. I can’t remember when I enjoyed birdsong so much. It was clear and beautiful. I smiled all the way home.

And speaking of that drive home, I sang along with the radio. And perhaps for the first time in my life — I heard my own voice. It seems that I can carry a tune after all. With a bit of bionic assistance.

The devices are so tiny as to be invisible. I am getting used to having something in my ears, although I can still feel them at this point. It reminds me of having a new watch — it just takes a while for the sensations to ease so you don’t notice them.

Both my kids are very relieved I took this step. I look forward to my next visit with The Magical Creatures and not missing a single word they share with me. And even though I was hesitant at first, I’m so very glad I spent the time and money to invest in my hearing and my future mental health.

Namaste.

One of the most sincere forms of respect is actually listening to what another has to say.— Bryant H. McGill