Why do some people hesitate to get hearing aids?

Hearing loss can be a devastating condition that affects not only you but your loved ones, as well. It can change your physical, mental, and emotional landscape as one of your five senses begins to diminish. To combat this, hearing aids were developed in the early 1900's as a means of preserving sound, but some people were and still are hesitant to use them. Why is this the case, and how can skeptics be convinced to get hearing aids?

To understand this, one must approach it at different angles. Common remarks include:

They are too uncomfortable

Any sort of apparatus that you put onto your body is going to feel unnatural, and for many people hearing aids are no exception. They require proper fitting in order to conform to the shape of your ear akin to how glasses are prescribed. Many are made of acrylic, which may feel rigid when first worn. Over time and with a little patience, they will begin to feel like an extension of your body as you experience sound clearly again. In fact, newer models have been developed to reduce rigidity and flow with your ear’s natural curvature for maximum comfort.

They are hard to use

For some, hearing aids are a new piece of technology that have features they’ve never seen before. That can create some nervousness for potential users regardless of their age. However, proper instruction from specialists like those at CEENTA can reduce the learning curve because of their extensive knowledge of the product. Just like learning how to use a smart phone or how to set up a laptop, the benefits of learning how to use a hearing aid far outweigh the amount of time it takes to do so.

They make me “look old”

Unfortunately, hearing aids are often connected with the stigma of “looking old,” which some prospective users want to avoid. They associate that look to that of not feeling young, or at least the perception of it. This is very similar to how glasses were presented years ago. However, many people wear hearing aids at many stages of their life, including athletes, celebrities, and even former presidents. In addition, designs from companies like Phonak offer a modern, sleek look akin to wireless headphones that offer a cosmetic edge to hearing aids.

I don’t want to admit that I have hearing loss

Like the previous remark, many skeptics of hearing aids just don’t want to admit that they need help with their hearing. This is a natural response to a life-changing event, no matter if it was progressive or sudden, and getting hearing aids may feel like completely changing your lifestyle. However, the opposite could be said: hearing aids can allow you to stay connected to the world around you without limiting your day-to-day activities. In fact, they can enhance your interactions with friends and family as you experience new sounds in a constantly harmonic atmosphere.

When it comes to hearing aids, the consultation process is just as important as the technology itself. That’s why CEENTA offers comprehensive hearing screenings to determine the root cause and lead you to the treatment options you need. Schedule your appointment today and hear the CEENTA difference by calling 704.295.3300.

This blog is for informational purposes only. For specific medical questions, please consult your doctor. To schedule an appointment with a CEENTA audiologist, call 704-295-3000.