Kathy Allen
Lyons, NY
“Don’t wait. Life is short, and you do not want to feel isolated or silly if you misunderstand.”
How and when did you first realize you were experiencing hearing loss?
I have been a hearing aid wearer for 10 years. I am a very social person and was having trouble following conversation around a table, in a restaurant and the family complained that the TV was too loud.
Where did you first go for information or help? Why?
My daughter. She tested my hearing and fit me with state-of the art hearing aids that fit behind my ear with a tiny tube into the canal. They were very comfortable, and nobody knew I had them. I started to see the benefits right away.
Based on your experience, do you have suggestions for others on how and where to start? Any other important things for them to consider?
Since I am very active, I wanted to the best technology available. My daughter’s knowledge and experience were so helpful. I highly recommend that you consult an audiologist for testing, counseling, fitting and follow up.
What was your biggest concern about hearing aids? Did that turn out to be true?
Remembering to put them in every morning. I have a routine that I follow so that I don’t forget.
How have hearing aids changed your life? How do they help you at your job, in your hobbies or at volunteer activities?
I volunteer with a quilting group and now I can hear everyone in my circle. I can follow conversation with my family at functions. Before, I started to feel embarrassed when others laughed, and I did not catch the joke. Now I am back to being part of the group.
What would you tell someone who is considering hearing aids?
Don’t wait. Life is short, and you do not want to feel isolated or silly if you misunderstand. My daughter the audiologist told me it also helps my brain because I started as soon as I knew there was a problem.
Which ReSound Hearing Aid(s) do you have?
ReSound LiNX 3D