Dan Mendez
Elmendorf, TX
“At all times protect your hearing, for example using any type of power equipment, or listening to music that’s amplified.”
How and when did you first realize you were experiencing hearing loss?
I was diagnosed with a hearing loss in the right ear at my discharge from United States Navy in 1973. From that time on through the 80s and 90s I suffered from a little bit of hearing loss. I slowly began increasing the volume of television mainly, so I could hear it and from my experience I could not sit close to a live band nor speakers.
Where did you first go for information or help?
The Veterans Administration audiologists in 2004.
Based on your experience, do you have suggestions for others on how and where to start? Any other important things for them to consider?
At all times protect your hearing, for example using any type of power equipment, or listening to music that’s amplified.
What was your biggest concern about hearing aids?
Background noise. It’s so much better now that I can use Bluetooth.
How have hearing aids changed your life? How do they help you at your job, in your hobbies or at volunteer activities?
This is my fifth set of hearing aids, three from the VA and two I’ve purchased. The set I’m using at present is the best so far! I need them for all my activities I do!
What would you tell someone who is considering hearing aids?
Wear them if you need them; because it can take years of experience and adjustments to get used to wearing them.
Who is your hearing care professional?
Veterans Administration