Pamela Dase
Wilmington, Ohio
“I really believe that you should have the best that you can afford, especially today when hearings aids do so much more than just amplify sound to improve the quality of life.”
How and when did you first realize you were experiencing hearing loss? What problems was that causing in your day-to-day life? Did you seek to hesitate care? Why or why not?
I realized that I couldn’t hear telephone conversations. Then, being a high school math teacher, I realized that the boys in the back row weren’t really mumbling; I just couldn’t hear them. I probably struggled with this for a year or two, but I realized that I couldn’t do my job well unless I addressed my hearing loss. I think I was not worried much about any stigma attached to hearing aids for two reasons. One, I was a dedicated teacher and proud of my work with students. Two, I’d worn glasses all my life and they are much more intrusive than hearing aids. I got LASIK for my eyes and hearing aids for my ears.
Based on your experience, do you have suggestions for others on how and where to start? Any other important things for them to consider?
My first effort was not good. I had an audiologist who thought she knew what I wanted—something invisible. This was in 2000, and the hearing aid was not adequate. I returned them; I lost $100 but I knew this was not right. After a few months, I found another audiologist who fitted me with hearing aids that were in the ear and more visible but they worked. The next set were RIC (receiver in the canal) and wonderful. I have continued to purchase the most advanced hearing aids available over the years. I really believe that you should have the best that you can afford, especially today when hearings aids do so much more than just amplify sound to improve the quality of life.
What was your biggest concern about hearing aids? Did that turn out to be true? How have hearing aids changed your life?
My biggest concern was being able to live a normal life. As hearing aids have evolved, that has been more and more true. With today’s hearing aids, there are many advantages. I can hear stereo music, enjoy a meal in a noisy restaurant, go to a football game or a concert and enjoy the surroundings. I am now retired, but they allowed me to continue my teaching career.
What would you tell someone who is considering hearing aids?
No one realizes how much you’re missing. When I was in my audiologist’s office last week, having my new ReSound OMNIA hearing aids fitted, I was sitting there with no hearing aids for about 30 minutes. It felt like a sensory deprivations chamber. Do not hesitate.
Which ReSound Hearing Aid(s) do you have?
ReSound OMNIA