Realistic Expectations

If your hearing loss has progressed to the degree that you need hearing aids, a critical factor in their success is your understanding and acceptance of realistic expectations of their capabilities. Hearing instruments, regardless of brand or type of technology can never replace normal hearing in all listening situations.

Here are some guidelines, which should help us agree on a set of realistic expectations for you.
 

How much benefit can I expect?

Guideline: The extent to which the lost hearing function can be restored through amplification is based on the severity and duration of your hearing loss.

Automatic adjustment?

Guideline: Digital hearing aids prevent normally loud sounds from becoming uncomfortable and will actively reduce background noise.

  
What style is best for me?

Guideline: The more severe your hearing loss, the more likely you are to need powerful hearing aids in order to provide room for larger amplifiers and other components.

Improved communication?

Guideline: Hearing aids should allow you to understand speech more clearly, with less effort, in a variety of listening situations.

  
The world is a noisy place !

Guideline: With properly fitted hearing aids, you should be able to hear many normal sounds that you may not otherwise be able to hear clearly, such as the words of a loved one or the voice of a client. You may also begin to hear sounds you have forgotten were a part of your world, such as the hum of the motor on your refrigerator or the buzz of your fluorescent lights.

  
Practice makes perfect! 

Guideline: You will need time to get used to your new hearing aids to learn how to achieve maximum performance from them.
  

A hearing loss is more noticeable than a hearing aid !

Guideline: Hearing aids should keep others from noticing your hearing loss.

  
Your hearing aid audiologist has the same goal as you!

Guideline: To find a way to help you reach the best possible hearing improvement. Using the most sophisticated testing and assessment equipment science has to offer and the availability of the latest hearing aids from all the major manufacturers. We pledge to do our best to meet a set of mutually agreed-upon objectives and expectations.