Why Doesn’t Grandma (or Grandpa) Wear the Hearing Aids
One might assume that they are just being obstinate or too lazy. In reality, it’s seldom like that. The reason is that there is an underlying problem with the hearing aids. A problem that has not been addressed. Why not? Here are a few reasons why:
Comfort. The aids might make her ear sore. Oh, I don’t want to complain. I tell each patient: Call me if you have any problems or questions. But, sometimes they do not.
Insertion issues. Grandma may have decreasing dexterity, shaky hands or loss of finger pad sensitivity. She may have forgotten the coaching I gave her. Sometimes it is best to change to a different style that is easier to manage.
Sound quality issues. There may be annoying noises that discourage use. She may feel flooded by to much sound in certain places. She experiences less benefit over time. All of these issues can be helped by proper programming.
Feedback. Feedback is that whistling sound that hearing aids produce under certain circumstances. The number one reason is too much ear wax. If they are turned on and held in the hand, one may hear feedback. Therefore, they may feedback while she is attempting to insert them. Or she may have lost flesh in her ear canal. That results in the devices being too loose and causing feedback.
Battery issues. If her aids are battery-powered, she must have a good near vision and adequate dexterity to change batteries.
She lost them. But she may be too embarrassed to admit it. Chances are, she has unclaimed loss benefits that are included with new aids.
One is broken. She may have dropped it on to the floor and…. She stepped on it, a family pet chewed it, or it is simply worn out. Chances are, she has unclaimed damage benefits that are included with new aids.
Regardless, she or he must contact me. And to do it before the warranty ends.