For many years I’ve had problems with my hearing. I was determined to fight the inevitable that I needed hearing aids. That would be admitting that I was old.
Okay I know I’m old and it’s not just older people who need hearing aids but as I grew up in the fifties there was a stigma about anyone with large contraptions hanging from their ears.
I strain to hear my husband talking to my son which means I miss out on much of the conversation and consequently find myself unaware of dates, times etc. I know they are fed up with my answer to everything being ‘What ?’ It does hurt a bit when they make fun of me and respond with a sigh. I’ve tried lip reading, but not very good at it. I use sub titles on tv so that rest of the street doesn’t have to listen to my programmes.
I eventually switched off and stopped listening, socially isolating myself and it’s not a nice feeling. I’ve also learned that this isolation can lead to dementia so if you have a problem hearing, do something about it.
I made the decision and went along to Boots and had a hearing test. Moderate to severe loss in one ear, mild to moderate in the other ear.
The hearing technician recommended hearing aids that are linked to my phone. I can turn the sound up or down on the phone, depending on my environment. They are tiny and discreet and they are silver which matches my hair. I had a trial and walked around Forestside for 15 minutes. I could hear my steps as I walked which was a little disconcerting but apparently my brain will adjust to this over time.
Unfortunately they are expensive but I would have to wait up until 16 months just to get a first assessment with the NHS. As I’m 75 no point in waiting that long so I’m diving into our savings to pay for them.
I get them on Wednesday so wish me luck. If I don’t like them I can return them in 90 days. Hopefully I’ll be picking up sounds that I’ve not heard for a while. I have to admit that sometimes not hearing what’s going on can be a blessing.
CHATTER 