For some time I had been aware that my hearing was deteriorating and I had difficulty with the TV or at the Cinema, particularly with female voices. Another situation where I had a similar problem was in cafes or restaurants where there was a lot of background noise. A relative of mine enthusiastically told me about her hearing aids and particularly suggested I go for a consultation at Hearing Sense, who she found so pleasant and helpful.
My visit there confirmed how pleasant and helpful they are. The first thing was a discussion of the nature of hearing loss and how it can be helped by suitable hearing aids. Then a hearing test and the nature of my hearing loss was carefully explained and how this can be helped by hearing aids specifically modified for my pattern of loss. I was then shown different types of aids and the merits of each type were discussed and I was shown the type that I thought would suit me. I was then to get a pair of aids adjusted to suit me and have them for a month to trial, obligation free. The details were carefully explained including the costs, arrangements for supplying the batteries and obtaining insurance for the aids in case they get lost or damaged.
When I collected the aids I was shown very carefully how to manage positing them in my ears, how to adjust them, change the batteries, and keep them clean.
I found initially that some rather metallic and sharp sounds seemed to be exaggerated. A check visit had been arranged and the setting was adjusted and the sharp sound is much less noticeable. I tired the aids right away in a couple of noisy restaurants and found an obvious improvement. They also help with the TV but with some voices, especially when the actors drop their voices, I still have difficulty understanding them. Similarly with strong, unfamiliar accents but with both these situations I find other people with me have trouble and they are much younger and apparently have normal hearing.
Throughout the whole process of getting the aids I have been impressed with the friendly approach and the carefully detailed discussion. In no way have I felt pressured to make a decision and I can only commend the service and help that I received from those at Hearing Sense.
