When I First Noticed Changes in My Hearing

I first noticed hearing issues post birth of my first baby in 1998. I could not hear her cry despite being in the next room. An ENT was unable to help and referred me to an audiologist for hearing aids, which assisted tremendously. Another noticeable drop in hearing after my second baby suggested the significant change in hormones was damaging my hearing.

Initially, I had a mild to moderate hearing loss from low to high frequencies. In the intervening years, and particularly since commencing menopause, my hearing has deteriorated to be currently a severe to profound loss, with no hearing at 4000hz and above and an overall loss of greater than 90%.

How Hearing Loss Affected My Daily Life

As I was the manager of 60 staff spread over 6 sites throughout NZ, I relied on the telephone to communicate with staff. As my hearing deteriorated, so did my ability to communicate effectively. Watching TV or going to the movies was challenging and I was missing so much dialogue, nothing made sense.

As my hearing loss was worse at high frequencies, I had difficulty hearing my children — parenting is hard enough without misunderstanding what your children are saying.

Taking Action Early

I got hearing aids as soon as my audiologist recommended them. Starting with CIC aids, I progressed to ITE, then BTE. As technology developed I adopted everything I could — microphones, TV connectors, closed caption devices at movie theatres, subtitles on television, and video phones.

Technology improvements have made a tremendous difference in my success and enjoyment of life.

Why I Chose Hearing Aids

Getting hearing aids initially was a no brainer — why wouldn’t I get hearing aids if they helped me to hear? As other technology devices became available, I happily embraced everything that could help.

Why I Chose Hidden Hearing

I have been to several audiology clinics over the years, particularly as I have moved countries and cities. My previous clinic stopped selling Phonak aids. Due to my now profound hearing loss, my audiologist conceded that she was no longer able to assist, as none of the brands they sold were suitable.

After researching clinics around the city, I selected Hidden Hearing as it was a multi-generation family operated business. Once I met Alex, I knew it was a good decision. Whilst all audiologists I’ve dealt with have been caring, Alex’s critical thinking approach to assisting me hear better is the point of difference.

First Impressions at Hidden Hearing

Such a warm, welcoming clinic. Every staff member is friendly and helpful.

My Current Technology

I’m currently using the Phonak Audeo L90 RIC Bluetooth-enabled rechargeables with both a Roger On and personal microphones.

Adjusting to New Hearing Aids

Every new pair of hearing aids has needed an adjustment period and tweaking. Every hearing loss is unique and every person “hears” differently.

The standard manufacturer adjustments for my hearing loss are not effective. The advantage of having an audiologist like Alex is her ability to think outside the square and make adjustments to improve my hearing experience. Yes, it takes time and sometimes lots of testing, but the results are worth it.

How Hearing Aids Changed My Life

Hearing aids enabled me to be a successful manager. They allow me to be part of social occasions, participate in discussions, enjoy movies and engage with friends.

With my latest Phonaks, I was able to enjoy music and make phone calls — for the first time in a decade.

A Moment I’ll Never Forget

One wonderful benefit of using all the available technology devices is that my friends demand the mic when we meet up. They — and I — notice how much better our communication is using the mic. If there’s more than one person, I use the Roger On. Occasionally someone will grab the Roger and talk directly into it as they notice me missing the communication.

My Advice to Others

I would say: keep trying. Keep talking to Alex about what you are and are not hearing. Try out the other technology devices available. Yes, everything has a cost and it adds up — but the benefits are worth it.

“Hearing” is exhausting. It’s okay.