Hearing aids in but still not understanding words

They make adjustments to the hearing aids each time.

It might help to have an audiogram comparison done when tested without your hearing aids and with them. Especially if they are relatively new.

Did your audiologist test you with your hearing aids on?

Did you ask for a copy of the audiograms created for your hearing loss? You are entitled to that information.

I was prescribed hearing aids recently. I really don’t notice much of a difference in my hearing. I have an appointment with my Audiologist on Monday. I will discuss other options including returning the hearing aids.

@ricksonz10
Good plan! New hearing aids often need adjustments at first.
Also ask questions about your hearing loss - what sounds are more difficult for you to hear, are there changes in your environment that would help.
I have returned hearing aids before - we 'just didn't get along'! And was very happy with the replacement.
Sometimes, in different environments, you need to turn up your hearing aids.
Hopefully, you will get the answers and suggestions that you need to adjust to this new world.

Your situation is not uncommon. If your ears have not been sending sound signals to your brain for a long while your brain forgets those sound signals and must re-learn them. That can take weeks.

My first hearing aids gave the same thing that you’re experiencing. Then I saw a different audiologist who said that those first hearing aids were way underpowered for me and got me ones that were much better. Hearing aids don’t “fix” hearing loss. They only make it better. So, yes, go back to your audiologist until you’re satisfied. If you’re still not satisfied then go to a different audiologist. Audiologists don’t all have the same skills for setting up hearing aids and people react differently to hearing aids and hearing aids don’t all work the same. It’s complicated. Stick with it.

You are getting good advice. Another thing to remember is that audiologists give you a trial period. During that time, it's important to try those new hearing aids in all possible places where you usually do things. If they are not helping you at all be sure to get back to the provider before that trial period ends so you can return them. That varies and will be in the fine print in the agreement you probably signed when you left the fitter's office.

Most audiologists in private practice give you 30 days, possibly 40. That may not be long enough to do all you will want to do. There are some that allow 60 days. Costco allows 180 days. I mention this only because you don't want to miss that deadline.

Hearing technology of all kinds makes it necessary to adapt to hearing a different way. Some people are fortunate to be able to adjust faster than others.

Where are you in your trial timeline?

Thirty days. I am still wearing them after 25 years.

Hearing loss is an invisible disability. If your behind-the-ear earmolds do not fit correctly, it may affect your hearing ability. Also have your check your battery.

I’ve been wearing hearing aids for two years. How do you cope with hyperacusis and manage some hearing without exacerbating the hyperacusis? It’s a terrible balancing act for me.

Tell your audiologist about your problem with not hearing words. Do not wait until the 30-day trial is over. You are supposed to listen to the words or else the hearing is not fitting your hearing loss. If the trial is over complain now.