Welcome to Connect. You will get a lot of information and support here. It's important to know that hearing loss is unique and affects people differently. Your comments about not being able to hear and understand in situations with background noise is very typical though.

Hearing aids can be helpful, but they are not perfect. They also take time to get used to. They amplify sound, which doesn't eliminate background noise. The more sophisticated products that cost more have some options that can help. It's important to have well fitted hearing instruments, especially when they are new to you. It also helps to know a bit about what options are available so you can ask questions of the provider you choose.

I've used hearing aids for sensorineural hearing loss for decades, and have experienced many changes in their technology and options. I strongly recommend that you ask questions about BlueTooth, telecoils, manual controls, add on assistive technology, etc. BT and Tcoils can connect you to sounds you want to hear (phone, TV, performing arts, meeting rooms, worship centers, etc.) Providers should explain these options but sometimes they don't. It takes time to teach.

I always insist my hearing aids have a manual volume control. Some control sound automatically and many people find this to be frustrating rather than helpful. If I'm in a noisy setting I want to be able to turn down the sound, not hope it goes away.

If there is a chapter of the Hearing Loss Assn. of America (HLAA) in your area, you may want to connect with them. I have learned more from other people who experience hearing loss than from anywhere else. I am so thankful. http://www.hearingloss.org is the HLAA website.

There is more research on hearing loss now than there was even a few decades ago. Cochlear implants and bone anchored hearing aids for single sided deafness have made a huge difference for many people.

Keep asking questions. Mine is: Do you have hearing aids now? If so, are they helping you?