Getting new hearing aid - maybe Oticon Opn S BTE PP - thoughts?

Good Morning - I know my husband calls me a nag and as a woman with so many experiences - I do tend to point out my observations. Since I walk the same path as you all do, I see this all from many angles, but mostly from my own speed bumps. I do like to complain a lot too and my caregivers, physicians and family hear it but I also turn around and do something about it. I may be retired from wearing too many hats as a 'superwoman', I wanted to know as much as I could about those things that were and are effecting me, and where my position is in the grand theme of things. I only reflect on issues that are specific to what I know. I can not comment on anything else, other than to encourage others to speak up and step in for yourselves because no one else will. Where I am right now is because I decided to step out of my comfort zone and do and say things that are on my mind. I am my maternal grandmother who lived through the 1918 flu epidemic and knew a thing or two. I can't change that but I am feeling better than I was years ago.

Don't mean to scold you all - just pointing out the good things you all are doing and need to continue to do. Yes - there are good as well as undermining dealers out there but as a consumer, it is our position to connect, find out who will vouch for and with us. We can spread the word about who will help us and who will not by connecting with one another. Asking what the hearing aid dealer can do for you is paramount to finding your answers. Follow the website jsterkensaud suggested above - because it has a wealth of information that will give you clues and answers. I went to the site and learned a lot.
I will be referencing from it for our HLAA Chapter just because of it helps answers the multitude of questions out there. I even wrote down a few things for myself....maybe do that too! Its worth looking at many times over because I saved it on my computer!!! Eloise

@nurseheadakes
You’re my kind of woman! I agree with your philosophy. We tend to speak out more often as we age although some people need more filters .....I’ve stepped on a toe or two but not in a malicious way. My daughter is very much like that and my son is more diplomatic but both agree that you are the one who has to take control, strive to learn and understand things as they relate to you and others, and then change the circumstances if you can. You can’t just sit back and expect good things to happen.

Just a small soapbox today
Regards from Florida Mary

I like the hard edge. I know it was with a good heart . Do not forget you were in the medical field . It is amAzing what folks expected to know enough- do not. It is important with aids, meds, products... to do research on it. It is amazing what one of my meds is not good for mixing aspirin and the other doc says do it but baby aspirin. And I saved my life last year by seeing my test results on a back MRI that found a small mass on my kidney. I saw the results before primary and back doc . They learned to do things a little diffenty. Cancer caught early and no issue. Gallbladder surgery on the 22 Nd though- ah. Nerve wrecking. Very active and body falling apart. The point is be a warrior for yourself.

You are my kind of Florida Mary...since I also just moved to FL myself. It takes courage and willingness to speak up for yourself. If a situation isn't right - then see if you can change it. Rather than feeling bummed...we can reach for the fruit out on the branch and eat it. Thanks Mary from FL!

Well you go Ms Booksue...You will do fine as you have been doing. Its always better when there are four eyes instead of two eyes. The right time for the right reason, for the right situation. Having access to electronic medical records so that you can interact with your providers and see your results is another good way to be a great consumer. Any kind of speed bump or change in your life is difficult - such as surgery, a new disease or a change in your life that came out of the blue. Remember, we live one day at a time. Today is what we are given. Focus on this day and what you can do for yourself. Tomorrow will come soon enough. Eloise

I'm a newbie. I just discovered this forum a few days ago. Thanks to all offering help.

Well, I went to the audiologist that is connected with my ENT. Perhaps that wasn't a good idea. Live and learn.

She said she liked these best, perhaps she gets some kind of incentive or really does believe they are better.

Is going to a Hearing Aid store any better? If so, any recommendations?

The OPNs work better than my last pair of Oticon's (5 years old). The high frequencies are much better and I find myself saying "Huh", "Pardon Me" or some equivalent less often.

I ended up getting the rechargeable batteries. It's convenient, I just park the aids in the charger overnight, but I find the batteries don't quite last all day. That is a disappointment. If I take them out and recharge for a half hour or 45 minutes they might last until I go to bed. I'm usually up 16-18 hours. I don't need a whole lot of sleep and I take a little power siesta in the afternoon.

As much as these cost me, they need to last at least another 5 years so I guess I'm stuck with them.

And I'll probably pay for them again with wax filters and replacement domes.

I need a good game plan for next time.

Bob

@bobbyboomer
Hi,

My current Audi is connected to my ENT practice and she is one of the best I have had. The Audi I had about 15 years ago was with the same ENT practice and she was awful. I have been to independent Audi’s and hearing aid techs who have there own business and also Audi’s associated with Hospitals. Been wearing aids for 40 plus years.
Even the best Audi’s are biased towards certain brands. I suggest you stay away from hearing aid stores as they rebrand older models of aids and are really in the business to hard sell aids.

Now that you have been through the process you will know what to do next time. It’s difficult when you have no one who has experienced hearing loss to go with you the first time. I would gladly go with anyone who is going on this journey because I have been there.
That’s why local clubs and these online forums are so important. Everyone can give you informed information.

Regards from FL Mary

Thanks Mary.

Bob (also in FL)