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Hearing Loss: Come introduce yourself and connect with others
Hearing Loss | Last Active: 3 days ago | Replies (1517)Comment receiving replies
This is what I wondered also, Julie! Imagine traveling a long distance and having your HAs be dead by the time you arrived.
Replies to "This is what I wondered also, Julie! Imagine traveling a long distance and having your HAs..."
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Technology keeps getting better, but also more confusing for so many older people with hearing loss. Having batteries go dead has always been a major concern of mine. I've been using hearing aids for many decades, and have kind of grown along with much of the new technology. As a bimodal user of both a cochlear implant processor and a hearing aid, I've had to stay on top of things. However, I am not yet upgraded with the CI to some of the more recent innovations.
One thing that has interested (and confused) me, is when my husband who is now using hearing aids, starts talking. Typically, I look his way, but he doesn't look my way. It takes me a minute to realize he's answered a phone call via his hearing aids. Prior to this, I would usually hear his cell phone ring and know he had an incoming call. Just saying, it's kind of weird.
My cochlear processor has rechargeable batteries. I like that, but there are times I prefer using disposables. Over time, the rechargeables do lose power and although they charge, the charge time gets shorter. These batteries are removable units that charge when they are off the processor. I know that new rechargeable hearing aids do not separate from the battery compartment, and have to be fully placed in their chargers. I can order a new rechargeable battery for my CI processor, although quite costly. ($150+), so I can replace that old one. What does someone do when their hearing aid rechargeables die? Seems to me the entire aid would have to be sent in to be fixed. Being without my hearing devices for days would make me nuts. Can the audiologists fix them at their office?
My Cochlear processor has an option that has been a lifesaver. As a separate 'add on', I have what I've been told is called a 'battery cage'. It allows me to insert disposable batteries into a small sleeve/cage and use that rather than the rechargeable. Strangely, it is not considered a standard piece of tech that comes with the CI processor and must be purchased separately.
Like I said, tech is amazing, but it's very confusing for many who need to use it.
I hope others will share their personal experiences.