My memory is that most improvements were within about a year. But it’s also true that over time things sounded more ‘normal’ . Music, for example, seemed to progress toward my memory of it.
I liked bi-modal hearing better than bi-lateral, the sound seemed richer. My second implant also seems to be taking longer than I expected to perform well. That could be because I haven’t put a lot of time in training/rehab activity, or because I’m now retired and it doesn’t get as much social input. And sound quality with an implant doesn’t seem as rich as with an aid.
I guess the sum is that hearing is much more complex than just word recognition. Even with poor recognition, my hearing aid seemed to pick up sound that the implant missed. I suspect that these less quantitative elements are part of the continuous improvement I perceive. Implants have taught me that the brain is a much bigger player in hearing than I first imagined, and brains apparently want to learn.

It's been a while since there have been comments in this discussion. I'd like to add my most recent cochlear implant experience.

While waiting for my Medicare plan to OK my upgrade to the N8 processor, my CI audiologist has allowed me to try a loaner N7 processor. I have been using the N6 processor for 7 years, and my N6 processor was falling apart. (It has now been approved, so I'll be getting the N8 when I can get in for an appointment.)

I'm amazed at how much better I am hearing with the N7, especially in noisy environments. This tells me that the N8 is going to be even better! I have been dependent on using the Mini MIc 2+ with my N6. I don't need to use it as often now. I astounded my family when we were out for dinner recently and I didn't have the mike on the table.

My husband and I enjoy going out and socializing with friends. Yes, I struggle sometimes, but I've learned to cope with it to the best of my ability. I've had progressive hearing loss since diagnosis when I was in college, so this has had an effect on my life in every way possible, marriage, employment, parenthood, etc. Being open to new ideas, technology, etc., and having the opportunity to learn about them has had a significant impact on my well-being.

I'm 81. I had the CI done when I was 65. It has been a miracle from day one, but it did take some time for my brain to adjust to this new way of hearing. It wasn't that long though. I listened to audio books with both the CI and HA while using a neckloop and the telecoils in both devices. That helped a great deal. In fact, within a couple of months I was hearing so well that friends and family members were amazed. Of course, to me, it seemed 'normal' as I had grown up with good hearing. I am still bimodal, using both a hearing aid and the CI.

Are you still hesitant to get a CI?