Cochlear Implant Experiences

I hear that in almost every post, but don't understand exactly what that means. While I assume it means that sound is SO different with implants, that recognizing words or sounds without clues is not possible. I have the impression that it a little like learning a new language. If I didn't know what hombre was but was shown a picture when I heard the word, I would eventually associate hombre with man and with time never have to "translate" it.

So exactly what was the change you experienced immediately after implantation? Did speech change to something more electronic? Jerky? off pitch?

The other ear would not have had this, so I also assume reconciling the differences in sound quality is also a challenge.

Help me understand this change better.

Thanks Tom, why have you decided on the cochlear inc. brand, and what information helped you with this decision?

I have had my CI now for over a year. I am so happy I did it. I never felt that anything was daunting. It's a new learning curve but I had no problems doing my exercises or going through speech therapy. I am 84 years old and I am still and always will have problems in noisy settings. It's something that I have learned to live with. I still get out and mingle with people rather than stay at home. I don't go to the movies but usually find what I want to watch on Roku with my apps.

I have an appointment with a CI audiologist in a couple of weeks. I have a 90% hearing loss in my right ear from an acoustic neuroma. I will, eventually, lose all the hearing in that ear. I know very little about the surgery, brand choices, adaptation. I am at the very beginning of the learning curve.

I would appreciate any insight, information, support before I make the decision, assuming I am a candidate.

What is the status of your hearing in the ear that isn't affected by the acoustic neuroma?

My other ear has a 30% hearing loss. I have tried 3 sets of hearing aids without success. That's a different story. I always have people walk or sit on my "good" side.

Has anyone ever suggested that you try a bicross hearing aid? It includes a basic hearing aid that is a receiver to a transmitter placed on the 'deaf' ear. Sound is transmitted to the good side so you can hear from both sides. That worked for me for several years.

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?

My apologies for being absent. This spring has been a crazy time for me between travel and other distractions. I really appreciate all the wonderful input I've received here. i also appreciate the time a half dozen people spent with me on the phone and Cochlear for connecting me with those individuals. Re the adjustment period, the people I spoke with ranged from "What adjustment? I could understand everything almost immediately." (bimodal) to "It took quite a while and a lot of work."(bilateral).

I have consulted with both my former long time audiologist and with Mayo. The consensus is that while an implant holds a promise to help me, I should exhaust the hearing aid option first. I've ordered a pair of the latest and greatest for a trial. If that makes enough of a difference, I may stay with that option for the foreseeable future. If not, I will proceed with the implant, probably in the fall.

I'm not suggesting closing out this thread; just providing an update. I'm still interested in people's experiences and I see others here are as well.

Tom

@tlehman There is a lot of interest in cochlear implants. Currently, I'm attending the national convention of HLAA in HOT New Orleans. Thankful for air conditioning!!!

Also thankful for all the wonderful information I'm picking up at the convention. A panel of cochlear implant manufacturers who are involved in research and development was on yesterday's schedule. It's fascinating to see changes, upgrades, etc. It is amazing to realize how far this technology has come in the past 40 years. Many of the convention attendees already have cochlear implants. Others are seeking information about them. No doubt about it, that it helps a great deal to share experiences with others. Glad that MCC can do that.