If you find yourself straining to hear in crowded places or saying “What did you say” more often than you used to, you probably need a hearing aid. If despite the strain, you tell yourself that your hearing’s fine, you’re not alone. A whopping 80 percent of adults between the ages of 55 and 74 who would benefit from a hearing aid do not use them, according to the International Journal of Audiology. (Take this quiz to find out if you might need hearing aids.)
Why wouldn’t you correct your hearing, the same way you correct your vision if you can’t see well enough? People have a variety of reasons. Some have tried hearing aids before and complain about discomfort or difficulty handling them, or disappointment that that they’ve failed to restore their former sense of sound. Many haven’t even tried them, because they don’t want to wear something associated with “old.” For a lot of people, expense is an issue. But most people don’t realize the profound damage that uncorrected hearing loss can do to your physical, emotional and cognitive health. Studies have associated being hard of hearing with poor general health, mood disorders—even shorter lifespan.
Hearing Loss and the Brain
In a study that tracked 639 adults for nearly 12 years, Johns Hopkins expert Frank Lin, M.D., Ph.D, and his colleagues found that mild hearing loss is associated with a doubled risk of dementia. Moderate loss tripled risk, and people with a severe hearing impairment were five times more likely to develop dementia.
The fact is that hearing is not only a function of the ears, but of the brain itself. Not being able to hear well reduces stimulation of the auditory centers of the brain, and that can lead to an actual reduction in gray matter. People with uncorrected hearing loss are also more likely to withdraw from social life, which leads to increased loneliness and depression, which also increases the risk for Alzheimer’s. It’s a vicious cycle.
Straining to hear, Dr. Lin finds, may also lead to what he calls “cognitive load” or mental fatigue, and that kind of subconscious multitasking could contribute to the fact that hearing loss dramatically increases your risk of falls. Another reason is the mechanism of balance: As you walk, your ears may pick up subtle cues that help with balance. Hearing loss may mute these important signals.
Still resistant to the idea of hearing aids? Let’s take a look at the reasons for not wearing them. In every case, there are ways to get around the problem.
Pick Your Hearing Aid Problem
With new hearing technologies and consumer avenues for buying the hardware and audiologist services, many of the issues that people have with hearing aids can be remedied. We’ve explored the main reasons why so many older people deal with uncorrected hearing loss and offer some ways you might get around them. Pick your problem—and share your hearing aid problem in the poll at the end. (If we haven’t covered your issue with hearing aids, let us know in the comments section.)
1. Hearing Aids Are Too Expensive
THE PROBLEM You probably assume that hearing aids cost thousands of dollars—and generally, you’re right. Only a handful of companies manufacture hearing aids, which may be keeping prices high, and on the provider side, you’re paying an unknown amount to the audiologist for services, because traditionally, hardware and service have been “bundled”—they come as a package from the same provider.
THE ANSWER Times are changing. More audiologists are “unbundling” service from hardware, making it possible for you to compare prices and pay for only the services you’re getting. This is a new trend that many audiologists are resisting—just ask the audiologist whether she or he unbundles.
When it comes to hardware, there are bargains out there—especially with the new online-only options available for hearing aid purchase and, for people with mild hearing loss, the even newer hearables (not technically hearing aids) that are becoming available for as little as $300. Check out our story about how to find a good deal.
2. Hearing Aids Are Unattractive
THE PROBLEM Many people who really need hearing aids resist because they’re embarrassed to be seen wearing them. “If I wear these aids I’ll really start to look old!” said one respondent to an online query about the issue. It’s bad enough that my hair is totally gray.”
THE ANSWER Those ugly pieces of hardware that cover the entire ear canal are rarely prescribed today. In the past few years, new technologies have enabled hearing aid manufacturers to shrink their products so much, they’re virtually invisible. The most common versions—behind-the-ear models—are completely obscured by the top of the ear. In-the-ear hearing aids are totally invisible.
Hearing aids today aren’t just tiny, many are super techy, too. They can stream music, phone conversations and more from your smartphone and let you customize your hearing experience via a paired app. These are not your father’s hearing aids. But if even a barely visible, bluetooth enabled hearing aid isn’t an option, see if a hearable works for you. These high tech earbuds come without a prescription and both amplify and manipulate sound, as well as streaming audio, and while they’re in their infancy now, at least one model might make a difference for people with mild hearing loss. Yes, earbuds are visible—but everyone wears earbuds.
3. Hearing Aids Don’t Help
THE PROBLEM Studies show that a primary reason for what’s been called “hearing aid in the drawer syndrome” is wearer complaints that the device doesn’t provide enough benefit—they still can’t distinguish speech in noisy environments; they experience poor sound quality or hear too much background noise.
THE ANSWER There are several solutions to sound quality issues. If you can afford the latest technology, newer hearing aids like the Oticon Opn and Widex Beyond do an amazing job of distinguishing speech from background noise. Their multiple processors mimic the brain’s ability to hear sound. They’re also adjustable via a smartphone app for volume, directionality and audio environment, among other variables.
Less expensive hearing aids can provide solid benefit, too, if you can adjust your expectations: You can’t simply put in a hearing aid and expect to hear like you once did. “Older people, especially, who’ve been losing hearing over the years haven’t heard many sounds for a long time,” says Kari Lane, assistant professor of nursing at the University of Missouri. “They put hearing aids in and can hear sounds they haven’t heard for years and experience sensory overload. They get overstimulated and can’t tolerate it.”
In response, Lane came up with the Hearing Aid Reintroduction Program, or HEAR. To remedy hearing aid in the drawer syndrome HEAR uses a workbook (soon to be an app) with a 30-day schedule that increases wear time daily to help you adjust to your hearing aids. The program has had a 80 percent success rate with Lane’s group.
Lane’s tips:
- Take it slow. Start by wearing your hearing aid for an hour a day and increase one hour every day. Introduce new sounds daily.
- Keep persisting. Your brain has to relearn how to hear and make sense of sounds, and the only way to do that is to be exposed to those sounds.
- Accept limits. Hearing aids are just that—an aid—and deciphering speech in a noisy environment will always be difficult. Focus on one person and don’t expect to hear more than one person at a time.
- Keep going back to your audiologist until you’re satisfied.
It can take four months to get used to hearing aids, according to the makers of Starkey hearing aids, whose site has some helpful suggestions.
4. Hearing Aids Are Uncomfortable
THE PROBLEM When it comes to comfort, unrealistic expectations are an issue. You don’t put in contact lenses and get used to them immediately. Similarly, you have to wear hearing aids for a while to acclimate to the feeling of having something in your ears. Eventually you may get so used to them, you’ll forget to take them off.
THE ANSWER The site HearingHealthMatters.org provides several tips for getting comfortable with your hearing aid, including making sure it’s well inserted and not trying to remedy pain in the ear by pulling the hearing aid out a little; it’s not going to help and in fact, it’s likely to increase the irritation. The site also recommends lubricating your ear canal by gently rubbing a little baby oil in and around it with your finger. You can even put a little of the oil on the hearing aid itself before you insert it, as long as you keep the lubricant away from the opening of the sound tube.
5. Hearing Aids Batteries Are Hard to Handle
THE PROBLEM If your manual dexterity or eyesight isn’t what it used to be, handling a hearing aid can be a stumbling block—and the smaller the hearing aid, the greater the barrier, especially in the battery department. Batteries are tiny, and getting them into a miniscule hearing aid can be impossible for someone with arthritis or poor eyesight.
THE ANSWER To address this issue, more manufacturers are coming out with rechargeable hearing aids that you can simply drop into a charger every night. Here’s a report on which type of battery hearing aid wearers prefer and which rechargeable hearing aids are available right now. If a rechargeable battery is not feasible for you due to expense or length of battery life (some of the older versions may have a short battery life), here are some other fixes:
- Get a “low profile” hearing aid that’s molded to fit in the curved outside “shell” of your ear. You won’t get the benefits of invisibility, but since low profile designs are large enough to accommodate features like directional microphones and manual controls (a volume wheel and push-button for changing programs), they’re easier to handle.
- Practice manipulating the batteries and hearing aid insertion in your audiologist’s office and then at home. After enough practice, almost anyone can do it.
- If feasible, ask a friend or relative with better dexterity to change the batteries for you—they only have to be changed once a week or so.
6. Hearing Aids Are Easy to Lose
THE PROBLEM Hearing aids are tiny and can fly off when you’re exercising or even getting undressed. People tend to take them off, put them down wherever they’re sitting and lose track of them.
THE ANSWER Some high tech hearing aids today, like those made by ReSound and Starkey, come with an iPhone locator app. Either way, consider buying insurance for loss. And always put them in the same place each time you take them off, even if you have to get up off the couch. Treat them like diamond earrings and you’ll be less likely to lose them.
Here’s a good article on taking care of your hearing aids.
7. Hearing Aids Make Me Feel/Look Old
THE PROBLEM We live in an ageist culture and want to ignore the fact that we’re getting old. You may blame others for not talking loud enough or talking too fast—or you blame theaters for keeping the volume too low.
THE ANSWER Get over it! Maybe the link between hearing loss and Alzheimer’s will convince you that it’s worth getting the most out of the life you’re living by being part of the conversation and hearing every bar of music, every beautiful sound that your world makes.
Do you need hearing aids? Take this quiz and find out.
This article was written/produced with the support of a journalism fellowship from New America Media, the Gerontological Society of America and the Silver Century Foundation.
COMMENTS
48 responses to “The Problem with Hearing Aids—and the Solutions”
I wonder after reading this other article: (https://icnr.com/ articles/potential-dangers-of-hearing-aids/) if is there any danger from the electromagnetic frequencies (EMF’s) given off by hearing aids? There doesn’t seem to be much discussion or scientific evidence around this topic.
Has anyone out there actually got their Hearing Aids insured? I am unable to do so despite trying numerous insurance companies. I’m reluctant to wear mine especially outside in fear of losing them. I wear a bicycle helmet, bicycle glasses, two pair of eye glasses (one for long site one for short) and of course, face masks for Covid. Because of this I have misplaced them several times before and it stresses me out to think that I’ll permanently lose these very expensive aids. A response would be greatly appreciated!
Having problems with Costco aides
Have to to get them reprogram i guess
that’s what you call it two months now
don’t like them.
I have been wearing aids for thirty years because I am profoundly deaf due to Otosclerosis . After reading all comments I notice no one complains of not hearing well while using aids on a phone. I am wearing Starkey aids that fit within the earshell and these aids make all kinds of weird noises until fiddled with after insertion, taking up to five minutes to get corrected sometimes. No other brands have ever given me this problem. My audiologist says I will not be able to hear on the phone with behind the ear model. These cost me more than 4,000. for the pair.
I have a set of DaVinci CIC aids that I have been trying to wear for a year now.
These are top of the line aids (retail $13,600) that have 24 channels to adjust for whatever hearing loss is needed.
I have been back and forth with my audiologist every couple of weeks adjusting them to get them to perform as desired and no luck.
I constantly get an echo when trying to talk to someone, crowded rooms I still cannot understand conversations, so hearing aids apparently are not always the remedy, at least for me.
If someone knows how to deal with moderate loss (women and soft voices), I am in need of help.
It is true, but nowadays hearing aids are getting more and more sophisticated and betters. Gone are the days when you have to wear that bulky over the ear hearing aids.
I did not know that having hearing issues could lead you to get dementia. As far as I remember, my uncle has never treated his hearing problems. I will recommend him to look for a hearing clinic so that he can treat his problem.
Most HA manufacturers lie about benefit for low frequency loss. To test the theory, feed your audiogram result into the manufacture’s software and find that the target gain recommended does nothing for low frequencies. This is due to a problem with feedback at those frequencies. However, they will still sell a useless product to you, knowing full well that the occlusion effect will make low frequency loss worse and the HA will do nothing except increase high frequencies. This is because old age loss is usually high frequency, which is where the market lays. This is where medical necessity and capitalism is seen at its worse, an area where privatisation of medical services causes failure. There is no profit in trying to solve the problem, especially since they will mislead you into buying a product that will not help and your units will end up in a drawer.
I’ve been profound deaf and still wear my old Sumo XP hearing aid. I’ve been tested over and over with the newest technology HAs, they don’t work well with my level of hearing loss. But the XP still works better than the new technology ones.
I so agree. I have low frequency loss and my hearing aids only make the background noises louder, cancelling out the low frequency sounds/voices.
Thank you for your comment. I have been to three audiologist. My low frequency loss is lower than what you would find for voices. I am totally deaf in one ear due to an operation, so noise control is a huge issue for me.
You have described the problems I have been experiencing with audiologists selling hearing aids. The distortion of sound and increase in noise is a major problem for me.
Thanks for the suggestion to start by wearing hearing aids for an hour a day or so and slowly increasing by one hour per day. My husband has been losing his hearing and is to the point where he has difficulty understanding when people talk to him. He is worried that hearing aids will be uncomfortable, so he’s been hesitant to get them. I think slowly acclimating to them would be a great idea. We’ll have to start looking for a hearing clinic in our area to further explore this option.
I like that you mentioned that even if you can’t afford the latest technology in hearing aids, there are still other cheaper options that will still do a very good job at helping users hear things. I’ve been losing hearing in one of my ears and I think that I need a hearing aid. Your information will be helpful as I talk with my doctor about hearing aid options.
It’s a good thing that there are many hearing aids that are no visible. My dad really needs aids but complains about how they look. I will inform him about today’s new technology in hearing aids.
My husband’s family is convinced that hearing aids just don’t work for his mother who is showing advancing stages of dementia. She has a respected audiologist and also a senior counselor who are very helpful, but after frequent visits it seems no one is addressing the possibilities that a significant part of her dementia is her brain’ s reaction to not hearing,
Do hearing aids not work for everyone?
I like the analogy this article uses that compares glasses and hearing aids. My parents are getting older and now require reading glasses. Soon they may need hearing aids. I’m sure this information will be helpful for them in making a decision on the course of action that they should take.
None of the above. Since October (this is March of 19), I have been driving through traffic every two weeks, trying a “new” aid, all have had, along with a few other glitches that could be remedied, the SAME problem. They don’t fit. Not the in the ear, not the newest, over the ear. They only way I can hear is with my finger pressing it (them) deeper into the canal. My hearing loss is severe, must rely on this aid (other ear is deaf) – I’m so tired of this!!!
My probkem is that they are large and I have to stick them way in my ear to fit at all. Now they are constantly getting stuck in my ear and they don’t have any smaller ones! I have to find people to help me get the out all the time. It’s the only way I can wear them though. Help!
You may have to try behind the ear hearing aid.
Your tip about putting a little oil on the hearing aid itself before putting it on can make the experience more comfortable. My granddad is a bit wary of getting a pair for himself, and I would think he’ll even get more discouraged if he finds the hearing aids to be uncomfortable. I’ll be sure to let him know that there are ways that we can do to make his life with hearing aids more viable. Thanks!
I have been wearing hearing aids for more then 30 years– and I have had in the ear moulds that long– I find them uncomfortable always– and the itchy ears drive me crazy– I have only used phonax ? and have wanted to change brands- but I keep getting the same advise– that this company is the one that has the least amount of problems?? I am only 66 yrs old– I really need a solution to the constant itching//// I did try the same company bot over the ear- with wire in the ear– still itchy— and in a crowd-or wind cant hear anything/////Has anyone found a solution to itchy ears yet– I would love to hear it???
I wear phonak hearing aids. I have read that wearing hearing aids consistently will help your brain adjust better. IS this true for single sided hearing loss?
I was really excited to finally be getting hearing aids, because my hearing is not very good, and verbal communication is a big part of my job. Finally, my insurance would cover something that would actually improve my daily life! I certainly don’t care about feeling “old,” and the hearing aids are practically invisible anyway.
My problem is that they so far don’t help at all, and in fact make things worse. They’re designed to pick up higher-pitched sounds, which is where my hearing loss is the worst, but unfortunately in real life all I hear with them in is dishes banging and babies crying. They don’t make it any easier to understand speech, which is what I really need.
But I’m new to using them, so I’m open to trying new things. Maybe my follow-up visit to the audiologist will turn up something to help. I’m also going to try wearing just one, to see if that helps. This is all an experiment, I guess.
My costco kirkland hearing aids cause me pain * itching. Don’t want to return them, but if the problems cannot be resolved, I will return them before the trial period ends.
Check with your ENT. You may have an ear infection. Itching is a telltale sign.
Thanks for the tips for wearing hearing aids. I like how you said that I just need to get over the problem of feeling too old. The truth is, I am kind of old, so it shouldn’t be a problem to get these aids!
I got my first pair of hearing aids (ReSound) 5 weeks ago at COSTCO.
I have hardly used it because (a) it keeps popping out even when I
am not doing anything strenuous; (b) I am therefore terrified of
losing one or both as I do not even notice that the thing has
popped out. I have the over-the-ear model. Please help!
Thank you!
Alexandra 28 May 2018
You may need new ear tips. Go back for a re-fit.
My problem is that while it has improved my ability to hear other people, which pleases my wife, it also has greatly improved my ability to hear noise and other things I don’t want to hear. Hearing the dogs barking and dishes clanging and the TV in the other room are not good things what I’m trying to watch TV in the living room. I don’t really want to hear my daughter’s telephone conversation in the Next Room, I don’t want to hear my wife yelling at the dogs.. for my own personal use I would be better off with $100 headset watching TV than a $6,000 pair of hearing aids.
I am 30 years old and have been wearing hearing aid for over 10 years now. One problem that is not addressed in the article is the fact that mine (and most aids) are not water proof or even water resistant. I have to be careful in the rain, camping, boating, kayaking, swimming; all of these things are out of the question for me. They are typically very social activities, so if I don’t have my aids it makes it very difficult to interact with others, if I do have them than I am worried about damaging them the entire time. I can’t even go for a jog or do anything out doors without worrying about sweat getting into them.
get an Eargear cover for the hearing aid(s) from your hearing aid center.
Sounds exactly like my problem – hearing all the noises I don’t want to hear. I have misophonia issue – look it up, there’s more info out there now on this than before, including how hearing aids add to that problem. For certain people, certain sounds or loud sounds in general – drive them up the wall.
ISO someone who has worn hearing aids for a while and who can explain some of the problems i’m having as well as some solutions. Have had poor hearing for 40 years or more but seems lately to be worse. The VA gave Phoniac aids which worked great for a couple weeks. Have been back several times so they can fix them or fix me! (ear wash) Sometimes hear well at bedtime and hear very little next morn. What types exam or repairs can i do myself without wasting the audiologist’s time?
That is really cool that hearing-aids today aren’t just tiny, but they can do things like stream music, phone conversations, and more. I know that my dad has been really hesitant about getting a hearing aid. I bet if he knew that they do those types of things he would be more excited. I will have to let him know!
VA has issued me at least 4 different styles of hearing aids and the type I use now is Phonak. They have their own charger so don’t need batteries. That said, I still have problems. The right one gives me so much feedback, I’ve given up on that one and only use my left. IT delivers a feedback others pick up on and say, what’s that and I say it’s my hearing aid.
My cousin urged me to have cochlear implants but don’t really want any more holes in my head, thank you very much.
I probably miss stuff a lot, but friends don’t seem to mind.
I lost my hearing at 35, so this isn’t a senior issue. I refuse to wear over the ear because this is my personal
Choice. Also, I ask the audiologist to turn the volume high so that I can hear. I am called a super wearer because I want to hear everything. Please don’t be passive when it is your life quality.
If you can’t understand speech with the hearing aids you have then you have the wrong hearing aid or the wrong doctor. I have profound hearing loss in both ears and have 8 pairs of hearing aids four different brands in the last 25 yrs. I always had problems understanding voices in noisy situations and even two people talking at one time but I understood people dramatically better with each aid. My last aid lasted me 10 yrs before I got my new ones this year. But let me say my new ones which are ( I don’t want this to sound like an advertisement for widex) the widex beyond 440 are unbelievable, I can here speech in noisy situations such as party’s and restaurants. I also can understand more than one person that are talking at the same time, I have never been able to do either with my old aids. Another plus is the Bluetooth which I would recommend to anyone that needs aids and can afford the BT. Its amazing being able to listen to music in stereo and to hear a person on the iPhone in both ears without everyone else hearing my conversations because the column was set to high. I could go on an on but people get the right aid and the right doctor and you will hear more than 95% of everything.
Tim, I also have the Widex Beyond 440’s and agree with your comments.
I would like to add that when I first got them, I have frequent issues with the streaming function. At the time I was using them with an iPhone 6+. A lot of connection problems, having to manually reconnect them to the phone, etc.
When I switched to the new iPhone X with Bluetooth 5, all of those problems went away. Since Bluetooth 5 allows multiple connections at the same time, the conflicts between the Beyond 440’s and my car stereo and other items connecting to my phone via Bluetooth went away.
Now, everything just works.
Hope that helps anyone struggling with Bluetooth capable hearing aids using a phone with the older versions of Bluetooth.
Times are changing and so are hearing aids. There are a lot of modern hearing aids today that looks invisible and it’s barely noticeable in the naked eye. It can be tailored specifically to the person who needs to wear it. I got mine from a Professional audiologist and got the invisible one. It is by far the best thing I wore.
Over the past decade I’ve had ReSound, Oticon, Phonak, and Starkey hearing aids. (Yep, that’s well over $20K of UNINSURED medical device cost). I’ve worked with three different audiologists. I still can’t really understand speech on a consistent basis. If you think poor hearing leads to anger and depression; try spending a fortune on devices and getting no acceptable results. I don’t care if I look old; I know I need help with hearing; I don’t care how they look. I just want to be able be able to engage in a conversation.
I’m happy for those who find that hearing aids work for them. For me, they’ve left me unable to understand my wife, my grandchildren and forced early retirement because I can’t communicate with my customers. And, of course, the audiologists act like I’m doing something wrong. I’m sure that the hearing aids work perfectly when they’re at their conventions in Vegas or Key West.
By the way, the claims about reducing background noise and differentiating speech from noise, etc are BS. If you suppress the frequencies that reduce noise, you also reduce the full range of sound that is speech. So the noise goes down and the speech becomes muddled.
For those who get their hearing aids and wax poetic about hearing birds for the first time in years, tell me about understanding your spouse or your client.
I agree with you Gary. My expensive Miracle Ear didn’t help much with improving distinguishing speech, but, they helped me hear with other sounds which are not important to me.
Gary, I have had hearing aid since I was 34 due to hearing damage in the military. So I have 30 years experience as a hearing aid user. I would agree with your comment about filtering out noise until my current Widex Beyond 440’s.
In the Party program I hear very well in noisy environments with lots of people. I often suspect that I am hearing better than most of the people with normal hearing. It is still challenging sometimes in noisy places, but it is for people not using hearing aids too.
For what it is worth, this model also has the best wind noise suppression I have ever heard. Compared to any of my previous aid (all the top of the line at the time) these are awesome. Before I struggled to hear people talk over the wind noise. Now the wind noise is low to nonexistent and I can clearly have a conversation.
You can get a 30 day free trial most places. You should give them a try.
I hope you found this information helpful.
There are many reasons I do not like my hearing aids. I no longer worry about appearing “old” because at 84 I AM old, but to write “… The most common versions—behind-the-ear models—are completely obscured by the top of the ear.” is incorrect…they ARE visible, and wearing glasses compounds the problem. I understand that my hearing will not be “perfect” but I miss my music…it will never sound the same and I’ve limited any social functions because conversations with more than one person are not possible, I can only understand the person next to me. It’s exhausting trying to make sense of what people are talking about. I’d much rather stay home and read a good book.
I’ve been wearing hearing aids for over seven years and have spent far too much money on them…seems an upgrade is necessary every few years. This last pair I bought at Costco and they have been very good about helping with adjustments. I have a ‘remote’ that’s supposed to help with different environments but it’s not too effective, and TV is impossible without closed captioning. I wear them dutifully and am happy that I can at least hear the birds singing. I don’t intend to buy another pair.
Another problem that no-one seems to address is earwax formation. I never had a problem until I began wearing hearing aids. Clearing your ears isn’t something one can do on their own so where does one go to have them cleared?…another doctor’s appointment. I seem to have a particular problem with one ear…but that’s another story. Hearing loss is just another part of growing old and I accept it…but I sure don’t like it.
I have Siemens hearing aids, they are computer programmed. I have not the top of the line but fairly high up on the expense ladder. There were some daily exercises that I did for 30 days to help my brain reconnect to sounds that I’d been missing. I do notice that I can hear more things but some noises are so loud I can hardly stand them while some voices are still difficult to hear and people want to talk quietly or whisper and I can’t hear them with or without the aids. I put my hearing aids in a charger overnight so batteries aren’t often a problem. The warranty expired before I realized the aids weren’t working correctly. My hearing specialist is knowledgeable but I feel that he expects me to know how the aids should work or not work. They are a piece of new technology and he understands it but I don’t. And since they weren’t working as they should, useable but something with the volume and on/off capability is the issue. Anyway he suggested that I purchase a new pair…these work so not another several thousand dollar investment. I don’t go back for adjustment too often because I simply don’t care for the audiologist attitude/personality. So I wear what I have and when I don’t and I’m at a meeting or meet up I miss much of the conversation I leave wishing I had remembered to wear them. Hearing is better, but not perfect and I’m making an effort to wear them more when I go out in public.
Yes, earwax buildup is a problem. I’ve experienced it first hand. Didn’t have a problem going in according to the Costco person. Ears looked clean. After increasingly experiencing a muffled world without hearing aids, and the aid domes not fitting properly because of too much wax buildup – the Costco person checked my ears and said I had a huge wax buildup – the domes prevent the natural exiting of the ear wax. So need to go to the doctor to have cleaned. I am not sure I want to wear these things if they create a new problem for me as seems to be the case now.
I have them. I have been using them for at least seven years. I love mine. I was missing a lot without them. I would not be without them now. I am about to purchase a new set.
I love my hearing aids, since I do need them. Not only can I hear much better, but I have also learned that lack of them can add to dememtia. Having a social life again more then pays for my Starkeys. Being 84, I am just sorry that I Waited so long. The service you receive men’s a lot, so shop around. Thank you for the above article. More people should read it.
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Internet of Things: Entertainment
Internet of Things: Entertainment
This lecture will explore the many ways we interact with IoT on a day-to-day basis and take a look at how it’s revolutionizing entire industries.
Songwriting Night
Songwriting Night
Join Senior Planet and singer/songwriter Maggie Rothwell to discuss the art of songwriting.
4 events,
4
Morning Stretch
Morning Stretch
Start your day with a short morning stretch!
eBay & PayPal
eBay & PayPal
This lecture provides an overview of the popular auction website eBay and the pioneer online payment service PayPal.
Tech Discussion Group – Lunch & Learn
Tech Discussion Group – Lunch & Learn
Come discuss different topics related to the latest technology trends and news.
Instagram Posts & Stories Demo
Instagram Posts & Stories Demo
Registration required.
Move over Facebook – we’re creating posts and stories on Instagram!
4 events,
5
Morning Stretch
Morning Stretch
Start your day with a short morning stretch!
Intro to Selling Online
Intro to Selling Online
This lecture will introduce you to different online platforms for selling all kinds of items, including furniture, clothing, household items, and more.
Aging Discussion Group – Lunch & Learn
Aging Discussion Group – Lunch & Learn
Join this Aging Discussion Group to have open conversations about aging.
Intro to Gaming
Intro to Gaming
Game on! Come discover the world of gaming and start playing!
0 events,
6
0 events,
7
14 events,
8
Good Morning, Senior Planet!
Good Morning, Senior Planet!
Start your week off right with a preview of the week's upcoming programs and a guided meditation session!
Morning Stretch
Morning Stretch
Start your day with a short morning stretch!
Affordable Home Internet
Affordable Home Internet
This lecture goes over basic information you need to know when signing up for home internet service.
Fit Fusion Workout
Fit Fusion Workout
Get your heart pumping during this fun, high-energy workout!
Mandarin Multilingual Technology Program: 介紹: 關於 Zoom 的一切 (All Things Zoom)
Mandarin Multilingual Technology Program: 介紹: 關於 Zoom 的一切 (All Things Zoom)
瞭解如何使用 Zoom 與家人朋友聊天以及參與 Senior Planet 線上學習!
16 events,
9
Stronger Bones
Stronger Bones
Activate the joints and muscles and increase mental focus during this exercise class.
Morning Stretch
Morning Stretch
Start your day with a short morning stretch!
Telemedicine
Telemedicine
This lecture provides an overview of telemedicine options and focuses on exploring virtual medical appointments with your doctor in real-time.
Graphic Design Tools
Graphic Design Tools
In this presentation, we'll explore the popular design platform, Canva, and demonstrate how you can get very creative with basic tools like Google Slides.
Meal Kit Services
Meal Kit Services
Don't want to cook? Learn about meal kit services that take the stress out of meal time!
12 events,
10
Morning Stretch
Morning Stretch
Start your day with a short morning stretch!
Introduction to Hosting on Zoom
Introduction to Hosting on Zoom
In this introductory lecture, we'll go over what you need to start your first meeting, as well as some hosting tips to make it a success.
圖工具介紹
圖工具介紹
您會修圖嗎?快來發掘修圖工具的無限可能!
Fit Fusion Workout
Fit Fusion Workout
Get your heart pumping during this fun, high-energy workout!
Intro to Photo Editing Tools
Intro to Photo Editing Tools
Can you photoshop that? Come learn the possibilities with photo editing tools!
14 events,
11
Balance/Strength
Balance/Strength
Activate the joints and muscles to become limber and increase balance during this exercise class.
Morning Stretch
Morning Stretch
Start your day with a short morning stretch!
Crowdfunding for Entrepreneurs
Crowdfunding for Entrepreneurs
This presentation will explore crowdfunding—fundraising by gathering small amounts of money from large numbers of people—online.
iPhones
iPhones
In this lecture you’ll learn about the latest iPhone, its features and what to consider if you’re thinking of buying one.
Cancelled – Chair Yoga
Cancelled – Chair Yoga
Follow various cues to develop body alignment and breath awareness.
11 events,
12
Morning Stretch
Morning Stretch
Start your day with a short morning stretch!
All Things Zoom
All Things Zoom
This lecture will go over how to use Zoom to chat with friends & family, and take virtual classes with Senior Planet!
YouTube
YouTube
YouTube le permite ver y compartir videos gratuitos de diferentes temas. Le mostraremos cómo empezar la búsqueda para disfrutar de ellos.
Taijiquan (Tai Chi)
Taijiquan (Tai Chi)
Relax your mind and strengthen your body with this gentle exercise class.
Food Delivery Apps
Food Delivery Apps
Learn about the pros and cons, how to search for new restaurants, and how to leave a tip and rating.
0 events,
13
0 events,
14
15 events,
15
Good Morning, Senior Planet!
Good Morning, Senior Planet!
Start your week off right with a preview of the week's upcoming programs and a guided meditation session!
Morning Stretch
Morning Stretch
Start your day with a short morning stretch!
Functional Strength Training
Functional Strength Training
Use bodyweight, bands, and dumbbells to build your strength.
Online Health Resources at a Glance
Online Health Resources at a Glance
Learn how to evaluate health-related information online.
Mandarin Multilingual Technology Program: 介紹: 圖工具介紹 (Intro to Photo Editing Tools)
Mandarin Multilingual Technology Program: 介紹: 圖工具介紹 (Intro to Photo Editing Tools)
您會修圖嗎?快來發掘修圖工具的無限可能!
16 events,
16
Stronger Bones
Stronger Bones
Activate the joints and muscles and increase mental focus during this exercise class.
Morning Stretch
Morning Stretch
Start your day with a short morning stretch!
Protecting Your Personal Info Online
Protecting Your Personal Info Online
Learn how to stay safe while you surf the web!
Internet of Things: Smart Cities
Internet of Things: Smart Cities
Coming to a city near you! Come to this lecture to learn more about how smart cities are taking shape.
Introduction to A.I.
Introduction to A.I.
Come chat with ChatGPT and learn about A.I.!
14 events,
17
Morning Stretch
Morning Stretch
Start your day with a short morning stretch!
Google Maps
Google Maps
During this lecture, you’ll get an introduction to Google Maps and a demonstration of how to use it.
Fit Fusion Workout
Fit Fusion Workout
Get your heart pumping during this fun, high-energy workout!
翻譯工具簡介
翻譯工具簡介
借助數位翻譯工具,讓全世界觸手可及
Online Travel Sites
Online Travel Sites
Learn the basics of using online travel sites to find the best fares and rates for just about any destination.
13 events,
18
Balance/Strength
Balance/Strength
Activate the joints and muscles to become limber and increase balance during this exercise class.
Morning Stretch
Morning Stretch
Start your day with a short morning stretch!
Introduction to Nextdoor
Introduction to Nextdoor
This presentation will introduce you to the most common uses for the Nextdoor app and its main features, along with some best practices for using it safely.
Anti-Virus & Malware Removal Programs At a Glance
Anti-Virus & Malware Removal Programs At a Glance
Concerned about viruses and malware? Attend this lecture to learn how to keep your device safe!
Chair Yoga
Chair Yoga
Follow various cues to develop body alignment and breath awareness.
10 events,
19
Morning Stretch
Morning Stretch
Start your day with a short morning stretch!
Drones
Drones
¡Descubra por qué cada vez hay más drones volando en los cielos!
Intro to Smartphone Photography
Intro to Smartphone Photography
Say cheese! Learn more about your smartphone's camera.
Taijiquan (Tai Chi)
Taijiquan (Tai Chi)
Relax your mind and strengthen your body with this gentle exercise class.
Cloud Storage
Cloud Storage
Learn the basics of cloud storage — a technology that lets you store documents, images, and other media files remotely.
0 events,
20
0 events,
21
14 events,
22
Good Morning, Senior Planet!
Good Morning, Senior Planet!
Start your week off right with a preview of the week's upcoming programs and a guided meditation session!
Morning Stretch
Morning Stretch
Start your day with a short morning stretch!
Intro to Translation Tools
Intro to Translation Tools
This lecture will introduce digital translation tools and apps, such as Google Translate.
Functional Strength Training
Functional Strength Training
Use bodyweight, bands, and dumbbells to build your strength.
Fit Fusion Workout
Fit Fusion Workout
Get your heart pumping during this fun, high-energy workout!
15 events,
23
Stronger Bones
Stronger Bones
Activate the joints and muscles and increase mental focus during this exercise class.
Morning Stretch
Morning Stretch
Start your day with a short morning stretch!
Mobile Health Apps
Mobile Health Apps
This lecture introduces common health apps, like the iPhone's built-in app and the Google Fit app.
Digital Tools to Boost your Business
Digital Tools to Boost your Business
Learn about online tools to jump-start your start-up.
Everyday Uses of AI
Everyday Uses of AI
Everyone is talking about AI! Come to this class to see how AI is part of everyday life.
12 events,
24
Morning Stretch
Morning Stretch
Start your day with a short morning stretch!
Virtual Tour: Stockholm, Sweden
Virtual Tour: Stockholm, Sweden
Join Senior Planet and our tour guides from Discover Live for a virtual visit to Stockholm, Sweden!
Fit Fusion Workout
Fit Fusion Workout
Get your heart pumping during this fun, high-energy workout!
AI 人工智能簡介
AI 人工智能簡介
快來和 ChatGPT 聊天,了解 A.I.!
Virtual Museum Tours
Virtual Museum Tours
In this lecture we'll explore some of these virtual galleries, as well as digital tools that help bring art, architecture, and history to life!
14 events,
25
Balance/Strength
Balance/Strength
Activate the joints and muscles to become limber and increase balance during this exercise class.
Morning Stretch
Morning Stretch
Start your day with a short morning stretch!
Intro to Managing Your Privacy
Intro to Managing Your Privacy
Concerned about privacy? Unsure about accepting cookies? Come learn about some essential privacy tips!
Drones
Drones
Learn why more and more drones are taking to the skies!
Mindfulness Apps
Mindfulness Apps
This lecture introduces mindfulness and its physical and mental benefits, such as reducing anxiety, improving memory, and lowering blood pressure.
10 events,
26
Morning Stretch
Morning Stretch
Start your day with a short morning stretch!
Introduction to Estate Planning Resources & Tools
Introduction to Estate Planning Resources & Tools
A simple plan is better than no plan! Get to know a few free and low-cost resources that make it simple to plan your estate.
Podcasts de un vistazo
Podcasts de un vistazo
¿Quiere adquirir información en una forma auditoria? Le mostraremos la manera de hacerlo con los podcasts.
Taijiquan (Tai Chi)
Taijiquan (Tai Chi)
Relax your mind and strengthen your body with this gentle exercise class.
P2P Payment Services
P2P Payment Services
In this lecture, you’ll learn about some of today’s most popular P2P payment services, including PayPal, Venmo, and CashApp.
0 events,
27
0 events,
28
15 events,
29
Good Morning, Senior Planet!
Good Morning, Senior Planet!
Start your week off right with a preview of the week's upcoming programs and a guided meditation session!
Morning Stretch
Morning Stretch
Start your day with a short morning stretch!
Functional Strength Training
Functional Strength Training
Use bodyweight, bands, and dumbbells to build your strength.
MyChart
MyChart
Learn how MyChart can help you keep all your health information in one place, communicate with your providers, and have a virtual visit.
Fit Fusion Workout
Fit Fusion Workout
Get your heart pumping during this fun, high-energy workout!
12 events,
30
Stronger Bones
Stronger Bones
Activate the joints and muscles and increase mental focus during this exercise class.
Morning Stretch
Morning Stretch
Start your day with a short morning stretch!
Smartphones at a Glance
Smartphones at a Glance
How smart are they? We'll tell you all about smartphones.
Introduction to Learning Apps – Languages & The Arts
Introduction to Learning Apps – Languages & The Arts
This presentation will introduce you to apps that help you learn different languages, explore the arts and art history, and even show you how to play instruments.
Chair Yoga
Chair Yoga
Follow various cues to develop body alignment and breath awareness.
8 events,
1
Morning Stretch
Morning Stretch
Start your day with a short morning stretch!
Virtual Tour: Chevreuse, France
Virtual Tour: Chevreuse, France
Join Senior Planet and our tour guides from Discover Live for a virtual visit to Chevreuse, France!
Fit Fusion Workout
Fit Fusion Workout
Get your heart pumping during this fun, high-energy workout!
Functional Strength Training
Functional Strength Training
Use bodyweight, bands, and dumbbells to build your strength.
Easy-to-Follow Tai Chi
Easy-to-Follow Tai Chi
Move, breathe and flow during this gentle, slow, flowing form of exercise
8 events,
2
Balance/Strength
Balance/Strength
Activate the joints and muscles to become limber and increase balance during this exercise class.
Morning Stretch
Morning Stretch
Start your day with a short morning stretch!
Chair Yoga
Chair Yoga
Follow various cues to develop body alignment and breath awareness.
Strength and Stability
Strength and Stability
Maintain your independence by staying strong and stable!
Tech Discussion Group – Lunch & Learn
Tech Discussion Group – Lunch & Learn
Come discuss different topics related to the latest technology trends and news.
4 events,
3
Morning Stretch
Morning Stretch
Start your day with a short morning stretch!
Taijiquan (Tai Chi)
Taijiquan (Tai Chi)
Relax your mind and strengthen your body with this gentle exercise class.
Aging Discussion Group – Lunch & Learn
Aging Discussion Group – Lunch & Learn
Join this Aging Discussion Group to have open conversations about aging.
Finding Purpose, Wellness, and Community After 60
Finding Purpose, Wellness, and Community After 60
Join this ongoing conversation about the challenges of life transitions, aging, culture, health and more. Make new friends and share stories about your experiences in life.
0 events,
4
Morning Stretch
Introduction to Learning Apps – Languages & The Arts
Open Discussion – Lunch & Learn
Digital Coupon Tools
Morning Stretch
Video Chat
Tuesday Talks – Lunch & Learn
Intro to Smartphone Photography
Morning Stretch
Virtual Tour: Bahia, Brazil
Wellness Wednesday – Lunch & Learn
Internet of Things: Entertainment
Songwriting Night
Morning Stretch
eBay & PayPal
Tech Discussion Group – Lunch & Learn
Instagram Posts & Stories Demo
Morning Stretch
Intro to Selling Online
Aging Discussion Group – Lunch & Learn
Intro to Gaming
Good Morning, Senior Planet!
Morning Stretch
Affordable Home Internet
Fit Fusion Workout
Mandarin Multilingual Technology Program: 介紹: 關於 Zoom 的一切 (All Things Zoom)
Stronger Bones
Morning Stretch
Telemedicine
Graphic Design Tools
Meal Kit Services
Morning Stretch
Introduction to Hosting on Zoom
圖工具介紹
Fit Fusion Workout
Intro to Photo Editing Tools
Balance/Strength
Morning Stretch
Crowdfunding for Entrepreneurs
iPhones
Cancelled – Chair Yoga
Morning Stretch
All Things Zoom
YouTube
Taijiquan (Tai Chi)
Food Delivery Apps
Good Morning, Senior Planet!
Morning Stretch
Functional Strength Training
Online Health Resources at a Glance
Mandarin Multilingual Technology Program: 介紹: 圖工具介紹 (Intro to Photo Editing Tools)
Stronger Bones
Morning Stretch
Protecting Your Personal Info Online
Internet of Things: Smart Cities
Introduction to A.I.
Morning Stretch
Google Maps
Fit Fusion Workout
翻譯工具簡介
Online Travel Sites
Balance/Strength
Morning Stretch
Introduction to Nextdoor
Anti-Virus & Malware Removal Programs At a Glance
Chair Yoga
Morning Stretch
Drones
Intro to Smartphone Photography
Taijiquan (Tai Chi)
Cloud Storage
Good Morning, Senior Planet!
Morning Stretch
Intro to Translation Tools
Functional Strength Training
Fit Fusion Workout
Stronger Bones
Morning Stretch
Mobile Health Apps
Digital Tools to Boost your Business
Everyday Uses of AI
Morning Stretch
Virtual Tour: Stockholm, Sweden
Fit Fusion Workout
AI 人工智能簡介
Virtual Museum Tours
Balance/Strength
Morning Stretch
Intro to Managing Your Privacy
Drones
Mindfulness Apps
Morning Stretch
Introduction to Estate Planning Resources & Tools
Podcasts de un vistazo
Taijiquan (Tai Chi)
P2P Payment Services
Good Morning, Senior Planet!
Morning Stretch
Functional Strength Training
MyChart
Fit Fusion Workout
Stronger Bones
Morning Stretch
Smartphones at a Glance
Introduction to Learning Apps – Languages & The Arts
Chair Yoga
Morning Stretch
Virtual Tour: Chevreuse, France
Fit Fusion Workout
Functional Strength Training
Easy-to-Follow Tai Chi
Balance/Strength
Morning Stretch
Chair Yoga
Strength and Stability
Tech Discussion Group – Lunch & Learn
Morning Stretch
Taijiquan (Tai Chi)
Aging Discussion Group – Lunch & Learn
Finding Purpose, Wellness, and Community After 60
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