Cochlear implants?

[photokath]

I have worn hearing aids since I was 40 (71 now). Just had my hearing tested for new hearing aids and they recommended that I get the test for cochlear implants because I have "profound" hearing loss. Does anyone have them? I don't know that much about them except there is a learning curve. Does anyone have websites that they would recommend? Or any advice?
Thanks!!

[Scottie Mom]

1. Glad you posted this.

I am at the same place you are. Hearing aids no longer seem to do the job. If I turn them up, I just squealing and no better sound quality. I am hoping someone has info on this. I have used hearing aids since my late 40s, early 50s, and am now nearly 75.

I am going to keep watching this thread.

[sdfernando]

2. I too wear hearing aids...for about 3 years now.

I have noticed that my hearing has gotten worse over time although I'm not at the profound state. My Dr. did ask me at one point if I was interested in coclear implants. I might have concidered it at the time if my health ins would have covered it or at least most of it.

[Biophilic]

3. If all goes well I will hopefully be getting an implant in March.

Wearing hearing aids for 22 years, currently 76. Had the initial testing done and my hearing is poor enough that I qualify for Medicare to cover cost. Not cheap. I still don’t know as much as I’d like, but yes I was told there is a 6-9 month learning period with both online and in person training.
Things got slowed down for me because of heart problems as well as family obligations but definitely going to get it if I can.

Two possible websites for info. AdvancedBionics.com and cochlear.com. Very different approach’s with different things offered although you need to see an audiologist to get the details.

[photokath]

6. thanks !!

I've been reading

[Dale in Laurel MD]

4. My yoga teacher has a cochlear implant.

She had to give up her career as a musician because of distortion of pitch and volume, but she has pretty good speech comprehension. Without the implant she had become completely deaf, due to a brain tumor.

[IbogaProject]

5. My mom has profound hearing loss

And of all people her eye doctor recommended it, but she is 92, so not likely to be elidable. He says the change when the clients he has seen before and after is significantly better. So if you can swing it financially go for it!

[Bayard]

7. Bookmarking

I have an appointment with Miracle Ear again tomorrow. Thinking of asking if we can get our $6K back. First, that amount was just outrageous, but Mr. Bayard insisted, and paid for them. Second, I think they're wasted on me. The only time I wear them is when I'm going somewhere, which isn't often.

I lost one last week while I was out cleaning. We looked everywhere. I think one of the goats ate it.

[ret5hd]

8. The goat heard you say that.

[photokath]

10. Local Hospital

I have found that our local hospital is the best place to go for hearing related things. They have an audiology department where I was first diagnosed years and years ago. They are very helpful when it comes to questions and fixing the hearing aids. IF you do get them make sure they are on your homeowners insurance. I have not lost one but my brother has several times and they have covered his.

[Bayard]

11. Well, there's no getting our money back

Because, you know, they're so much more expensive than Costco because their technology is so much better. AND, I'm going to keep losing my hearing and get dementia if I don't wear mine more.

[LuckyLib]

9. A close friend age 72, got a cochlear implants 2 years ago,

after years of hearing aids due to degenerative nerve hearing loss from age 40. She has told me over the years with hearing aids to never buy the cheap ones. The implant process is not easy, and you have to be willing to do anything to improve your hearing. Hearing loss affects relationships and personalities. Period.

She says her hearing has improved with an implant. Read everything you can — books, articles (not just the top two in Google), and join the Hearing Loss Association of America. This helped my husband when he lost half of his hearing due to a virus.

Hope this is helpful.

[Scottie Mom]

12. Thank you.

I am going to do as you suggested.