New confidence and socialization skills I didn't know I was missing ❤️
I didn't realize before having HAs how little confidence I had in my ability to hear people. In social situations I would often nod and smile when I couldn't hear. In a way I was being secretly antisocial, pretending to be a part of the conversation and often asking my husband later to repeat things that I missed. It was an isolating feeling but I was pretty used to that.
Well I've had my HAs for 9 months and they are dramatically changing my life! At a very noisy brewery this weekend I heard EVERYTHING people said to me. I proactively used the buttons on my HAs to raise and lower the volume when needed. I had much more in-depth conversations because I could actually participate.
I also started taking in-person Spanish classes, which has been a goal of mine for many years but I felt, what's the point, I won't be able to hear the teacher talking! Ahora aprendiendo español y eschucho mi maestra muy bien haha :)
I was really against HAs for over a decade, and once I got them I hated the way they felt. It took a long time for my brain and ears to adjust. But I am so grateful for them now. I'm starting to understand why social isolation can be an issue for people who are HoH, I didn't even realize I was already falling into that category and avoiding situations due to my ears.
I hope your HAs are helping you and improving your life!
PS: Here's a pic of me feeling cute with my HA chains ❤️