“It’s nice to know it doesn’t end when you put in your new hearing aids.”

Hearing loss often affects our loved ones just as much, if not more, than ourselves before we recognize the symptoms.

This was definitely the case for Nancy, as she explains, “I was outside with my husband working on the garden. He was frustrated that I couldn’t hear him. I didn’t realize how much I relied on watching someone speak to pick up on what they were saying. He was turned away from me. This was the first time I realized how frustrated he was and had been. I was only in my 40s, so it wasn’t even on my radar.”

When Nancy came to the realization that she needed to seek help for her hearing challenges, she was hesitant due to the stigma still attached to hearing aids.

“I wasn’t very excited about a big plastic blob in my ear…vanity! This was before the beautiful and really invisible models out today.”

Nancy soon realized that today’s hearing technology has advanced leaps and bounds since she first remembers them as the clunky and “big plastic blobs” they once were.

The thought of today’s sleek and modern devices encouraged her to address her hearing loss at South Sound Audiology.

Here’s what Nancy thought when she first visited Julie.

“I remember the office visit clearly. Julie was so caring and understanding. She was able to give me such clear step-by-step information on what she was testing for and how it would impact both my life, but also how your brain gradually adjusts to sound.”

Nancy goes on to explain what made her decide to get hearing aids and what impact they have had on her quality of life.

“I decided early on, even with the big plastic blob! I wanted to be present for my family and not miss out on life. For me, it’s really about quality of life, and my husband has a clear understanding of my limitations now that I have done everything I can do to improve my hearing. I love the new hearing aids.”

“They not only look and feel like nothing is there; they can connect to my cell phone, my TV has a box I can connect to if need be, and I have so many options for adjusting sound if I am in restaurants or large groups. I am happy to hear to the best of my ability, and to be honest, most people are surprised I even have hearing aids.”

From Nancy’s story of her journey to better hearing, it’s hard to understand why anyone would delay treatment, but here’s what she has to say for anyone considering the first step toward healthy hearing and a better life.

“Just do it!!! You will be happier than ever when you aren’t missing out on conversations. Julie is South Sound Audiology. I have followed her for 20 years and wouldn’t go anywhere else. She is genuine and is up to date on the latest in the technical/brain interactions and how it all works. Sometimes, I like the science of it all!

“You can be assured she will take care of you, with compassion, the latest knowledge, and the very important follow-through. It’s nice to know it doesn’t end when you put in your new hearing aids. Follow-up is crucial…”