Was looking for something else and ran across this old thread.
I was shot in the head RVN 1969, lost most of my hearing then.
Around 1996 a hearing impaired friend, said that the newer technology might help me. He recommended Easter Seals; around Chicago hearing is one of their main programs.
Easter Seals, very nice, no push, take your time...
They explained that using aides was like learning a new language and takes time.
They also said that most aids end up in a drawer, unused.
They sent me out like a student on assignment, noisy restaurant talk with others, movie theater, church, car...
After each assignment they would make adjustments, until we felt it was at the limit of the aids.
With the first aids, the noise canceling was superb.
“But you sure do hear the air leakage from the windows, the AC”. I needed near silence to hear speech, they took care of that.
Now with my newest set, OH MY!I can HEAR!
They can adjust the directions that I want to recognize speech, Bluetooth and many other functions... AND THEY ARE WATERPROOF!!! My previous ones; one drop of water and send them in for repair.
The only thing they cannot do is dampen loud noise(SHOOTING), like the electronic muffs.
Before 0bamacare, I had gold plated insurance, paid for everything, now not so much.
Everyone has different requirements, this what I use:
Phonak Bolero over the ear, TV Link and remote mic.
ask Hillary ...