“About 5 years ago, I became conscious of a distinct loss of hearing”

At the age of 76, I still lead a very active life being involved in the world of aircraft preservation and restoration.  I have been Managing Director (albeit in a totally voluntary capacity) of Medway Aircraft Preservation Society based at Rochester Airport (Kent) for the past 31 years.  We have some 52 volunteers working a minimum of 6 days per week.

This involves me in many outside meetings with, for example, the RAF Museum, Imperial War Museum, etc, as well as many local meetings with Councilors etc.

About 5 years ago, I became conscious of a distinct loss of hearing which at times proved quite embarrassing as questions were addressed to me and I couldn’t hear their content.  This loss of hearing affected my wife, family and others around me, but I obstinately refused to totally accept this.

My loss of hearing reached a stage where I seriously thought of giving up my responsibilities and interests, but common sense finally prevailed and I eventually decided (this year) to do something about it.

Yes, it was hard to admit that I had a hearing loss – but I am now very glad that I did so!

"I was made to feel very relaxed about the assessment and my queries were answered without any pressure"

Initially I sought advice from friends, colleagues etc and I soon realised that to obtain the best results I would almost certainly need to go ‘private’.  The experience of others led me to Leightons where by chance, a free hearing aid assessment was on offer.

I must admit, the initial ‘fog horn’ test was a bit of a let down, and then to have to wait 2 weeks before a detailed assessment was available did upset my confidence (and decision) a little bit.

I went with my wife for this.  I was made to feel very relaxed about the assessment and my queries were answered without any pressure being put on me to buy a particular product.  This gave me great confidence.

 "I feel no embarrassment about wearing hearing aids and in fact advocate their use to others"

The pros and cons of a hearing aid were fully explained so I had no pre-set views of what a hearing aid could or could not, do for me.  I was very happy with the fit and from day one I have had no problems with wearing them as they are so comfortable.  I really do forget I am wearing them for such long periods, ie, 15-16 hours a day.

I accepted from the outset that a hearing aid could never totally replace normal hearing but making (small) allowances for them I have been very impressed with the massive improvement in my quality of life especially with my family, friends and colleagues. 

I realise that I should have done this before, but I was I suppose, a bit obstinate.

There has been a very real improvement in all of the above.  I feel no embarrassment about wearing hearing aids and in fact advocate their use to others who I know have similar hearing problems.

I am very happy about the aftercare service offered by Leightons especially after carefully reading ‘the small print’ from other reputedly similar companies.

Mr. L. Deal, MBE