I’ve been looking for a support group after struggling with this for a few years now. I’ve been told by audiologists that my hearing loss has probably been there for many years; is likely genetic; not a result of loud music/sounds. At 66, it all makes more sense now that I have unknowingly used many visual and contextual “clues” previously but in the last few years they haven’t been helping enough hence my ‘discovery” and pursuit of help from audiologists. It was good to read and relate to the postings here but still a bit in the “dark” regarding the next steps. I’ve tried Costco with Rexton, 6 months and gave up and returned…albeit the staffing was not helpful in adjustments. Lived with it for another year and went to a local audiologist with certifications and experience. Of course, most of their clients are typical hearing loss patients not reverse cookie-bite loss. I’ve been working through the second go around with hearing aids since November of '24. First aids were Phonak Audeo L30-R RITE, now on Starkey Al 16 mRIC. I’ve had a great experience with this staff…and yet feel so dissatisfied with results. My conversations are mostly all “tinny and reverb” with the aids in and many times I just find myself working hard to tolerate all the other amplified sounds so I could try to hear or separate out the sounds I want/need to hear. I also experience tinnitus which disappears for the most part when I use the hearing aids BUT when I remove for sleeping, the tinnitus comes right back sometimes disrupting my sleep. I’m aware that isolation is not helpful, something which I struggle with since I’m a communicator at heart, yet work from home. I’ve seen the self-isolation creeping in since in a group setting of any kind the words just mush together or disappear completely, especially in smaller places like a car, or an enclosed room with all my kids and grandkids around or a classroom or Dr/Dentist offices. Music while driving (especially with others in the car is definitely not enjoyable anymore).I’m thinking about returning the Starkeys and starting over again. I’ve had Real Ear measurements, tried domes, open domes, no domes (which seem the best since my ear canals are a bit narrow) and multiple visits adjustments. Though this office and staff are stellar I’m just not sure I can find an audiologist that specializes in reverse cookie bite hearing loss since it is not typical. I’m open to any input. Thank-you for your indulgence in reading this rather lengthy post…just about at my wit’s end.
I don’t think that any particular hearing aid is best. I think that how the hearing aid is set up and adjusted is more important and will make all the difference. Unfortunately finding an audiologist who is talented and careing appears to be sometimes difficult. I would concentrate on finding the audiologist or hearing aid specialist who will really try to help.
Thank-you for your response. Where I live there is a limited availability of audiologists, I will keep on looking and asking questions. 
Many of us have resorted to adjusting our own hearing aids. It is a learning process but very doable. If you are interested visit the self fitting category in this forum.
okay, will do, thanks for the feedback
Checked out the self-fitting category…this is a new idea for me, …a LOT to choose from. Is there a good “beginning” place to start? Honestly, I’m a great learner but technology is totally not my fav…but I can try. I do sense I’m challenging the staff at this AuD…the customer service is off the charts …yet, with the three PhD’s in the office so far the multiple and very patient adjustments are some helpful…yet, it doesn’t seem to fit my "groove"
. I love being able to use my smart phone with the bluetooth options, especially when driving, frankly my bluetooth earbud is much more user friendly but that means I’m constantly switching them out when out for my big errand days or visiting family about an hour away and keeping in touch with my other kids spread out over the country.
I’m guessing my current aids are at the lower end of the spectrum, $2800 for two, after doing more internet surfing perhaps the features I might really appreciate would be even more money? Is that partially what the self fitting means, I can bypass the audiologist “cut” and then self adjust? Anyhoo, a good place to start for self fitting?
What are they (also where are you located )… then we can tell you what you need for self programing.
If they are new enough then a NoahLInk wireless and the correct software (available here) , will get you started.
You will need the Starkey Pro Fit software and a NoahLink wireless. Check with @tenkan here on the forum for the software. The Noahlink wireless is available on Amazon or Ebay for somewhere in the range of $150-$200. It can be found for less from foreign suppliers although it may not be available in the current climate. You can download the software and play with it to see how it works and you won’t need the NoahLink unless you decide to proceed. Here is a YouTube video which is think is informative. The video is about the Philips aid from Costco, but the idea is generally the same for most hearing aids. Post your questions in the Self fitting secttion and there are many here who will help.
They are Starkey AI 16, I’m on the Monterey Peninsula/Salinas Valley area in California
Okay, thanks for the info…I’ll definitely check this out. Been on the forum this am for a few hours and finding out all kinds of info and resources…so starts the journey.
Great, also check out audiology online for lots of information. You have to register, but it is free unless you request continuing education credit.
It’s on my list to do…now to get others things done today. Thanks for all your help!