Managing Expectations for Your Cochlear Implant Journey

Our expectations questionnaire invites you and your family to reflect on what you hope your cochlear implant will mean for your daily life and to consider the factors that may influence your outcomes. By doing so, you can gain clearer insight into what progress may look like and what you can do to hear your best.

Complete the 16-item questionnaire, and then read on to see how your expectations align with what we know about the cochlear implant process.

Expectations Questionnaire and Explanations

1. I will need to wear the external device all waking hours.

• Yes, consistent use is essential for optimal hearing outcomes as it allows the brain to adapt to and learn to interpret new auditory input. If device use all waking hours is challenging, set yourself goals to slowly increase your wearing hours. You can use the AudioKey app to keep track of your wearing hours.

2. I will take some time adjusting to listening with my cochlear implant.

• It is likely. The adjustment period varies for everyone based on their anatomy and history. At first, sounds may seem unfamiliar or different. Consistent use and auditory training can help the brain to adjust.

3. I will need to participate in listening training.

• Yes, for the best outcomes, it is encouraged. Auditory training can improve speech understanding, music appreciation, and communication because it aims to help the brain interpret new sounds.

4. I will need support from others at home to develop listening.

• While digital options such as ReDi are great for auditory training, your family and friends continue to play a key role in supporting communication practice in your daily life.

5. I will hear quiet sounds.

• Yes, cochlear implants can detect soft sounds, but perception varies for every individual.

6. I will be able to locate where sounds come from.

• Sound localization may improve, especially if you can hear on both sides. This may require time and practice, and it may still be challenging in environments with many competing sounds.

7. I will hear like others who have typical hearing.

• For most people, cochlear implants provide a sensation of sound like natural hearing, but do not restore normal hearing.

8. I will understand what people say without having to lipread.

9. I will be able to understand what people say without needing repetition.

• Many recipients have improved speech understanding without the need for visual cues or repetition, while others may still rely on lipreading, especially in noisy situations or with unfamiliar voices. Improved speech understanding is expected over time and with practice.

10. I will understand people when there is background noise.

• Listening in the presence of background noise often improves but it can remain challenging for some recipients. The use of assistive listening devices and strategies can help.

11. I will follow a conversation with a group of people.

• Group conversations are complex due to overlapping speech and background noise. The use of assistive devices or strategies can help.

12. I will be able to improve my speech skills if they are currently a concern.

13. I will be able to improve my language skills if currently are a concern.

• Speech skills may improve with the auditory feedback that is provided with a cochlear implant. Language skills may also progress due to improved auditory access. Consistent device use is essential here, and rehabilitation support from a trained therapist will be beneficial.

14. I will enjoy music.

• Music perception varies widely. Exposure and training often help users enjoy music. Many recipients report that they get their love of music back.

15. I will be able to use the telephone.

• Telephone use is possible for many recipients but may require practice. Captioning can be helpful.

16. I will continue to wear a hearing device in the other ear, if available.

• Yes, it is often recommended if residual hearing exists to continue wearing a hearing device in the other ear. Bilateral cochlear implants or the use of a hearing device in the other ear can enhance sound quality and localization.