Hearing aids are essential devices for people who struggle with hearing correctly. However, similar to other devices, they may break or fail over time, making them useless. Therefore, when the time comes that they do not work anymore, how would you know if they’re still up for repairs or replacement? Here are some factors to consider.
1. Hearing Aid Type
There are different types of hearing aids in size, shape, technology, and even materials. For instance, the most common hearing aids are over-the-ear devices, but there are also other types such as in-the-ear and behind-the-ear devices. These devices are made of different materials, with some being acrylic and others being ceramics or titanium.
The differences between these types are also essential to know as well. For instance, over-the-ear devices may be more prone to damage if they enter any liquid, while behind-the-ear devices have a higher risk of becoming lost. Hearing aid models also differ in how long people can use them. Some are disposable, while others can be used for several years. However, disposables may be cheaper than those people can use for extended periods.
2. How Long Have You Had Them?
The length of time you have used the hearing aids is also significant to consider because specific devices have a projected lifespan, meaning that they will stop working again after a certain amount of time. For instance, disposable devices may only be used for a month or two, while people may use other devices for several years.
Generally, devices that are constantly worn usually last shorter than devices that are used occasionally. It is due to such devices’ constant movement and wears and tears. Thus, if you have been using your devices for a long time, there’s a good chance that they have already reached their lifespan.
3. Hearing Aid Features
Different hearing aid features nowadays can help users not only hear better but also reduce the amount of effort they need to put into hearing efficiently. For instance, directional microphones can amplify sounds in a specific direction.
Both directional and non-directional microphones can help reduce the amount of background noise that users are exposed to. On the other hand, hearing aid features also allow them to cancel out a specific frequency, especially helpful for people who hear better in low-pitched sounds as these frequencies are often canceled using the “telecoil” feature.
4. Lifestyle
Finally, to ensure that your hearing aids will last longer, it is essential to remember that different aspects of your lifestyle can damage them. For instance, certain activities can cause your hearing aids to wear out quickly.
Thus, it is vital to cut them off when taking a shower, swimming, or engaging in any other activity that could cause them to come into contact with water or another liquid. For example, never forget to remove your hearing aids wherever you go for a swim. Also, never flush your hearing aid down or in a public toilet.
5. Overall Needs
A hearing aid is essential for people who have trouble hearing correctly, but they pose specific problems when they become worn out. Therefore, it is necessary to consider the factors mentioned above to maintain the longevity of your hearing aids.
Conclusion
There are instances where hearing aids are still up for repairs. However, when it’s time to get a new pair fitted to your current needs, here are some factors to consider. After all, having hearing aids replaced is for your own good too.
Hear More Associates helps patients with hearing problems through hearing specialists in Massachusetts. Our goal is to provide hearing aids in Londonderry, reducing the inability to listen to people who struggle to hear. Get a free hearing test in Lexington today and learn more about the following steps to hearing clearly through our website.
