The sense of hearing is one of the five senses of the human body, which is necessary to maintain quality of life. Hearing might seem like a straightforward process, but it’s essential to our well-being, sense of balance, and overall health. Unfortunately, it’s not perfect because specific conditions, such as hearing loss, can affect our hearing.
Hearing loss is precisely what it sounds like: the loss of ability to hear sounds. The loss can be temporary or permanent, depending on the cause. While it sounds daunting, the good news is that hearing aids can help. These tiny devices can help someone with hearing loss hear again, but the tricky part lies in their longevity because they can still break. For this reason, we’ll discuss some frequently asked questions regarding hearing aid longevity. These include:
#1 – How Long Does a Hearing Aid Usually Last?
A hearing aid should last between three to five years. The lifespan of a hearing device depends on factors such as the environment, care, and use. The more a person uses a hearing device, the more it tends to break. If someone uses their hearing device in a dusty environment, they may have to clean it more often. Likewise, if a person wears their hearing aid incorrectly or doesn’t maintain it well, it might break more often. Moreover, the lifespan of a hearing aid also depends on the materials used in the device.
If your hearing aid breaks, then you can have it repaired or replaced. The type of hearing aid you use may also determine its lifespan. Custom-made hearing aids are more expensive, but they don’t have a set lifespan so they may last longer than the usual device.
#2 – Where Can You Get a Hearing Aid Repaired?
You can take your hearing aid to an audiologist for repair. When you take your hearing device to an audiologist for repair, they’ll check it to ensure it’s not too damaged. They’ll also review the cause of why it broke and if it can still be fixed. If it can be fixed, it’ll be repaired; if it can’t, the audiologist might recommend another device or say that the device is completely damaged and unusable.
However, some companies specialize in hearing aid repairs. If you’re uncomfortable with taking it to an audiologist, you can send it to one of these companies instead. They might not be as efficient as an audiologist, but it’s an option, especially if you’re located in a remote area where you don’t have a nearby audiologist.
#3 – Are There Specific Brands or Models to Turn to for Longevity?
This is a tricky question because different devices can last for different durations. However, some known leading brands, such as Signia, Phonak, and Oticon, are regarded for their durability and quality. These brands are also known for their longer lifespans than other brands.
#4 – Can Custom Hearing Aids Last Longer?
Custom-made hearing aids can last longer because they’re made specifically for your case. They’re not mass-produced and are made with the highest quality possible. Keep in mind that custom-made devices are more expensive than regular ones. Talking to an audiologist is vital to determine which device will last longer. They might recommend a custom-made device if they know you’ll be using it for a long time.
#5 – How Do You Take Care of a Hearing Aid?
You should always keep your hearing device protected and stored away from dust, moisture, and dirt. You should also always carry it in a case to keep it from getting broken or damaged. You should also always clean it with a soft cloth. If you use your hearing device for a long time or if it’s in a dusty location, then you should clean it more often.
Conclusion
A hearing aid can help anyone with hearing loss, but like any other device, it isn’t perfect and can break. As such, you need to take good care of it. If your hearing aid breaks and you need help with repair, you can contact a hearing aid specialist.
If you’re looking for hearing aids in Massachusetts, Hear More Associates can help you! We offer comprehensive hearing tests for anyone, so we can guarantee that you’ll get the perfect hearing aid that suits your needs. Simply go to our website to schedule a free hearing test!
