Hearing aids typically have an average lifespan of 3-7 years. They are designed to withstand wear and tear and constant exposure to heat, moisture, and ear wax. However, no matter how well they are built or maintained, they still eventually have to get replaced. To determine if it’s the right time to give your hearing aids an upgrade, here are some signs to look out for:
You Experienced Significant Changes in Your Hearing
You may have enjoyed the clarity of the sound and realized all of the noises and music you didn’t know you were missing when you first tried hearing aids. But if you have had them for a while now, you may have experienced changes in your hearing because age-related hearing loss gets worse as you get older.
In this case, it might be time to head to a hearing clinic for an adjustment if you noticed any significant hearing changes. You may have to upgrade to a newer hearing device with more powerful capabilities that meet your needs if you’re no longer getting like-new performance from your current hearing aids.
You Underwent Major Life Changes
A new environment can affect your hearing requirements. If you initially got hearing aids specially designed for people with a quieter lifestyle, consider replacing them if you have major life changes. These include changes in your occupation, such as getting a new job in a noisy environment or one that requires lots of meetings and conference calls. It’s also a good idea to consider buying a more powerful hearing device if you take up a new hobby involving social activities.
You Seek Convenience
Older hearing aids are bulky, and they draw unnecessary attention to you. Thanks to the rapid advancement of technology, you can now get a device that is almost invisible. Unless you tell the people around you, no one will probably notice you are wearing hearing aids.
Another reason to get new hearing aids is to enjoy convenience from a hearing device that offers more flexibility. Newer models can even connect wirelessly to electronic devices, including TVs, audio equipment, and smartphones!
You Need a Device with More Advanced Features
As mentioned, technology is constantly evolving, which is why your hearing aids also have to keep up with the changes. If your device is still working but already outdated, you may benefit more from replacing it with a newer model. For example, the latest hearing instruments are smarter than ever, as they can separate conversation from background noise to boost comprehension and minimize brain fatigue.
Keeping up to date with advances in technology offers other benefits. Besides being capable of connecting to electronic devices, newer hearing devices fit more comfortably. They also come in different colors, if you prefer them to match your outfit. If you want something more discreet, you also have the option to go for seemingly invisible hearing aids.
Conclusion
Regardless of your current hearing aids’ performance, it’s worth contemplating if you will get more advantages from getting an upgrade. The next time you see a hearing care professional, consider scheduling a hearing test and getting fitted for new hearing instruments.
Whatever your reason for an upgrade, you can count on our hearing specialists at Hear More Associates to give you the best possible hearing care experience. Head to our offices across Southern New Hampshire, Eastern Massachusetts, and Rhode Island to seek help from our audiological experts today!
