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When Should I Update My Hearing Aids?
Hearing aids are an integral part of daily life so it is important to know when you should update them! Hearing aids are complex devices that consist of components designed to effectively collect, amplify, and process sound. Like most electronics, hearing aids have greatly benefitted from advancing technology that has produced a variety of features that enhance user experience and maximize hearing capacity in the environments you navigate.
Though they are made to endure and resist the impact of wearing them regularly, after some time, daily wear and tear takes a toll on hearing aid devices. The build-up of sweat, ear wax, moisture, dirt etc. that happens in the ears cause hearing aids to eventually become less effective.
The average life-span of hearing aids is between 5-7 years, when taken care of and maintained properly. So, how do you know when it’s time to update your hearing aids? Well, there are a few signs to look out for!
Your Hearing Aids Are Not Working Like They Used To
You know your device best! After wearing them for hours every day, you know how they work and what your hearing experience is in the environments you move through. You will likely know when sound seems off or your hearing aids are not functioning normally. It is important to trust your own expertise and experience with your device.
Hearing aids begin to be impacted by the various natural elements that can accumulate in your ears which can impact the electrical components that keep it operating (microphone, amplifier, speaker). A few signals that they aren’t working as well as they should include:
- Frequent malfunctioning and/or completely powering off
- Presence of buzzing, whistling, ringing sounds
- Having to charge the batteries often
- Feedback
It is common to occasionally have repairs done on your hearing aids but if these issues persist, you likely need new hearing devices.
Your Hearing Needs Have Changed
Hearing health, like your overall health, is not fixed; meaning that it can change over time. Your hearing capacity in both ears can be impacted by various factors including: development of medical conditions (hypertension, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity), environmental exposure to loud noise, aging, and genetic history. Your hearing impairment can shift from moderate to mild to severe which changes your hearing needs.
It is important to have your hearing tested regularly (annually could be a great idea) to make sure that your hearing needs are consistently evaluated and being met. You are already familiar with how hearing tests work, so you know that they are noninvasive and painless! If you hearing ability has changed, this could explain why your current devices are no longer working well for you and lets you know that you should update your hearing aids
You Have Made Changes To Your Lifestyle
As you know, lifestyle factors are an important part of identifying the best hearing aids for you. This includes the type of environment you work in, hobbies, social life, exercise routines etc. Your hearing aid should maximize your hearing while in the settings and activities you participate in.
So, if there have been any changes to your lifestyle, this could signal that it might be time for new hearing aids. If you have changed jobs, moved to a different climate, started new social activities etc. then your current hearing aids may no longer best serve you. There may be hearing aids that are more compatible with these changes to your life!
You Are Interested In The Latest Features
Hearing aids are regularly evolving pieces of technology. There is a range of options and features that are designed to best enhance your hearing experience: wireless connectivity, noise cancellation, voice recognition, water resistance and more. You may be interested in exploring these innovations and what would best match your needs and preferences.
Hearing aids are such an important investment that require you to take the time to assess what would work best for you. You should consult with a hearing healthcare specialist, identify your hearing needs, and explore your options. Hearing aids shape how you navigate your daily life and are also integral to your health and wellness so stay aware of when you should update them!
Whatever your reason for an upgrade, we’re here to help! We provide comprehensive hearing health services and work with the latest and greatest hearing aid technology. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.