It’s difficult to be separated from your hearing aid once you get accustomed to using one. Your hearing aids are, after all, your link to the world around you. But just like all technology, though, it will have to be upgraded eventually.
A hearing aid’s average lifespan
A hearing aid will usually last 3 to 7 years. But that isn’t a set in stone rule, and you’ll need to get your hearing tested periodically to be certain your hearing aid is still the best option for your lifestyle. As your hearing changes, your current hearing aid might not be the best solution anymore and with constantly advancing technology, some hearing aids will need to be upgraded sooner than others.
There are other factors that will impact the lifespan of your hearing aids
So hearing aids have a “typical” lifespan of 3 to 7 years. Which means there are lots of individuals who may see their hearing aids last much longer. Here are a number of considerations that will determine how long your hearing aid should last:
- Changes to your hearing: Most grownups go for those really small hearing aids that hide easily. That type of hearing aid can be really precisely fine-tuned and will have exactly the right amount of power you need. If your hearing loss gets worse, you may need to upgrade to a more powerful model.
- Functionality: Technology is always advancing and hearing aids are keeping pace with those changes. You might want to upgrade your hearing aid if you want the sharpest sound or if you want to connect with you your smart-devices including your phone or TV.
- Proper care & maintenance: Like any piece of technology, it will last longer the better you care for it. That’s why you should always keep your hearing aids clean and do regular maintenance according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
- Build quality: Buying hearing aids can be a bit pricey. But, as with most things in life, you generally get what you pay for. The more robust the construction quality, the longer your hearing aid should last.
- How frequently your hearing aids are used: So if you use your hearing aid more frequently, you will need a new one sooner. But that’s not always the case, modern hearing aids are made to be used for a long time. Actually, it might be more precise to say that the more times you turn the device on and off, the sooner it will need replacing.
How can you get the most out of your hearing aid?
We have to acknowledge that hearing aids are rather personal things. In most circumstances, they are tuned specifically for your hearing and will likely have custom molds. They are also a considerable investment. So it’s a prevailing goal to get the most that you can out of your hearing aid.
And this is a very attainable goal. The most practical thing you can do if you want your hearing aid to last is take good care of it. Try to keep them dry and don’t drop them if possible. Of course, doing the required cleaning and maintenance is important.
Your hearing aid will normally work well for at least five years. You might or might not get more than that. But sooner or later, you will have to decide. Inevitably, more modern hearing aids provide features you will probably want. So, call us to make an appointment for a hearing exam right away. We’ll help you figure out which hearing aid is right for you.