Once you get used to using a hearing aid, it’s difficult to be without it. Let’s face it, if you want to stay connected to the world, your hearing aids are crucial. But it will occasionally need to be updated or replaced just like all technology.
The Average Lifespan of a Hearing Aid
So the typical hearing aid will last how long?The normal lifespan of a typical hearing aid will be anywhere from 3 to 5 years. But that’s not a hard and fast rule, and you need to have your hearing examined periodically to be sure your hearing aid is still the best choice for you. Assuming your hearing doesn’t change, some models age more rapidly than others and technology is continuously changing.
Your Hearing Aid Longevity May be Affected by These Factors
But that’s just the average life of a hearing aid. Which means there are lots of people who may have their hearing aids last much longer. Here are a number of factors that will define how long your hearing aids will last:
- Complexity of the hearing aid: The more complex your hearing aid is, the more variables you have to contend with (meaning there’s more that can go wrong). However, sometimes you need that added sophistication, and usually, it winds up being worth it. But additional complex technology does introduce a breakability factor. One thing that helps is that software improvements instead of hardware upgrades have been skillfully implemented for better functionality in modern hearing aids.
- How frequently you use your hearing aids: So if you wear your hearing aid more often, you will to replace it sooner. But that’s not always true, modern hearing aids are meant to be used for long durations. Maybe a better way to say it is that the more often you cycle power settings (turn the device on and off), the sooner you might have to replace your hearing aid.
- Regular care and upkeep: In many ways, a hearing aid is like most other pieces of technology: it will last longer if you take better care of it. That’s the reason why you should always clean your hearing aids and conduct regular maintenance just as the manufacturer suggests.
- Functionality: Technology is always changing, and hearing aids have been changing too. If you would like your hearing aids to sync up with your television, smartphone, or other devices, or to just have the clearest sound, you may want to upgrade.
- Changes to your hearing: Those small, easy to hide devices are often the choice of adults who wear hearing aids. Those devices have the exact amount of power you require and are very precisely calibrated. You may need to switch to a more powerful hearing aid if your hearing gets worse.
- Quality of Build: Hearing aids are costly. But you usually get what you pay for, as with most things. Your hearing aid will probably last longer if it is built better.
Making Your Hearing Aids Last Longer
We have to acknowledge that hearing aids are pretty personal things. In most cases, they are programmed exclusively for your ears and may have custom molds. They are also a significant investment. So getting the most value for your money getting your hearing aid to last as long as possible is a prevailing goal.
And it’s one you can achieve. Really, the best thing you can do to make sure your hearing aids last as long as possible is to take care of them. Dropping them or getting them wet are things you should not do if possible. And all the needed maintenance and cleaning are things you should not neglect.
Your hearing aids should last a good five years. Whether you will be able to get more than that is, generally, up to chance. But there comes a time when you have to make a choice. Inevitably, you will likely want the new features provided by more modern hearing aids. So, schedule a hearing test today to find out which hearing aid is best for you.