Once you get accustomed to your hearing aid, it’s hard to be without it. Your hearing aids are, after all, your connection to the world around you. But it will periodically need to be upgraded or replaced just like all technology.
A hearing aid’s average lifespan
From 3 to 7 years will be the normal lifespan of a hearing aid. But that isn’t a set in stone rule, and you’ll need to get your hearing tested from time to time to be certain your hearing aid is still the best solution 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 have to be upgraded sooner than others.
There are other factors that will impact the longevity of your hearing aids
So hearing aids have an “average” longevity of 3 to 7 years. Which means there are lots of individuals who may see their hearing aids last much longer. How long your hearing aids will last is determined by quite a few factors:
- How often your hearing aids are used: So if you use your hearing aid more frequently, you will need to get a new one sooner. But that’s not always the case, modern hearing aids are made to be used for long durations. Perhaps, a better way to put it is that the more frequently you cycle power settings (turn the device on and off), the sooner you might need to get a new hearing aid.
- Proper care & maintenance: Like any piece of technology, it will have a longer life the better you care for it. That’s why you should always clean your hearing aids and conduct routine maintenance in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Build quality: Investing in hearing aids can be a bit pricey. But, as with most things in life, you usually get what you pay for. Your hearing aid will last longer if it has more robust construction.
- Changes to your hearing: Most adults go for those really small hearing aids that conceal easily. That style of hearing aid can be really precisely fine-tuned and will have just the right amount of power you require. If your hearing loss worsens, you might need to upgrade to a more powerful model.
- Functionality: Hearing aids have been keeping up with continuously advancing technology. If you want your hearing aids to sync with your smartphone, TV, or other devices, or to just have the clearest sound, you may want to upgrade.
Can you make your hearing aids last longer?
We have to recognize that hearing aids are pretty personal things. Usually, they will be specifically molded to the shape of your ears and tuned to your particular needs. The investment is also substantial. So getting the most you can from your hearing aids is the common goal.
And this is a very attainable goal. Taking good care of your hearing aids is the best thing you can do to make certain that your hearing aids last as long as they can. Try not to get them wet or drop them. And make sure you do all the required maintenance and cleaning.
Your hearing aid will typically work well for at least five years. Whether you can get more than that is, mostly, up to chance. But ultimately, you will have to make a decision. Inevitably, more modern hearing aids provide features you will most likely want. So, call us to make an appointment for a hearing test right away. We’ll help you find out which hearing aid is best for you.