While it could be true that older hearing aids are better than nothing, it’s likely that what small advantage you get from them may be costly. Within the past few years, hearing aid technology has made significant developments. A decade ago many of the features of modern hearing aids weren’t even on the drawing board, going digital for instance.
If you’re considering upgrading your hearing aids, there are a few things you’ll need to do in order to select the best ones for your needs. A hearing test to find out how your hearing has changed will be needed first. Once you know how much hearing loss you’re dealing with, you can begin to get a clearer look at your options. It’s probably time for an upgrade for the following reasons.
Hearing aid reliability
Older or even low-quality hearing aids have real issues, like that annoying buzz you hear every once in a while. And, how about feedback anytime you get close to a phone? At times, they will squeal with feedback for no distinct reason. Your feedback will be considerably reduced with newer models which have features that compensate for common issues.
Volume isn’t enough
Volume control was about the only function of hearing aids a decade ago. Nowadays, hearing aids are loaded with much better technology.
- Background noise reduction: Contemporary hearing aids use a number of techniques to reduce background noise, and that includes directional microphones, noise filters, and feedback cancellation. Noise filters decrease unwanted noise while directional microphones are made to detect sound right in front of you. Feedback cancellation helps to counter the whistling sound that can occur when hearing aids aren’t properly fitted.
- Improved sound quality: Older hearing aid models had far lower quality of sound than modern-day models. Signal processing has become digital, which duplicates and amplifies sound in a more accurate way. In addition, many hearing aids now provide features such as multiple programs that can be customized to different listening environments.
- Bluetooth capability: This feature allows hearing aids to connect to other devices, like smartphones, TVs, and other smart devices. Making phone calls or listening to music becomes easy with this.
- Voice focus: Some hearing aids also offer voice focus, which helps the user to focus on the voices they want to hear. The sound of the intended voice is detected and boosted by directionally arranged microphones. When someone is talking quietly or in a noisy setting, voice focus can be really helpful.
You have to change the batteries – frequently
Cost is always a factor in terms of a hearing aid upgrade. You might think that upgrading your hearing aid will cost too much, but old antiquated hearing aids can be costly as well. The batteries in analog devices go dead and need to be replaced frequently. The expenses will add up, especially if you need to switch out batteries daily or more.
Old hearing aids malfunction and need to go to the shop for repair more frequently. If you think of your hearing aid as a 1992 Buick, you get the concept. It’s in the shop more than it’s in your ear and the repairs aren’t cheap.
You’re not able to hear at work
Research has shown that hearing loss can lead to a reduced paycheck. Obviously, your career would be improved by wearing better hearing aids. You’ll hear your boss and customers better. You will follow instructions without wondering if you got it right and have important conversations without being concerned about whether your hearing aids will cut out or not.
Of course, stronger communication means a better quality of life, too. You’ll be capable of communicating with people again. Get right back into being socially connected.
You’re looking for something more discreet
What do you think when you look in the mirror and see that old hearing aid? Awkward? Noticeable? OMG? Some of the most considerable advantages that come with updating old hearing aids are style and flexibility. Today’s hearing aids come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. You can have one nestled into your ear so nobody will ever notice it, or you can make a fashion statement with a visible hearing aid in your favorite color.
If you’re thinking about investing in new hearing aids, or if you’re already wearing them but you’re unhappy with the results, consider upgrading to a newer model. Technology has come a long way in the past several years, and there are now hearing aids available that can do things that were impossible before. Give us a call today to discuss your options.
