While it could be true that older hearing aids are better than no hearing aids, it’s likely that what small advantage you get from them comes at a cost. Within the last few years, hearing aid technology has made considerable advancements. Ten years ago many of the features of current hearing aids weren’t even on the drawing board, going digital for instance.
When you decide it’s time to upgrade, choosing the right one will take a little planning. A hearing exam to find out how your hearing has changed will be needed first. Once you understand how much hearing loss you’re dealing with, you can start to narrow down your choices. It’s probably time for an upgrade for the following reasons.
Hearing aid dependability
Older or even low-quality hearing aids have real issues, such as that aggravating buzz you hear every now and then. And, what about feedback anytime you get close to a phone? At times, they will squeal with feedback for no evident reason. Newer designs compensate for prevalent issues so that you hear feedback less frequently.
Volume isn’t enough
Volume control was about the only function of hearing aids a decade ago. Hearing aids have much more technology and functionality nowadays.
- Bluetooth capability: Tvs, cellphones, and other equipped devices can now be synced to your hearing aid. This can be helpful for streaming music or making phone calls.
- Voice focus: Some hearing aids also offer voice focus, which helps the wearer to focus on the voices they choose to hear. The sound of the intended voice is detected and amplified by directionally set microphones. When someone is speaking quietly or in a loud setting, voice focus can be quite helpful.
- Improved sound quality: Older hearing aid models had far lower quality of sound than modern-day models. Signal processing has gone to digital, which duplicates and amplifies sound in a more precise way. In addition, many hearing aids now offer features such as multiple programs that can be customized to different listening environments.
- Background noise reduction: Contemporary hearing aids use numerous strategies to reduce background noise, including directional microphones, noise filters, and feedback nullification. Directional microphones center on the sound coming from the front of the user, while noise filters minimize undesirable sounds from all directions. When your hearing aid isn’t properly fitted, a whistling sound can take place which will be eliminated by feedback cancellation.
You have to change the batteries – a lot
When we’re talking about upgrading your hearing aid, price is always a factor. The new technology isn’t cheap, but neither is wearing old, outdated hearing aids. Analog devices require new batteries frequently. If you’re replacing the battery on a daily basis, or even more frequently than that, the cost adds up.
Out-dated hearing aids break down and need to go to the shop for repair more frequently. If you view your hearing aid as a 1992 Buick, you get the idea. It’s in the shop more than it’s in your ear and the repairs aren’t inexpensive.
You’re not capable of hearing at work
Research has shown that hearing loss can lead to a lower income. Doesn’t it seem sensible then, that better hearing aids would be a career asset? You’ll have an easier time hearing what clients, coworkers, and your boss are saying to you. You will follow instructions without wondering if you got it right and have essential discussions without worrying about whether your hearing aids will cut out or not.
And with stronger communication, you will have a better quality of life. You don’t need to sit by yourself during conversations anymore. Dive in and engage with the people around you.
You want something more discreet
What do you think when you look in the mirror and see that outdated hearing aid? Clunky? Obvious? OMG? Style and flexibility are some of the most significant reasons to replace those old hearing aids. Modern hearing aids come in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and colors. You can have one tucked 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.
It’s time to consider upgrading your hearing aids if you’re unhappy with the results you’re getting from your old pair. The things that modern technology has allowed hearing aids to do wasn’t even possible before. Call us today to talk about your options.
