Once you get used to your hearing aid, it’s difficult to go without it. Your hearing aids are, after all, your connection to the world around you. But it will periodically have to be upgraded or replaced just like all technology.
A hearing aid’s average lifespan
A hearing aid will usually last 3 to 7 years. You will need to have routine hearing assessments to be certain your current hearing aid is still the best option for your hearing requirements, and the 3 to 7 year lifespan isn’t etched in stone. As your hearing changes, your latest hearing aid might not be the best option anymore and with constantly improving technology, some hearing aids will have to be replaced sooner than others.
There are other things that will affect the longevity of your hearing aids
So hearing aids have an “average” lifespan of 3 to 7 years. Which means there are lots of individuals who may see their hearing aids last a lot longer. How long your hearing aids will last is based on a number of factors:
- Functionality: Hearing aids have been keeping pace with constantly changing technology. If you want your hearing aids to connect with your smartphone, TV, or other devices, or to just have the clearest sound, you might want to upgrade.
- Changes to your hearing: Most grownups go for those really small hearing aids that conceal easily. Those devices have the correct amount of power you need and are extremely precisely calibrated. You may need to upgrade to a more powerful hearing aid if your hearing gets worse.
- Build quality: Investing in hearing aids can be a bit pricey. But, you usually get what you pay for, like with anything in life. The more robust the construction quality, the longer your hearing aid should last.
- How frequently your hearing aids are used: The more often you wear your hearing aids, the sooner they will need to be replaced. But that’s not always the case, modern hearing aids are made to be used for long durations. Actually, it may be more correct to say that the more times you turn on and off the device, the sooner it will wear out.
- Proper care & maintenance: Like any piece of technology, it will last longer the better care you take of it. So, cleaning your hearing aid and doing routine maintenance as the manufacturer recommends is something you should always do.
How can you get longer life out of your hearing aid?
It’s significant to note that hearing aids are a very personal thing. In most circumstances, they are programmed specifically for your hearing and will usually have custom molds. They are also a considerable investment. 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 be sure that your hearing aids last as long as they can. Try not to get them wet or drop them. And be certain you do all the recommended maintenance and cleaning.
You’ll normally be able to get a good five years out of your hearing aid. Whether you can get more than that is, generally, up to chance. But ultimately, you will have to decide. Inevitably, more modern hearing aids offer features you will most likely want. So, give us a call to make an appointment for a hearing exam right away. We’ll help you determine which hearing aid is best for you.
