Hearing aids are small electronic devices designed to help individuals with hearing loss improve their ability to communicate by enhancing the ability to hear and understand sounds in the environment.
A person with hearing loss getting fitted with a hearing aid for the first time might feel overwhelmed or emotional upon hearing the first clear sound picked up by their hearing device.
As audiologists, we truly delight in this momentous moment because it is our pride and joy to help people with hearing enjoy a better quality of life.
The question is – how long do hearing aids last? How often would one need to change or replace their hearing aids?
In this blog, we will address these questions and concerns and help you get the most out of your hearing aids.
Your new hearing buddy
Hearing aids can significantly improve a person’s quality of life by making communication easier and reducing the strain and frustration associated with hearing loss. They can help with daily activities such as listening to the TV, participating in conversations, and attending events with background noise.
Additionally, hearing aids can improve a person’s emotional well-being and social interactions, as they can help prevent feelings of isolation and loneliness that can often accompany untreated hearing loss.
Whether you are a first-time hearing aid user or not, an audiologist will typically give you basic tips the moment you are fitted with a new hearing aid. This may be a routine step in hearing aid acquisition but if you look at the bigger picture, this is actually a key component in extending the longevity of a hearing device.
Knowing the proper way to use and handle the hearing aid, the correct way to clean it, the right way to change the batteries, etc. will all work together to ensure that you are getting the best out of your device.
Factors that affect hearing aid lifespan
Different styles of hearing aids have different life spans due to a variety of factors, including the type of technology used, the materials and manufacturing process, and the amount of wear and tear the device is exposed to.
- Technology: More advanced hearing aids have a longer lifespan due to their modern components and sophisticated technology. For example, some hearing aids now have rechargeable batteries, which can last longer than disposable batteries used in traditional hearing aids.
- Materials and manufacturing process: The materials used in the construction of the hearing aid, such as the tubing, casing, and batteries, can affect device longevity. Hearing aids made with premium, durable, and resilient materials are more likely to last longer. Additionally, the manufacturing process, including the level of quality control and testing, can impact the longevity of the device.
- Wear and Tear: The amount of wear and tear a hearing aid is exposed to can also impact its lifespan. Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids are more durable than in-the-ear (ITE) or in-the-canal (ITC) styles, as they are less likely to be damaged by moisture or impact. However, BTEs are more visible and can be more susceptible to damage from physical activities or rough handling.
Factors that affect needing new hearing aids
- Changes in your lifestyle affect the need to consider newer technology. Those changes can include:
- Changes in your hearing. If your hearing loss is getting worse, either gradually or rapidly, it is possible that your current set of hearing aids are not strong enough to meet your hearing prescription.
- Changes in your lifestyle. If you have had a change in social demand, such as transitioning from a quiet, work-from-home setting to a noisy workplace, your current set of hearing aids may need more sophisticated built-in technology to meet your hearing needs.
- Changes in memory. If your loved one is experiencing significant changes in memory, it is possible his/her current set of hearing aids is too complicated to manage. There are specific hearing solutions for people who need more maintenance-free hearing aids.
Hearing Aids in Lawrenceville, NJ
Different styles of hearing aids have varying lifespans due to a combination of factors related to technology, materials, manufacturing, and usage.
To ensure that you get the most out of your hearing aids, it is important to choose a high-quality hearing aid, take good care of it, and have regular check-ups with an audiologist.
Oracle Hearing Center has audiologists who can fit you with the best hearing aids in Lawrenceville, NJ.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment!