Almost 30 million people in the U.S. need hearing aids. If you’re one of them and you’ve been wearing your hearing aids for a couple of years, you know these critical devices bring clarity to your listening ability and stronger connections to the people around you. However, you may wonder if your hearing aids will need to be upgraded someday, and if so, when.
Do I Need to Upgrade My Hearing Aids?
Just like your other essential electronics—your laptop, your smartphone—your hearing aids will need an upgrade someday. While there are plenty of strategies you can use to lengthen the lifespan of your hearing aids, such as keeping to a daily cleaning routine and attending service appointments for your hearing aids on a regular basis, your hearing aids won’t last forever. On average, most people wear a set for three to seven years before needing an upgrade.
What Are the Indicators That It’s Time for an Upgrade?
Even with great care, your hearing aids will need an upgrade at some point. Here are some of the primary reasons why hearing aid users need to upgrade their set:
- Normal wear and tear. Your hearing aids sustain heavy, daily use. Electrical parts, such as microprocessors, speakers, microphones or batteries, will degrade over time, and you may notice your hearing aids malfunctioning or dying frequently, or that the sound quality is noticeably deteriorating. If this is happening, it’s time to retire your current set.
- Damage or loss. Accidents happen! Misplacing or damaging your hearing aids will necessitate a new pair.
- Technological advancements. One main reason to upgrade is that hearing aid technology advances so rapidly. Your hearing aids may have been top-of-the-line five years ago, but they may now seem outdated in comparison to newer models.
- Progression of hearing loss. Your hearing aids are calibrated to meet your hearing loss needs, but hearing loss continues to progress. Your hearing loss could reach a point at which your current set cannot meet your needs adequately, at which point it’s time to trade up to something that can.
How Do I Discuss Upgrading with My Audiologist?
Your audiologist knows that hearing aids are a significant investment, but they also know that hearing aids bring innumerable benefits to your life. They want to make sure you’re getting the hearing care you deserve so you can hear your best.
If you think it’s time to upgrade your hearing aids, bring it up with your audiologist and get their advice. Depending on the reason for the upgrade, they may perform a hearing test to update your audiogram or examine your current hearing aids for potential needed repairs. Our expert team at San Diego ENT is here to guide you through your hearing loss journey and get you the tools you need to be successful. Call today to learn more.