Physically, you will usually get several years out of your hearing aids, but as your degree of hearing loss changes, your hearing aids may need an update. Similar to prescription glasses, hearing aids are personalized to support your specific auditory requirements, requiring regular reassessment. Assuming correct programming and fitting, here’s a guideline for their longevity.
Is there a lifespan for hearing aids?
Just like most commodities, hearing aids have a lifespan. Hearing aids will have a time frame of optimal efficiency much like any device will. Pretty much all electronic devices will either quit working at an optimal level or become antiquated and replaced with newer more advanced technology eventually. It’s not surprising, then, that hearing aids also function within a lifespan.
Two to five years is a typical lifespan for modern hearing aids but as technology advances, you may want to upgrade sooner. However, the lifespan of your hearing aids is dependent on several factors:
- Maintenance: Needless to say, you will get a longer lifespan from your hearing aid with conscientious care. Functional longevity is considerably prolonged by regular maintenance and cleaning.
- Construction: Contemporary hearing aids are built from various materials, from nano-coated plastics, to metal to silicon. If you are especially accident prone, materials that are on the more robust side would be a better choice for longevity.
- Type: Inside-the-ear and behind the ear are the two primary types of hearing aids. Behind-the -ear models will normally last 6 to 7 years due to the enhanced protection from moisture in comparison to inside-the-ear models which will typically last from 3 to 5 years.
- Batteries: Modern hearing aids nearly always use rechargeable batteries now, but battery type can definitely impact longevity.
While the approximated lifespan is based on typical usage, neglecting to use or maintain your hearing aids might effect their effectiveness. Professional check-ups and cleaning courses are essential to ensure proper fit and functionality, especially considering possible wax build-up.
Anticipating when to replace your hearing aids
You might find that it’s time for an upgraded when, over time, you start to detect a drop in the performance of your hearing aid. Here are a few situations where you might need to upgrade sooner:
- Technological advancements: You might consider an upgrade to a more current and advanced model that has recently been launched.
- Lifestyle shifts: You might decide it’s time for an upgrade when you have a change of lifestyle and realize you need some new features.
- Hearing changes: As hearing loss progresses, recalibration becomes more and more necessary and it might become less costly and time consuming to just get a new pair.
When you consider the large amount of variables, it can be rather hard to precisely predict when an upgrade will be needed. But 2 to 5 years is generally a dependable guideline.
Wondering if your hearing aids could use an upgrade? Make an appointment for a consultation with us right away.