With proper care, hearing aids can last for a number of years, but their effectiveness depends on whether they’re programmed to your present level of hearing loss. Comparable to prescription glasses, hearing aids are customized to support your specific auditory requirements, necessitating regular reassessment. Assuming correct programming and fitting, here’s a guide for their longevity.
Do hearing aids have a lifespan?
Similar to most commodities, hearing aids have a lifespan. Much like the perishability of milk or the longevity of canned goods, hearing aids also come with a limited period of optimum functionality. Virtually all electronic devices will either stop working at an optimal level or become antiquated and replaced with newer more sophisticated technology eventually. So it most likely won’t come as a surprise that hearing aids also have a lifespan.
Two to five years is a standard lifespan for contemporary hearing aids but as technology advances, you may want to update sooner. Here are some of the most prominent factors affecting the lifespan of your hearing aids:
- Maintenance: Obviously, you will get a longer lifespan from your hearing aid with diligent care. Regular cleaning and upkeep will significantly prolong functional longevity.
- Batteries: Modern hearing aids nearly always use rechargeable batteries now, but battery type can definitely effect longevity.
- Type: Hearing aids come in two primary forms: inside-the-ear and behind-the-ear. Inside-the-ear models, exposed to the ear canal’s sweat and debris, usually last around five years, while behind-the-ear models last for around 6 to 7 years due to their increased protection against moisture and dirt.
- Construction: Modern hearing aids have diverse materials, from silicon to metal to nano-coated plastics. If you are especially accident prone, materials that are on the more robust side would be a better option for longevity.
While the estimated lifespan is based on ordinary usage, neglecting to use or maintain your hearing aids might effect their effectiveness. Considering potential earwax build-up, routine cleanings and check-ups are critical to optimum functionality and fit.
Anticipating when to replace your hearing aids
You might find that it’s time for an upgraded when, over time, you begin to notice a decline in the performance of your hearing aid. However, certain circumstances may justify an earlier upgrade:
- Lifestyle shifts: You may decide it’s time for an upgrade when you have a change of lifestyle and realize you require some new features.
- Technological advancements: You might consider an upgrade to a more current and advanced model that has recently been launched.
- Hearing changes: As hearing loss advances, reprogramming becomes more and more important and it might become less costly and time consuming to just invest in a new set.
Predicting the precise timespan for hearing aid replacement proves to be a challenge, given the multitude of variables. But 2 to 5 years is usually a reliable guideline.
Think it may be time for an upgrade? Make an appointment for a consultation with us right away.