It’s difficult to be without your hearing aid once you get accustomed to having one. Let’s face it, if you want to stay connected to the world, your hearing aids are crucial. But it will periodically need to be updated or replaced just like all technology.
The Normal Lifespan of a Hearing Aid
So how long can you expect the average hearing aid to last? 3 to 5 years will be the normal lifespan of a typical hearing aid. But that’s not a strict rule, and you should have your hearing tested regularly to be sure your hearing aid is still the best choice for you. Technology is continuously changing and some hearing aids wear out more rapidly than others, assuming your hearing doesn’t change.
Variables That May Affect Your Hearing Aid Longevity
But that’s only the average life of a hearing aid. Which means that hearing aids may last much longer for many individuals. How long your hearing aids will last is influenced by a number of considerations:
- The Hearing Aid’s Complexity: A lot more can go wrong with your hearing aid if it’s more complex because there are more variables to contend with. However, sometimes you need that added sophistication, and often, it ends up being worth it. But additional complex technology does present a breakability factor. Advanced hearing aids have become very clever about presenting more functionality using software rather than hardware, which does help.
- Functionality: Hearing aids have been changing along with constantly advancing technology. If you want your hearing aids to sync up with your smartphone, television, or other devices, or to just have the best sound, you might want to upgrade.
- How frequently your hearing aids are used: To a certain extent, the more frequently you use your hearing aid, the sooner you’ll need a new one. But that’s not always true, modern hearing aids are intended to be used for long durations. Perhaps a better way to say it is that the more often you cycle power settings (turn the device on and off), the sooner you might need to replace your hearing aid.
- Regular care and upkeep: A hearing aid is like all other technology in many ways: it will last longer if you take better care of it. That’s the reason why you should always clean your hearing aids and conduct regular maintenance just as as per the manufacturer’s recommendation.
- Your Hearing Changes: If you’re an adult and you have a hearing aid, you’ve likely gone with one of those very tiny, easy to hide devices. Those devices have the exact amount of power you require and are very precisely calibrated. You may need to switch to a more powerful hearing aid if your hearing gets worse.
- Quality of Build: Hearing aids are expensive. But you usually get what you pay for, as with most things. Your hearing aid will probably last longer if it is constructed better.
Can You Make Your Hearing Aids Last Longer?
We need to recognize that hearing aids are pretty personal things. In many cases, they are programmed specifically for your ears and may have custom molds. They are also a significant investment. So getting the most bang for your buck getting your hearing aid to last as long as possible is a common goal.
And it’s an achievable one. Really, the best thing you can do to make certain your hearing aids last as long as possible is to care for them. Dropping them or getting them wet are things you should never do if possible. And make sure you do all the required upkeep and cleaning.
You’ll normally be able to get around five years from your hearing aid. Whether you will be able to get more than that is, often, up to chance. But sometimes it’s up to you. Inevitably, you will likely want the new features offered by modern hearing aids. So, to find out what hearing aid is best for you, schedule a hearing exam today.