Hearing aids are an incredible tool for millions of people with hearing loss. However, as with all technology, there will come a time when your hearing aids no longer meet your needs, and you will need to upgrade to a new pair. Sometimes, this is due to problems with your devices, and sometimes, it is because your individual needs have changed.
How Often Should I Upgrade My Hearing Aids?
There is no concrete rule on how often hearing aid users should upgrade. On average, you can expect to upgrade every three to five years. Let’s discuss some reasons why this may be.
What Are Common Reasons to Upgrade My Hearing Aids?
Degradation of the Hearing Aid
If your hearing aids are five years or older, they are likely going to start to succumb to some normal wear and tear. Despite your constant care, moisture damage and exposure to the elements will slowly break your hearing aid down over time. Additionally, they won’t be as efficient as newer hearing aids at critical functions, such as suppressing background noise and automatically adjusting to different listening environments.
Your Health Has Changed
Sensorineural hearing loss continues to progress, even when receiving treatment. Your hearing may reach a point where you require devices with stronger capabilities. Additionally, medical conditions like heart disease or autoimmune disorders (among others) may worsen your hearing loss.
Moreover, some health conditions can affect what hearing aids might work best for you. If you develop arthritis or other issues that affect your dexterity, smaller hearing aid models that fit completely in the ear canal might be hard to adjust or change the batteries.
You Want Access to Newer Hearing Aid Technology
One reason people upgrade their hearing aids every three to five years is that technology advances significantly in that time. Your cutting-edge hearing aids from five years ago could now seem rather basic compared to today’s hearing aids.
For example, many newer hearing aid models come equipped with Bluetooth® technology. This allows you to pair your hearing aids with your smartphone or other device and stream music, podcasts, phone calls and videos directly into your hearing aids. There’s also AI sound processing, which uses AI to discern your listening needs in the moment and adjust automatically.
You Picked Up a New Hobby
Not every new hobby requires a change in hearing aids. However, if you have recently started hiking in Panorama Park, cycling or engaging in other outdoor activities, you may need to upgrade to hearing aids better equipped to handle rugged environments and to suppress wind noise.
Is It Time for Me to Upgrade My Hearing Aids?
If any of the reasons listed above sound familiar to you, it may be time for a hearing aid upgrade. Call your audiologist at The House Institute today for a follow-up appointment to discuss your current hearing aids and whether they’re meeting your hearing needs. If it’s time for an upgrade, we are happy to discuss modern hearing aids and options with you!