Physically, you will normally get several years out of your hearing aids, but as your degree of hearing loss changes, your hearing aids might need an upgrade. Comparable to prescription glasses, hearing aids are personalized to accommodate your specific auditory needs, requiring regular reassessment. Assuming appropriate programming and fitting, here’s a guide for their longevity.
Is there a lifespan for hearing aids?
Hearing aids absolutely have a lifespan much like most things. 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 no surprise, then, that hearing aids also operate within a lifespan.
Two to five years is a standard lifespan for modern hearing aids but as technology accelerates, you might want to update sooner. Here are a number of the most notable factors influencing 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 substantially prolong functional 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 about five years, while behind-the-ear models last for about 6 to 7 years as a result of their enhanced 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 durable side would be a better option for longevity.
- Batteries: While most hearing aids use internal rechargeable batteries, the type of battery can influence all-around longevity.
Failure to regularly wear and maintain your hearing aids can have an effect on lifespan as estimated longevity is based on typical usage. Considering possible earwax build-up, routine cleanings and check-ups are essential to optimal functionality and fit.
When to anticipate replacement
As time passes, you may notice a decline in hearing aid performance, letting you know that it’s time for replacement. However, certain situations may justify an earlier upgrade:
- Technological advancements: You may consider an upgrade to a more current and sophisticated model that has recently been launched.
- Lifestyle shifts: Changing lifestyles may demand features such as waterproofing or increased durability, prompting an upgrade to better suit your needs.
- Hearing changes: As hearing loss progresses, recalibration becomes more and more necessary and it might become less expensive and time consuming to simply invest in a new pair.
When you consider the large number of variables, it can be relatively hard to precisely predict when an upgrade will be needed. Still, a general guideline of 2 to 5 years provides a dependable reference point.
Think it may be time for an upgrade? Call us today to schedule an appointment.