When you purchase hearing aids and finally regain control over your hearing, you might hope they will work forever. Unfortunately, like most things, they will only last so long and, eventually, will need to be replaced.
But when is the right time to purchase new hearing devices?
There are several reasons why it might be time to say goodbye to the hearing aids you have and hello to something new. In the following, we’ll share the top 5 reasons you should upgrade.
1. Your lifestyle has changed.
One reason people choose to replace their hearing aids is lifestyle changes. Perhaps when you purchased your first pair of hearing aids, you spent most of your time in environments with minimal background noise, but more recently, you’ve been in situations where more noise is present.
In this case, your current device may no longer accommodate your lifestyle, and upgrading to a more high-powered device may be necessary. Devices like the Cheer 20 offer more significant background noise reduction, which can help you to hear your best in even the noisiest environments.
2. Your hearing loss has changed.
Some forms of hearing loss may not fluctuate significantly. However, degenerative forms, like age-related hearing loss, often grow worse over time. Likewise, exposure to loud noises, head injuries, serious illnesses, or medication can exacerbate existing hearing loss. In these cases, a new hearing aid may be needed to accommodate the new hearing loss.
The best way to find out if your hearing loss has changed is to get a hearing test. You can visit your ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor and take a hearing exam. Even better, get your hearing checked yearly, so you can monitor your hearing loss and how it changes over time.
If your hearing test confirms that your hearing has changed, you may benefit from upgrading. For a subtle change in your hearing loss, a power upgrade may be sufficient. However, if more significant changes occurred, you may need new hearing aids for your new level of hearing loss.
3. Your hearing aids haven’t been maintained.
Just like a car, if you keep up on maintenance, your hearing aids will last you for years to come. Conversely, if you fail to maintain your hearing aids, there’s a strong chance that they won’t last you as long as they could.
But why? Your ears are constantly producing ear wax, and while you wear devices in your ears, that earwax can’t easily exit your ears. That’s why it’s important to take your hearing aids out at night to let both your ears and hearing aids air out, as well as to clean them regularly.
For the best, and longest lasting, hearing experience, keep your hearing aids clean and change your tubes and domes at least once every 3 months. You can take a look at our YouTube video on how to clean the tubes for more details.
4. Your hearing aids are over 5 years old.
Generally, our products last between 3 to 5 years. As mentioned, if you properly maintain your hearing aids, they will have a higher likelihood of lasting longer. However, other factors influence the life of your hearing aid as well.
Also like your car, the more you use your hearing aids, the more quickly they will wear out. For instance, devices like the HCR3 are limited to their battery life. While the HCR3 can last up to 1,000 charges (or roughly 3 years), a battery replacement may be necessary after that point.
5. You’re interested in the latest hearing technology.
Even if your hearing aids still work just fine, after you’ve had them for a while, you may notice that hearing aid technology is continuing to improve and offer new features that make hearing better easier than ever.
For example, many hearing aid wearers are excited about rechargeable devices like the HCR3. Instead of replacing batteries every few days, you can charge your battery for just 2 hours for a 16-hour life.
Smartphone-controlled hearing aids are also growing in popularity. Rather than visiting an audiologist, you can make adjustments to devices like the HCEQ using an app on your phone. If either of these features could benefit you, replacing your current device may be the next logical step.
Ready to Upgrade?
If one or more of these reasons apply to you, it may be time to replace your hearing aid, and we’re happy to help you do so. Advanced Affordable Hearing can send a brand new pair of hearing aids directly to your door for a price much lower than your local hearing provider.
First, take a look at our Online Hearing Check, or call one of our friendly customer service representatives at 1 (800) 804-0434. That way, you will be able to select the best device for your specific type of hearing loss.
To continue hearing your best, contact us today.