Once you adjust to wearing a hearing aid, it’s hard to be without it. After all, your hearing aids are crucial to connect to your world. But it will occasionally need to be updated or replaced just like any technology.
The Normal Hearing Aid Lifespan
So the typical hearing aid will last how long?3 to 5 years will be the normal lifespan of a typical hearing aid. So that you can be sure hearing aids are still your best choice, you need to have your hearing tested periodically because there’s no hard and fast rule. Assuming your hearing doesn’t change, some models wear out more quickly than others and technology is constantly changing.
Your Hearing Aid Longevity May be Affected by These Variables
Because that’s only the average, right? Which means that hearing aids may last a lot longer for many individuals. How long your hearing aids will last is influenced by a number of considerations:
- How frequently your hearing aids are worn: So if you use your hearing aid more frequently, you will need a new one sooner. But modern hearing aids are designed to be used for long periods so that’s not always the case. 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 have to replace your hearing aid.
- Quality of Build: It’s costly to buy hearing aids. But, as with most things in life, you commonly get what you pay for. Your hearing aid will probably last longer if it is built better.
- Complexity of the hearing aid: A lot more can go wrong with your hearing aid if it’s more complex because there are more variables to contend with. Don’t get me wrong sometimes you need that added complexity, and usually, it ends up being worth it. But added complex technology does introduce a breakability element. Advanced hearing aids have become very wise about introducing more functionality using software rather than hardware, which is helpful.
- Maintenance and regular care: In many ways, a hearing aid is like most other pieces of technology: 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 upkeep just as the manufacturer suggests.
- Capability: Technology is constantly changing, and hearing aids have been changing too. If you want your hearing aids to have the clearest sound, you might want to upgrade. This will also allow you to sync your device to your television, smartphone and other devices.
- Your Hearing Changes: Those little, easy to hide devices are often the choice of adults who use hearing aids. Those devices have the exact amount of power you need and are very precisely calibrated. You might need to switch to a more powerful hearing aid if your hearing gets worse.
Can You Make Your Hearing Aids Last Longer?
We have to acknowledge that hearing aids are pretty personal things. In many instances, they are programmed exclusively for your ears and might have custom molds. Also, they are a significant investment. So it’s a common objective to get the most that you can from your hearing aid.
And it’s an achievable one. Taking good care of your hearing aids is the best thing you can do to be certain that your hearing aids last as long as possible. Getting them wet or dropping them are things you should not do if possible. And make sure you do all the necessary maintenance and cleaning.
Your hearing aids should last around five years. Whether you can get more than that is, generally, up to chance. But sometimes it’s up to you. Ultimately, newer hearing aids provide features you will probably want. So, schedule an appointment for a hearing test right away to find out which hearing aid is the best one for you.