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You got hearing aids because you want to be fully engaged in all the moments in your life, big or small. Whether that’s going to a concert, enjoying dinner out with your partner or celebrating your grandchild’s birthday at Gage Park, you want to be present.
What you don’t want is for your hearing aids to malfunction or stop working completely during these life moments. One of the best ways to ensure that your hearing aids are working to the best of their ability is to schedule regular check-ups with your audiologist.
How Often Should I Get My Hearing Aids Checked?
We recommend seeing your audiologist for a check-up every six months to a year. You can make sure that everything is working properly with your device, and also have a discussion with your audiologist about your hearing needs.
Hearing needs change over time. Research has shown that screenings from a hearing professional influence whether a patient gets help for their hearing loss. By regularly checking in with your audiologist, you are ensuring your hearing needs continue to be met. Even the slightest changes in programming to your hearing aids can make a big difference in hearing quality.
Taking Care of Hearing Aids in Between Visits
In between check-ups with your audiologist, there are many steps you can take to take care of your hearing aids, including:
Daily cleaning. Your hearing aids are regularly exposed to heat, moisture and earwax among other things. These elements can damage the electrical components of your hearing aid. Wipe down your device with a soft, dry cloth. Or if you can get a cleaning tool with a wire loop, magnet and brush.
Store your hearing aids in a cool, dry place away from moisture or direct sunlight.
Change out dead batteries immediately.
Use any hairspray, hair gel, or face creams before inserting hearing aids.
When to Consider an Upgrade
The average lifespan of a hearing aid is about five or six years. After that time their performance naturally starts to wane. Not only that, but rapid technological advances mean today’s digital devices are more powerful and come packed with features for improved sound quality than those just a few years older.
If you have questions about your hearing aids or wish to schedule an appointment, contact Topeka ENT today to speak with an expert audiologist.