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Many of the products you can find at Electronic Life have rechargeable batteries, including smartphones, iPods, MP3 players, tablets and laptops. Did you know that many of today’s hearing aids are also available in rechargeable models?
Rechargeable hearing aids have built-in batteries that never need to be removed or replaced; instead, you simply dock your hearing aids at night in a charging unit, similar to how you charge your phone.
Benefits of Rechargeable Hearing Aids
There are many reasons rechargeable hearing aids are advantageous over hearing aids that take traditional batteries, which are overviewed below.
Longer Shelf Life
Batteries in rechargeable hearing aids have a much longer shelf life than those in traditional hearing aids. Today’s devices can hold a charge for as long as 30 hours, and the devices themselves last an average of five years.
In contrast, traditional hearing aid button batteries need to be replaced every three to ten days, costing an estimated $150 per year.
Safer for Kids & Pets
Disposable button batteries are extremely hazardous if accidentally swallowed by a child or pet. Unfortunately, this is all too common, as they can easily be accessed if thrown into a trash can. Rechargeable batteries only pose this risk if the whole device is ingested.
Easier to Handle
Rechargeable hearing aids are advantageous for people with dexterity issues. Having to change button batteries can be a barrier for some people that keeps them from being able to wear hearing aids. Rechargeable devices eliminate this problem.
Rechargeable Batteries Aren’t for Everyone
While rechargeable hearing aids are a great option for those who are looking to reduce waste, who want to eliminate the cost associated with batteries, who spend time around kids and pets or who have dexterity issues, they aren’t for everyone.
Some disadvantages of rechargeable hearing aid batteries include:
Dependence on a charging unit. For those who already charge their smartphones or other electronics every night, remembering to place hearing aids on a charging dock shouldn’t be an issue. However, if you are forgetful or don’t have this routine, you may find yourself waking up to a dead battery and need to wait several hours before you can use your device.
Additional cost. While rechargeable hearing aids don’t require you to purchase batteries, they do have a higher up-front cost.
Fewer options. Not all hearing aids have a rechargeable counterpart; if you’re looking for a rechargeable device, your options are more limited.
For more information about rechargeable hearing aids or to schedule an appointment with a hearing aid expert, call Topeka ENT today.