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If you are a hearing aid user, it’s essential to understand what factors determine when you need to upgrade to a new pair. While if your hearing aids break or start to malfunction significantly, a change is obviously necessary, other circumstances may be less clear.
Six Reasons to Consider New Hearing Aids
Your hearing aids are five years or older. Most technology has a shelf-life, and hearing aids are no exception. While practicing proper maintenance and cleaning techniques can extend the lifespan, most hearing aids will succumb to normal wear and tear after five years.
Your technology is outdated. Even if your hearing aids aren’t five years old, you may realize they don’t offer the technology you want. Many newer hearing aids have features like the ability to stream audio from your smartphone or tablet directly into your ears, making everything from phone calls with your family to listening to your favorite podcast that much easier.
You have a new hobby. Not all new hobbies require a change in hearing aids. However, if you’ve recently taken up biking or hiking through Shunga Trail, you may need hearing aids that can withstand more rugged conditions and come with programs to better suppress wind noise.
You’ve developed dexterity issues. Arthritis or other health conditions that affect dexterity can make it harder to adjust and change the batteries on smaller hearing aid models. In this case, it can be helpful to upgrade to a larger model and perhaps a rechargeable one to avoid frequently changing batteries.
Your hearing needs have changed. It’s not uncommon for hearing loss to change over time, much like our vision changes. When this happens, it’s important to visit your audiologist to see what your current hearing needs are and to find a new pair that best meets them.
Ready For Your First Pair of Hearing Aids?
If you’ve noticed changes in your hearing and have been mulling seeking treatment, now is the time to schedule an appointment with an audiologist. Research estimates that nearly 28.8 million Americans could benefit from hearing aids. The sooner your hearing loss is diagnosed and treated, the easier it will be to stay connected with friends and family and engage in activities that bring you joy.
To learn more or to schedule an appointment with one of our experts, contact Topeka Ear Nose & Throat today.