Technological advancements are continuing to see major changes in the industry, and just like any regular piece of technology, hearing aids are prone to becoming outdated.

Many of my patients love witnessing the changes in their hearing following an upgrade to their device, especially seeing how much it filters into their daily lives.

Except, with all the conflicting information on the internet, it can be incredibly confusing knowing the correct steps to take, such as when you should upgrade your hearing aids and what to do with your old ones.

How Long do Hearing Aids Last?

On average, hearing aids last between 4-5 years. However, this depends on how well they have been looked after, the hearing aid device fitted, and the individual’s personal preference.

Many people choose to upgrade their hearing aid before the 5-year mark and take advantage of technology improvements.

Whether it means moving to hearing aids with more sensitive noise reduction, hearing aids that connect to their phone, or hearing aids that allows for adjustments without having to come into the office, technology changes, and all of these types of benefits are indeed game-changers for many people.

To ensure that your hearing aids last as long as possible, it is important to have regular maintenance checks in our office. These visits allow us to fix many problems with your hearing aids before you even notice them yourself! It also allows us to check your ears for ear wax, test your hearing, update your hearing aid software and make changes to your hearing aid programs that will improve your communication ability.

When is the Right Time to Upgrade?

The right time to upgrade is different for every person, with each individual experiencing a different journey with their hearing.

For those who depend entirely on their hearing aids for communication, an upgrade will happen every two to three years. Except, for others, the 4-5-year mark is a reasonable expectation.

Any Medical Reasons to Upgrade?

Hearing aids are more than just amplifiers; they help tackle medical issues that assist many individuals in their day-to-day lives. This means that there are different options available that can tailor to each individual.

For example, if you often have outer or middle ear infections or build-up wax quickly, a different hearing aid style may benefit you.

Likewise, if you suffer from tinnitus or fluctuating hearing loss, it may be time to switch to a hearing aid with multiple program options to help deal with those issues.

There is a wide range of options available to relieve any medical conditions for the individual, meaning it is always worth following up with your doctor to see what works best for you.

What Should I Do with My Old Hearing Aids?

Before hesitating to chuck your old ones away, consider donating them to our office! The spare parts will be much appreciated, and we will either pass them on to be recycled into hearing aids that will be used on mission trips or donate them to someone in need. Depending on your hearing aids' age, you will also discount off your next set of hearing aids! Whatever your concerns, our team are on hand to help and will be happy to talk through the process with you. From queries about upgrades or hearing aid repairs, our team is trained to deal with any of your concerns and will always offer you a solution to the problem. If you or a loved one is ready to upgrade their devices or want advice on your options, call us today to find out more at 210-820-0525.