With correct care, hearing aids can last for several years, but their performance depends on their alignment with your current level of hearing loss. Getting routine hearing evaluations is key to making sure your hearing aids are programmed and fit properly. Assuming appropriate programming and fitting, here’s a guide for their longevity.
Do hearing aids have a lifespan?
Hearing aids absolutely have a lifespan much like most things. Much like the perishability of milk or the longevity of canned goods, hearing aids also have a limited period of optimum functionality. Even sophisticated electronics, such as your state-of-the-art TV, will eventually warrant an upgrade. It’s no surprise, then, that hearing aids also function within a lifespan.
Two to five years is a standard lifespan for modern hearing aids but as technology accelerates, you might want to update sooner. However, the lifespan of your hearing aids hinges on a few factors:
- Maintenance: Obviously, you will get a longer lifespan from your hearing aid with conscientious care. Functional longevity is greatly extended by regular maintenance and cleaning.
- Construction: Modern hearing aids have diverse materials, from silicon to metal to nano-coated plastics. While manufactured for durability, the type of materials may effect longevity, especially if you’re prone to accidental drops.
- Batteries: While the majority of hearing aids use internal rechargeable batteries, the type of battery can impact all-around longevity.
- Type: Inside-the-ear and behind the ear are the two main types of hearing aids. Behind-the -ear models will usually last 6 to 7 years due to the enhanced protection from moisture in comparison to inside-the-ear models which will typically last from 3 to 5 years.
Failure to routinely wear and maintain your hearing aids can have an impact on lifespan as calculated longevity is based on typical usage. Professional check-ups and cleaning sessions are crucial to ensure proper fit and functionality, especially considering possible wax build-up.
Expecting when to replace your hearing aids
As time passes, you may detect a decline in hearing aid performance, letting you know that it’s time for replacement. However, certain situations might warrant an earlier upgrade:
- Hearing changes: As hearing loss progresses, reprogramming becomes more and more important and it may become less expensive and time consuming to simply invest in a new pair.
- Lifestyle shifts: Changing lifestyles might necessitate features such as waterproofing or improved durability, prompting an upgrade to better suit your needs.
- Technological advancements: You might consider an upgrade to a more current and sophisticated model that has recently been released.
When you consider the large amount of variables, it can be fairly difficult to exactly predict when an upgrade will be necessary. But 2 to 5 years is typically a reliable guideline.
Think it might be time for an upgrade? Call us today to make an appointment.