When to Update Your Hearing Aid

Oct 31, 2016

When to Update Your Hearing Aid

Hearing aids are wonderful devices, but like other sophisticated electronics, they don’t last forever. There are several reasons why you may want to update them. Over time, changes in your hearing and lifestyle may require a new and different kind of hearing aid. Technology is also changing quickly and with so many innovative and hi-tech new hearing aids out there, it’s never a bad time to think about an upgrade.

Hearing aid lifespan

Hearing aids usually have a lifespan of between three to seven years. Regular maintenance and daily cleaning will help to preserve the life of the hearing aids and batteries, but daily wear and tear is unavoidable. If your hearing aids are not performing as well as they used to, it may be a sign that it’s time to upgrade.

Changes in your hearing

Our hearing naturally changes as we get older. People aged over 65 should have an annual hearing test– but if you notice any kind of change in your hearing, arrange a test with your hearing specialist as soon as possible. If your hearing has changed beyond the range of your current hearing device, you may need to look for a more powerful hearing aid, or one more suitable to your kind of hearing loss.

Changes in your lifestyle

Your hearing aid needs to keep pace with your lifestyle – and our lifestyles are constantly changing. Perhaps you’ve found a new job, had a change of career or got the promotion. This might mean you’re working in a noisier and more demanding environment, and your current hearing aids might not be up to the task. Think about your hobbies, sports and social activities - if you’ve taken up sailing, it would be a good idea to find a waterproof hearing aid. If you’re regularly attending lectures or your place of worship, you may need a hearing aid with good echo protection for those cavernous rooms.

New technologies

The hearing aid market is fast-paced, and new technologies and innovations are being unveiled all the time. New hearing aid programs and features offer different ways to solve classic problems. If you have problems following conversations in noisy rooms, or you often experience feedback, there will be a clever new hearing aid that can make life a lot easier.

Many companies now make hearing devices that can sync with smartphones, tablets and computers via Bluetooth. This means you can wirelessly stream phone calls, music and all other audio directly to your ears. You can also discreetly adjust your hearing aid settings from your phone while you’re on-the-go. If you’re an Apple fan, look out for special Made For iPhone hearing aids offered by ReSound, which can connect directly to your iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch. It’s the perfect communication solution for everyone from teenagers to business folk.

If you’re tired of buying and changing hearing aid batteries, it’s a great idea to look for a hearing aid with rechargeable batteries. Phonak’s new Audéo B-R hearing aid is a brilliant example of how far battery technology has progressed. Its lithium-ion rechargeable battery means you’ll never have to worry about changing a battery ever again.

A whole new look

Hearing aids are also getting smaller and more sophisticated all the time. Modern hearing aids now come in a range of colours with improved fittings, for a more comfortable and personal experience. New In-the-Canal (ITC) and Completely-in-Canal (CIC) hearing aids are so small as to be almost invisible. Most classic Behind-the-Ear (BTE) hearing aids now feature sleek, discreet and attractive designs. If your hearing aid is feeling or looking a little outdated, it might be time to see what else is on the market.

If you think it’s time for an upgrade or you’re interested in checking out some new hearing aids, get in touch with us today! Our hearing care specialists are happy to talk through your needs and options to help you find a solution that’s right for you. Give us a call on 0131 220 1220, or get in touch online.