Hearing aids are a fantastic tool that improves the lives of millions with hearing loss. Research shows that people who treat their hearing loss with hearing aids experience a better quality of life.
However, like any technology, there comes a time when even the best pair of hearing aids need to be upgraded.
Let’s take a look at some of the ways you can tell it’s time to get new hearing aids.
Conversations Are Becoming Harder to Follow
One of the reasons you first got hearing aids was likely because you noticed that you were having a harder time conversing with others. If you’re starting to experience problems understanding people at work, the grocery store or when out trying to enjoy oysters with your family at Fuller’s Raw Bar, it’s time to make an appointment with your audiologist.
Our hearing needs can change over time, and a new pair of hearing aids with different settings or capabilities may be what you need moving forward.
You Have Made Big Life Changes
When you get fitted with hearing aids, your audiologist takes into account your lifestyle, including family life, job responsibilities and hobbies. They do this because all of these things can affect what you need from your hearing aids. If you’ve switched from working at home to working in a busy office or if you’ve started sailing or another outdoor hobby that requires better wind reduction technology, your hearing aids may need to change as well.
You Have Developed Certain Health Conditions
Similarly, certain health conditions may require a change in hearing aids. For example, if you develop arthritis, it may become extremely difficult to adjust the settings and change the batteries on extra small devices. It may be helpful to switch to a hearing aid that has automated settings and a bigger battery door or rechargeable batteries that don’t have to be changed out for years.
You Have Had Your Hearing Aids for Over Five Years
All hearing aids come with a shelf-life. While you can take steps to extend the lifespan of your hearing aids by properly cleaning and caring for them, most start to succumb to normal wear and tear after five years of everyday use.
You may notice that sound is distorted or muffled or that your battery drains much quicker than it used to. If you’re experiencing these issues or other signs of malfunction, it’s time to see your audiologist. While some issues can be repaired, if your device is older, it may be a wise choice to invest in a new pair that is equipped with even better and more advanced technology.
To upgrade your hearing aids or learn what options are available to you, contact the experts at Hampton Roads ENT ~ Allergy today.