With correct care, hearing aids can last for several years, but their effectiveness depends on their alignment with your current level of hearing loss. Comparable to prescription glasses, hearing aids are personalized to accommodate your specific auditory needs, requiring regular reassessment. Assuming appropriate programming and fitting, here’s a guide for their longevity.
Do hearing aids have a lifespan?
Hearing aids certainly have a lifespan just like most things. Hearing aids will have a time frame of optimum efficiency much like any device will. Even sophisticated electronics, like 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 typical lifespan for contemporary hearing aids but as technology accelerates, you might want to upgrade sooner. Here are some of the most prominent factors affecting the lifespan of your hearing aids:
- Type: Hearing aids come in two primary forms: inside-the-ear and behind-the-ear. Behind-the -ear models will typically last 6 to 7 years as a result of the enhanced protection from moisture compared to inside-the-ear models which will typically last from 3 to 5 years.
- Construction: Modern hearing aids are built from diverse materials, from nano-coated plastics, to metal to silicon. If you are particularly accident prone, materials that are on the more durable side would be a better choice for longevity.
- Batteries: While most hearing aids use internal rechargeable batteries, the type of battery can influence overall longevity.
- Maintenance: Not surprisingly, conscientious care directly correlates with extended lifespan. Regular cleaning and maintenance will significantly prolong functional longevity.
While the approximated lifespan is based on typical usage, failing to wear or maintain your hearing aids may effect their efficiency. Professional check-ups and cleaning sessions are crucial to provide proper fit and functionality, especially considering potential wax build-up.
When to anticipate replacement
You may find that it’s time for a replacement when, over time, you start to detect a decrease in the performance of your hearing aid. Here are a few situations where you might need to upgrade sooner:
- Technological advancements: You might consider an upgrade to a more current and advanced model that has recently been launched.
- Lifestyle shifts: You might decide it’s time for an upgrade when you have a change of lifestyle and recognize that you need some new features.
- Hearing changes: Substantial alterations in hearing levels require recalibration for optimum results, prompting consideration of new hearing aids.
Anticipating the precise timespan for hearing aid replacement proves to be a challenge, given the multitude of variables. But 2 to 5 years is typically a reliable guideline.
Think it may be time for an upgrade? Give us a call today to make an appointment.