It’s difficult to be separated from your hearing aid once you get used to having one. Let’s face it, if you want to stay connected to the world, your hearing aids are essential. But just like any technology you use on a daily basis, it will periodically need to be replaced or updated.
The Typical Hearing Aid Lifespan
So how long can you expect the typical hearing aid to last? 3 to 5 years will be the normal lifespan of a typical hearing aid. But that’s not a strict rule, and you need to have your hearing tested periodically to make sure your hearing aid is still the best option for you. Assuming your hearing doesn’t change, some models wear out more quickly than others and technology is constantly changing.
Variables That Might Influence Your Hearing Aid Longevity
But that’s just the average life of a hearing aid. Which means that there are a lot of people who might have their hearing aids last much longer. Here are a few factors that will determine how long your hearing aids will last:
- Functionality: Hearing aids have been keeping up with constantly advancing technology. If you want your hearing aids to sync up with your television, smartphone, or other devices, or to just have the clearest sound, you might want to upgrade.
- Changes to your hearing: If you’re an adult and you wear a hearing aid, you’ve likely gone with one of those very tiny, easy to hide devices. Those devices are usually very precisely calibrated and they have precisely the amount of power you need. You might need to switch to a more powerful hearing aid if your hearing gets worse.
- Complexity of the hearing aid: The more complex your hearing aid is, the more variables you have to contend with (meaning there’s more that can go wrong). Don’t get me wrong sometimes you need that additional complexity, and usually, it ends up being worth it. But added complex technology does introduce a breakability element. Modern hearing aids have become quite clever about introducing more functionality via software instead of hardware, which does help.
- How frequently you wear your hearing aids: To a certain extent, the more frequently you wear your hearing aid, the sooner you’ll need a replacement. But that’s not always true, modern hearing aids are made to be used for long durations. It’s really more valid to say that if you turn the power on and off frequently, you will need to replace your hearing aid sooner.
- Frequent care and upkeep: A hearing aid is like most other pieces of technology in many ways: the better you take care of it, the longer it will last. As per the manufacturer’s recommendations, you should always do routine upkeep and also clean your hearing aids.
- Build quality: It’s costly to buy hearing aids. But, as with most things in life, you normally get what you pay for. The better the build quality, the longer your hearing aid should last.
Making Your Hearing Aids Last Longer
We have to acknowledge that hearing aids are pretty personal things. In many instances, they are programmed specifically for your ears and may have custom molds. They are also a significant investment. So it’s a common goal to get the most out of your hearing aid.
And it’s an attainable one. Really, the best thing you can do to make certain your hearing aids last as long as possible is to take care of them. Try not to drop them or get them wet. And all the needed upkeep and cleaning are things you should never ignore.
You’ll normally be able to get around five years out of a hearing aid. It’s generally up to chance whether you can make them last longer than this. But there comes a time when you have to make a choice. Inevitably, newer hearing aids provide features you will most likely want. So, to find out what hearing aid is the best one for you, schedule a hearing exam today.