With proper care, hearing aids can last for several years, but their performance depends on whether they’re programmed to your current level of hearing loss. Similar to prescription glasses, hearing aids are personalized to support your specific auditory needs, requiring regular reassessment. Assuming correct programming and fitting, here’s a guide for their longevity.
Do hearing aids have a lifespan?
Just like most products, hearing aids have a lifespan. Hearing aids will have a period of optimum efficiency much like any device will. Even sophisticated electronics, such as your state-of-the-art TV, will eventually warrant an upgrade. So it likely won’t be surprising that hearing aids also have a lifespan.
Two to five years is a typical lifespan for modern hearing aids but as technology advances, you might want to upgrade sooner. Here are a few of the most prominent factors influencing the lifespan of your hearing aids:
- Type: Hearing aids come in two main forms: inside-the-ear and behind-the-ear. Behind-the -ear models will normally last 6 to 7 years due to the increased protection from moisture compared to inside-the-ear models which will generally last from 3 to 5 years.
- Maintenance: Obviously, you will get a longer lifespan from your hearing aid with diligent care. Functional longevity is considerably prolonged by regular upkeep 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 are prone to accidental drops.
- Batteries: While most hearing aids utilize internal rechargeable batteries, the type of battery can impact overall longevity.
Failure to routinely wear and maintain your hearing aids can have an impact on lifespan as estimated longevity is based on normal usage. Professional check-ups and cleaning sessions are essential to provide proper fit and functionality, especially considering possible wax build-up.
When to expect replacement
As time passes, you might detect a decrease in hearing aid performance, signaling the need for replacement. However, certain circumstances might justify an earlier upgrade:
- Technological advancements: You may consider an upgrade to a more current and state-of-the-art model that has recently been released.
- Hearing changes: As hearing loss advances, reprogramming becomes more and more important and it might become less costly and time consuming to simply buy a new set.
- Lifestyle shifts: You might decide it’s time for an upgrade when you have a change of lifestyle and realize you require some new features.
When you consider the large number of variables, it can be relatively difficult to exactly predict when an upgrade will be needed. But 2 to 5 years is generally a reliable guideline.
Wondering if you could use a hearing aid upgrade? Make an appointment for a consultation with us right away.