How Soon do Hearing Aids Need to be Upgraded?

Audiologist fits a hearing aid on mature man ear while visit a hearing clinic.

It’s difficult to be apart from your hearing aid once you get accustomed to using one. Your hearing aids are, after all, your link to the world around you. But it will occasionally need to be updated or replaced just like all technology.

A hearing aid’s typical lifespan

A hearing aid will typically last 3 to 7 years. You will need to have routine hearing assessments to be certain your current hearing aid is still the best option for your hearing requirements, and the 3 to 7 year lifespan isn’t etched in stone. Technology is constantly advancing and some hearing aids need replacing sooner than others so it’s good to be open to other options should your hearing change.

Your hearing aid longevity might be affected by these factors

So, that’s just the average life of a hearing aid. So hearing may last a lot longer for some individuals. Here are a few considerations that will determine how long your hearing aid should last:

  • How often your hearing aids are used: The more often you use your hearing aids, the sooner they will need to be replaced. That said, modern hearing aids are built to last. Actually, it might be more correct to say that the more times you turn the device on and off, the sooner it will wear out.
  • Build quality: It can be pricey to invest in hearing aids. But, you usually get what you pay for, like with most things in life. The better the construction quality, the longer your hearing aid should last.
  • Changes to your hearing: Most grownups go for those really small hearing aids that conceal easily. Those devices have the right amount of power you require and are very precisely calibrated. If your hearing loss gets worse, you may need to upgrade to a more powerful model.
  • Functionality: Hearing aids have been keeping up with continuously advancing technology. If you want your hearing aids to connect with your smartphone, television, or other devices, or to just have the sharpest sound, you might want to upgrade.
  • Proper care & maintenance: Like most technology, it will last longer the better care you take of it. So, cleaning your hearing aid and doing regular maintenance according to the manufacturer’s advice is something you should always do.

Can you make your hearing aids last longer?

It’s significant to note that hearing aids are a very individual thing. Usually, they will be specifically molded to the shape of your ears and tuned to your specific needs. They are also a significant investment. So getting the most you can out of your hearing aids is the common goal.

And this is a very achievable goal. The most practical thing you can do if you want your hearing aid to last is take good care of it. Try not to drop them or get them wet. And make sure you do all the required maintenance and cleaning.

Your hearing aid will usually work well for at least five years. Whether you’re able to get more than that is, mostly, up to chance. But ultimately, you will have to make a decision. Inevitably, more modern hearing aids offer features you will probably want. So, contact us to schedule an appointment for a hearing test right away. We’ll help you figure out which hearing aid is right for you.

The site information is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. To receive personalized advice or treatment, schedule an appointment.