What is the Expected Lifespan of a Contemporary Hearing Aid?

With proper care, hearing aids can last for several years, but their effectiveness depends on whether they’re programmed to your present level of hearing loss. Getting routine hearing evaluations is key to making certain your hearing aids are programmed and fit properly. Here are some tips to help you get the most from your hearing aids.

Is there a lifespan for hearing aids?

Hearing aids definitely have a lifespan just like most things. Hearing aids will have a time frame of optimal efficiency much like any device will. Pretty much all electronic devices will either quit working at an optimal level or become antiquated and replaced with newer more sophisticated technology eventually. 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 advances, you may want to upgrade sooner. Here are a number of the most prominent factors influencing the lifespan of your hearing aids:

• Construction: Contemporary hearing aids are built from various materials, from nano-coated plastics, to metal to silicon. While designed for durability, the type of materials could impact longevity, particularly if you are prone to accidental drops.
• Batteries: While the majority of hearing aids use internal rechargeable batteries, the type of battery can influence all-around longevity.
• Maintenance: Not surprisingly, diligent care directly correlates with prolonged lifespan. Regular cleaning and maintenance will significantly prolong functional longevity.
• Type: Inside-the-ear and behind the ear are the two primary models of hearing aids. Inside-the-ear models, exposed to the ear canal’s moisture and debris, generally last about five years, while behind-the-ear models last for around 6 to 7 years as a result of their increased protection against moisture and dirt.

While the approximated lifespan is based on ordinary usage, failing to use or maintain your hearing aids might impact their effectiveness. Considering possible earwax build-up, regular cleanings and check-ups are critical to optimal functionality and fit.

Expecting when to replace your hearing aids

As time passes, you might detect a decline in hearing aid performance, signaling the need for replacement. However, certain circumstances might justify an earlier upgrade:

• Hearing changes: Substantial alterations in hearing levels necessitate reprogramming for optimum results, prompting consideration of new hearing aids.
• Lifestyle shifts: Changing lifestyles might necessitate features such as waterproofing or enhanced durability, compelling an upgrade to better suit your needs.
• Technological advancements: You might consider an upgrade to a more current and state-of-the-art model that has recently been launched.

Anticipating the precise time period for hearing aid replacement proves a challenge, given the wide range of variables. Still, a general guideline of 2 to 5 years offers a dependable reference point.

Think it might be time for an upgrade? Make an appointment for a consultation with us right away.