When should I update my hearing aids?
Hearing aids today have better performance and durability than ever before. To get the most from your hearing devices, make sure they are functioning well and programmed for your hearing loss. If your hearing aids aren’t serving you well, it may be time for an update. Here are some factors to consider when deciding whether to update your hearing aids.
Take Advantage of New Technology
One huge reason to update your hearing aids is to access new and better technology for hearing. With the advent of smartphones and digital home systems, many hearing aids offer direct sound streaming from phone calls, media players, even digital doorbells for easier, focused listening. Staying up with new streaming audio technology can especially benefit hearing aid users at work or at school. Comprehending speech is a key part of performing well. Those who value staying in touch with friends and family via phone or video can also get a big advantage.
Hearing aid technology is constantly advancing. Improved sound balancing, rechargeable batteries, and advances in comfort and design can all make your hearing aids work better for you. Talk to your hearing specialist to see if upgrading your hearing aids makes sense for your lifestyle.
Make Sure Your Hearing Aids Are Working Well
The first step in determining whether it is time for new hearing aids is to make sure your current hearing aids are working properly. If they are not and repair isn’t an option, it is certainly time to update your hearing devices. Luckily, many common problems with hearing aids can be easily repaired and don’t require replacing the entire device.
Moisture, dirt, debris, and wax buildup can all negatively affect your hearing aid?s performance. Be observant of how your ear canal impacts your device. If your ears are prone to wax and sweat, you will probably need to have your devices professionally cleaned regularly to keep them functioning well.
Other problems such as corrosion around the battery compartment, holes, and tears in the hearing tubes can cause issues with your hearing aid?s functioning but can usually be fixed with a basic repair. Exposure to water, excess heat, or other extreme conditions may cause mechanical failures that cannot be repaired. When you detect malfunctioning in your hearing aids your first step is to bring them in for cleaning and repair. While we can fix most normal hearing aid issues, sometimes the devices will need an update, with a new pair.
Make Sure the Programming is Correct on Your Hearing Aids
If there aren’t any functional problems with your hearing aids, there still may be issues with how well your hearing aids assist you. When you first received your hearing aids, they were programmed specifically to suit your hearing loss. As you adjust to your hearing aids, your hearing specialist may fine-tune them. The programming on your devices needs to optimize the way you hear.
As time passes, your hearing needs may change. This is why it is important to consistently have your hearing checked. If you notice a change to the way you hear, it is time to make sure your hearing aids are programmed to best suit you. Your hearing test is the map for where challenges exist in your hearing range. It shows your hearing specialist how your hearing aids should be programmed.
Your hearing can still change even though your hearing aids help prevent some further hearing issues. When you wait too long between hearing tests, you may find your hearing aids are inadequately programmed for your needs.
Hearing Group
Is it time for an update to your hearing aids? Whether you need your hearing devices cleaned, repaired, or replaced, Hearing Group has got you covered. In addition to keeping your hearing aids in top performance condition, we also carry a full line of top-brand hearing products for when it is time to upgrade your hearing aids. Hearing Group makes it easy to get the most from your hearing aids with comprehensive testing and focused patient care. With nine locations throughout Kansas and Oklahoma, finding a Hearing Group near you is easy and convenient, so contact us today to set up your next visit!