Hearing aids are an incredible tool for millions of people with hearing loss. In fact, according to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, nearly “28.8 million U.S. adults could benefit from using hearing aids.”
While hearing aids can help you hear better in any environment, like all technology, there comes a time when you need to upgrade to a newer model to get the best experience. Let’s take a closer look at a few signs that it’s time to upgrade your hearing aids.
You’ve Noticed a Change in Your Hearing 
Perhaps the most obvious reason to get new hearing aids is that they don’t help you hear as well as they used to. Much like needing a prescription change for your eyeglasses, your hearing needs can change over time as well.
It’s important to have regular visits with your audiologist so that you can talk about any changes or new struggles that have come up, and they can help you find a new pair of hearing aids with settings and features that make it easier to follow conversations at the family dinner table or catch up with an old friend at Orange Spot Coffee.
Your Overall Health Has Changed
Certain health issues may require a new pair of hearing aids. For example, people with arthritis may struggle with adjusting or changing batteries on very small hearing aids. They may do better if they switch to a slightly larger behind-the-ear model or use a rechargeable hearing aid that doesn’t require regular battery changes.
You Have a New Hobby
While this may seem odd, certain lifestyle changes, like getting a new hobby, may necessitate a new pair of hearing aids. For example, if you get really into hiking or other outdoor sports, you might need a model that has a program that can better block out wind noise and withstand tougher conditions.
Your Current Hearing Aids are More Than Five Years Old
The average pair of hearing aids lasts three to five years before it starts to experience a toll from the wear and tear of everyday use. Taking steps to clean and care for your device properly will go a long way towards extending its lifespan; however, hearing aids older than five years likely aren’t providing you with the best quality hearing and should be upgraded.
Not only will newer hearing aids work better, but they have more advanced technology and can do things like better minimize background noise and be easily programmed via a smartphone app.
To learn more or to speak with a specialist about upgrading your hearing aids, call Charleston ENT & Allergy today.