While it could be true that older hearing aids are better than nothing, it’s likely that what little advantage you get from them may be costly. Within the last few years, hearing aid technology has made substantial developments. It’s changed from analog to digital, for one thing, and there are features now that weren’t even on the drawing board a decade ago.
If you’re considering upgrading your hearing aids, there are a number of things you’ll have to do in order to choose the best ones for your needs. First, you’ll need to have a hearing test to determine if your level of hearing loss has changed. Once you know how much hearing loss you’re dealing with, you can start to narrow down your choices. Here are a few reasons why it’s probably time to upgrade.
Hearing aid reliability
Older or even low-quality hearing aids have real problems, like that annoying buzz you hear every now and then. What about when you get near a phone and your hearing aids begin to feedback? Frequently, they will squeal with feedback for no apparent reason. Newer models compensate for common issues so that you hear feedback less frequently.
Volume isn’t enough
Volume regulation was about the only function of hearing aids ten years ago. Today, hearing aids are equipped with much more advanced technology.
- Background noise reduction: Feedback nullification, noise filters, and directional microphones are some of the many methods utilized by modern hearing aids. Directional microphones center on the sound coming from the front of the user, while noise filters decrease unwanted sounds from all directions. Feedback cancellation helps to prevent the whistling sound that can occur when hearing aids are not properly fitted.
- Voice focus: Some hearing aids also offer voice focus, which helps the wearer to focus on the voices they want to hear. This is accomplished by utilizing directional microphones to detect the sound of the desired voice and then amplify it. Voice focus can be useful in noisy environments or when the user is attempting to hear somebody who is talking softly.
- Improved sound quality: Older hearing aid models had much lower quality of sound than modern-day models. This is the result of advances in digital signal processing, which allows hearing aids to more accurately reproduce sound. Modern hearing aids also frequently offer custom programs that are set for specific settings.
- Bluetooth capability: This feature allows hearing aids to connect to other devices, like smartphones, TVs, and other smart devices. This can be useful for streaming music or making phone calls.
You have to switch out the batteries – a lot
When we’re thinking about a hearing aid upgrade, price is always a factor. You may think that updating your hearing aid will be too expensive, but old outdated hearing aids can be expensive as well. The batteries in analog devices go dead and need to be replaced a lot. If you’re replacing the battery on a daily basis, or even more often than that, the cost adds up.
Out-of-date hearing aids can potentially spend more time at the shop, also. If you view your hearing aid as a 1992 Buick, you get the idea. The costs of the constant repairs can get quickly out of hand.
You’re not capable of hearing at work
Research has shown that hearing loss can lead to a reduced income. Naturally, your career would benefit from wearing better hearing aids. You’ll have an easier time hearing what clients, coworkers, and your boss are saying to you. You will follow directions without questioning if you got it right and have important discussions without being concerned about whether your hearing aids will hold up or not.
Clearly, stronger communication means an enhanced quality of life, also. You’ll be capable of communicating with people again. Get right back into being socially engaged.
You’re looking for something more subtle
When you look in the mirror at your old hearing aid, what comes to mind? Clunky? Noticeable? OMG? Some of the most compelling benefits that come with replacing old hearing aids are style and flexibility. Quite a few styles, shapes, and sizes are available in modern hearing aids. You could either get one in your favorite color and make a fashion statement or get one discrete enough that it will go undetected by others.
It’s time to consider upgrading your hearing aids if you’re not happy with the results you’re getting from your old pair. The things that modern technology has allowed hearing aids to do was never possible before. Give us a call today to discuss your options.