While it might be true that older hearing aids are better than nothing, chances are what little benefit you get from them may be costly. Within the past few years, hearing aid technology has made significant advancements. It’s gone from analog to digital, for one thing, and there are features today that weren’t even in the design phase 10 years ago.
If you’re considering upgrading your hearing aids, there are a few things you’ll need to do to pick the right ones for your needs. A hearing test to establish how your hearing has changed will be needed first. Your options will begin to be narrowed down when we establish your current degree of hearing loss. Here are some reasons why it’s most likely time for an upgrade.
Hearing aid reliability
Older or even low-quality hearing aids have significant issues, like that irritating buzz you hear every once in a while. And, what about feedback anytime you get close to a phone? At times, they will squeal with feedback for no evident reason. Your feedback will be considerably reduced with newer models which have functions that compensate for common issues.
Volume isn’t enough
Volume regulation was about the only function of hearing aids ten years ago. Nowadays, hearing aids are loaded with much better technology.
- Background noise reduction: Feedback cancellation, noise filters, and directional microphones are some of the many methods utilized by modern hearing aids. Directional microphones focus on the sound coming from the front of the user, while noise filters decrease undesirable noises from all directions. When your hearing aid is not correctly fitted, a whistling sound can happen which will be prevented by feedback nullification.
- Bluetooth capability: This feature lets hearing aids connect to other devices, including smartphones, TVs, and other smart devices. Making phone calls or listening to music becomes easy with this.
- Improved sound quality: Older hearing aid models had far lower quality of sound than modern-day models. Signal processing has become digital, which reproduces and amplifies sound in a more precise way. Modern hearing aids also often offer custom programs that are set for specific situations.
- Voice focus: With some newer models the wearer can use a voice focusing function that lets them focus on specific voices they want to hear. The sound of the desired voice is picked up and boosted by directionally arranged microphones. When someone is talking quietly or in a noisy setting, voice focus can be very helpful.
You have to switch out the batteries – frequently
Cost is always a factor when it comes to a hearing aid upgrade. You may think that upgrading your hearing aid will be too costly, but old antiquated hearing aids can be expensive too. The batteries in analog devices die and need to be replaced a lot. The costs will add up, especially if you need to switch out batteries every day or more.
Out-dated hearing aids malfunction and need to go to the shop for repair more frequently. If you view your hearing aid as a 1992 Buick, you get the idea. The costs of the continual repairs can get quickly out of hand.
You can’t hear your coworkers
Research demonstrates that individuals with neglected hearing loss will have a lower income. Doesn’t it make sense then, that better hearing aids would be a career asset? You will hear your boss and customers clearer. You will follow instructions without wondering if you got it right and have essential discussions without being concerned about whether your hearing aids will hold up or not.
And with better communication, you will have a better quality of life. You’ll be capable of communicating with people again. Jump in and connect with the people around you.
You’re looking for something more subtle
When you look in the mirror at your old hearing aid, what words come to mind? Clunky? Obvious? OMG? Some of the most considerable advantages that come with replacing old hearing aids are flexibility and style. Today’s hearing aids come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. You can have one tucked into your ear so nobody will ever notice it, or you can make a fashion statement with a visible hearing aid in a color you love.
It’s time to consider upgrading your hearing aids if you’re not happy with the results you’re getting from your old set. Technology has advanced significantly in the past several years, and there are now hearing aids available that can do things that were never possible in the past. Contact us today to talk about your options.