If you’re still using your older hearing aids, they might be better than no hearing aids, but they also could be costing you in some ways. Hearing aid technology has advanced a great deal in the past few years! It’s gone to digital from analog, for one thing, and there are features currently that weren’t even on the drawing board a decade ago.
When you decide it’s time to update, choosing the right one will take some preparation. First, you’ll have to get a hearing test to determine if your level of hearing loss has changed. Once you are aware of how much hearing loss you have, you can begin to get a clearer look at your options. Here are a few reasons why it’s probably time to upgrade.
Dependability of hearing aids
Older or even low-quality hearing aids have real problems, such as that irritating buzz you hear every once in a while. And, what about feedback whenever you get close to a phone? At times, they will squeal with feedback for no evident reason. Newer designs compensate for common issues so that you hear feedback less frequently.
Volume isn’t enough
Ten years ago hearing aids chiefly focused on fixing the volume. Hearing aids have a lot more technology and functionality nowadays.
- Improved sound quality: Today’s hearing aids offer much higher sound quality than older models. This is the result of advances in digital signal processing, which allows hearing aids to more accurately duplicate sound. Additionally, many hearing aids now provide features such as multiple programs that can be tailored to different listening situations.
- Background noise reduction: Feedback nullification, noise filters, and directional microphones are some of the many methods utilized by contemporary hearing aids. Directional microphones center on the sound coming from the front of the user, while noise filters reduce unwanted sounds from all directions. When your hearing aid is not correctly fitted, a whistling sound can occur which will be prevented by feedback nullification.
- Voice focus: Some hearing aids also provide voice focus, which helps the user to focus on the voices they choose to hear. The sound of the desired voice is picked up and boosted by directionally set microphones. Voice focus can be useful in noisy environments or when the wearer is attempting to hear someone who is speaking softly.
- Bluetooth capability: This feature allows hearing aids to sync to other devices, like smartphones, TVs, and other smart devices. This can be useful for streaming music or making phone calls.
Frequent battery replacing
Price is always a factor with regard to upgrading your hearing aids. The new technology isn’t inexpensive, but neither is wearing old, out-of-date hearing aids. Analog devices need new batteries frequently. The costs will add up, particularly if you have to replace batteries every day or more.
Old hearing aids malfunction and need to go to the shop for repair more frequently. If you think of your hearing aid as a 1992 Buick, you get the concept. It’s in for repair more than it’s in your ear and the repairs are not cheap.
You’re not capable of hearing at work
Studies show that hearing loss can lead to a reduced income. Doesn’t it seem sensible then, that better hearing aids would be a career advantage? You’ll have an easier time hearing what customers, coworkers, and your boss are saying to you. You won’t have to worry about whether you’ll miss critical information or instructions.
Clearly, better communication means an enhanced quality of life, too. You’ll be capable of communicating with people again. Get right back into being socially engaged.
You want a smaller hearing aid
When you look in the mirror at your outdated hearing aid, what words come to mind? Clunky? Obvious? OMG? Some of the most compelling benefits that come with updating old hearing aids are style and flexibility. A number of shapes, styles, and sizes are available in contemporary hearing aids. You could either get one in your favorite color and make a fashion statement or get one small enough that it will go unseen by others.
If you’re thinking about getting new hearing aids, or if you already have them but you’re not happy with the results, consider upgrading to a newer model. Technology has come a long way in the last few years, and there are now hearing aids available that can do things that were never possible before. Contact us today to discuss your options.
