While it may be true that older hearing aids are better than no hearing aids, it’s likely that what small advantage you get from them comes at a cost. Hearing aid technology has advanced a great deal in the last few years! It’s changed to digital from analog, for one thing, and there are features currently that weren’t even on the drawing board 10 years ago.
If you’re thinking about upgrading your hearing aids, there are a number of things you’ll have to do to pick the right ones for your needs. A hearing exam to identify how your hearing has changed will be required first. Once you know how much hearing loss you’re dealing with, you can begin to narrow down your choices. It’s most likely time for an upgrade for the following reasons.
Hearing aid dependability
Every now and then you’ll get an aggravating buzz or other issues with older or low-quality hearing aids. 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 greatly decreased with newer models which have functions that compensate for common problems.
Volume isn’t enough
Volume regulation was about the only function of hearing aids a decade ago. Hearing aids have a lot more technology and functionality nowadays.
- Background noise reduction: Feedback cancellation, noise filters, and directional microphones are some of the many techniques utilized by contemporary hearing aids. Directional microphones center on the sound coming from the front of the wearer, while noise filters minimize unwanted noises from all directions. When your hearing aid isn’t properly fitted, a whistling sound can occur which will be prevented by feedback cancellation.
- Bluetooth capability: Tvs, cellphones, and other equipped devices can now be synced to your hearing aid. This can be useful for streaming music or making phone calls.
- Improved sound quality: Today’s hearing aids provide much better sound quality than older models. This is because of advances in digital signal processing, which allows hearing aids to more precisely reproduce sound. Modern hearing aids also frequently offer custom programs that are preset for specific settings.
- Voice focus: Some hearing aids also provide voice focus, which helps the wearer to focus on the voices they choose to hear. The sound of the desired voice is picked up and amplified by directionally set microphones. When someone is speaking quietly or in a loud setting, voice focus can be quite helpful.
Frequent battery replacement
Cost is always a consideration in terms of upgrading your hearing aids. You might think that upgrading your hearing aid will cost too much, but old outdated hearing aids can be costly too. The batteries in analog devices go dead and need replacement a lot. The costs will add up, especially if you have to switch out batteries daily or more.
Out-of-date hearing aids can oftentimes spend more time getting repaired, also. Think of what a 1990 Chevy would be like and apply that concept to hearing aids. It’s in the shop more than it’s in your ear and the repairs are not inexpensive.
You can’t hear your coworkers
Research demonstrates that individuals with neglected hearing loss will earn less. Doesn’t it seem sensible then, that better hearing aids would be a career asset? You’ll have a better time hearing what customers, coworkers, and your boss are saying to you. You will follow directions without questioning if you got it right and have important conversations without worrying about whether your hearing aids will hold up or not.
Clearly, stronger communication means a better quality of life, as well. You’ll be able to communicate with people again. Jump in and engage with the people around you.
You want a smaller hearing aid
When you look in the mirror at your old hearing aid, what words come to mind? Clunky? Obvious? OMG? Style and flexibility are some of the most significant reasons to replace those outdated hearing aids. A number of styles, shapes, 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 discrete enough that it will go undetected by others.
If you’re considering getting new hearing aids, or if you already have them but you’re not happy with the results, think about upgrading to a newer model. Technology has come a long way in the last several years, and there are now hearing aids available that can do things that were never possible before. Get in touch with us for a consultation.