How long can I expect my hearing aids to last?
Hearing aids can be expensive, so when researching a new pair to purchase, it is important to consider how long they will last. Modern hearing aids typically have a lifespan anywhere from 5-10 years, but even if two different people buy the same hearing aid, they can last very different lengths of time.
Factors Impacting a Hearing Aid’s Longevity
Many factors can impact the longevity of hearing aids.
Materials Used in Hearing Aids
While they are made to be durable, hearing aids are made of plastic, metal, silicon, polymers, and other materials that can degrade over time. Most newer hearing aids have a protective nanocoating to help resist water, dust, and moisture. However, it would be best if you still were gentle with them to protect them from shock.
Cleaning Your Hearing Aids
You wouldn’t skip cleaning your face, hair, or body for weeks or months, right? And that is precisely why it is essential to regularly clean your hearing aids because they are exposed to moisture, dust, skin oils, sweat, and extreme temperatures. Also, earwax can stick to them daily. If you only have your hearing aids cleaning when you take them to your hearing care specialist, they could wear down faster from lack of cleaning. It would be best if you gently cleaning your hearing aids daily.
Style of Hearing Aids
It is well-known in the hearing aid industry that behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids can have a longer lifespan than in-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids. The reason is that ITE hearing aids have the electronic components sitting inside the ear, which is a damp environment. Newer ITE hearing aids have a nanocoating on the internal and external parts that can make them more durable.
Technological Advancements
Once hearing aids get older (usually between 5-10 years), hearing aid manufacturers may no longer support specific hearing aid models, which means that it may be difficult to get replacement parts. The software used to program hearing aids also becomes outdated over time and eventually will no longer function properly. Hearing aid technology advances quickly, and even technology that is 5 or 6 years old is now considered basic. While many people are content with their hearing aids, many people will benefit from the technology available in newer hearing aids even if they are outdated.
Additional Factors Impacting Hearing Aid Longevity
The places where you wear your hearing aids
How you store your hearing aids
The physiology of your body
How often you maintain your hearing aids
If your hearing aids are outdated and you are in the market for a new pair, we are ready to help you find the perfect fit for your needs! Contact Sound Hearing Care to schedule an appointment today! We have four convenient locations in Simpsonville, Greer, Travelers Rest, and Greenville.
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