Numerous studies demonstrate a significant connection between hearing loss and cognitive decline. The risk of developing cognitive issues in association with hearing loss decrease with the use of hearing aids.
Greater hearing clarity helps to limit the effects of hearing loss on your brain, but a poor performing or improperly programmed hearing device will not provide these advantages.
Consequently, it is sometimes necessary to upgrade your hearing aid. Knowing when it is time to upgrade can be a challenge for many of our hearing aid wearers in Michigan and Ohio who need help deciding the right time to replace their existing devices.
Here are some general guidelines to help with your decision.
What Is the Typical Life Cycle of a Hearing Aid?
Style and various other factors determine the length of time hearing aids perform well, generally between three and six years.
In–the-ear (ITE) style instruments will last between four and five years, while behind-the-ear (BTE) style devices have a service life of about five to six years.
Poor handling and maintenance, exposure to moisture and high temperatures, and the device’s quality can decrease its life cycle. In contrast, better care of the device will increase its performance life.
When Is Upgrade Your Hearing Aids the Best Choice?
Upgrading your hearing aid due to inadequate performance is an apparent reason to make the switch, but other reasons can help your decision to replace your existing device. You should consider upgrading to a new device in the circumstances like:
- An extensive repair history, regardless of the device’s age, is a good indicator that it is time for an upgrade. A device that spends a lot of time in the shop becomes a major financial drain, especially after the warranty expires.
- To enjoy the benefits of new technology. Most people replace their cell phones every three to five years to get the best technology. The technology in hearing aids changes at about the same rate, so to take advantage of better performance and a host of new features, you will want to upgrade them as well.
- Upgrading to new technology may be necessary to accommodate a change in hearing. If you begin to notice more difficulty understanding speech, TV, or hearing in noise, your hearing may have changed. Keep in mind that age-related hearing loss does change over time. Changes in hearing are expected, and hearing acuity can diminish over time. Upgrading to more sophisticated technology can help compensate for these changes.
- An expired warranty. Repair and replacement costs are covered while the device is under warranty, but once the warranty expires, those costs become an added out-of-pocket expense. A new device comes with a new warranty to help cover these costs.
- To accommodate changes to your occupation or lifestyle. Different styles and technology levels are a better fit for other professions and more or less active lifestyles. Upgrading to accommodate these changes increases the effectiveness of your device.
If It Is Time to Upgrade Your Hearing Aids, Choose Beltone
Cognitive decline produces devastating effects as you continue to age, but its risks decrease with the use of hearing aids that perform as designed and with the proper programming to meet your needs.
Ensuring that your hearing aids continue to provide their broad range of advantages may include upgrading to a new device.
At Beltone, we have the experience and expertise to help you decide if hearing aids meet your needs and select the style and level of technology able to provide the best hearing solution for you.
If you or a loved one is ready to upgrade your device or want advice on your options, contact our team in the Michigan or Ohio location nearest you to find out how we can help support you in your next steps to better hearing.
