If you’re still wearing your older hearing aids, they might be better than no hearing aids, but they also may be costing you in some ways. Within the last few years, hearing aid technology has made considerable advancements. A decade ago many of the features of current hearing aids weren’t even in development, going digital for instance.
If you’re considering upgrading your hearing aids, there are a few things you’ll need to do to select the right ones for your needs. A hearing test to determine how your hearing has changed will be required first. Once you are aware of how much hearing loss you’re dealing with, you can start to get a clearer look at your choices. Here are a few reasons why it’s probably time for an upgrade.
Hearing aid reliability
Older or even low-quality hearing aids have significant issues, such as that annoying buzz you hear every now and then. And, what about feedback whenever you get close to a phone? Sometimes, there’s a shrill feedback noise that seems to come out of nowhere, too. Newer models compensate for common issues so that you hear feedback less often.
Volume isn’t enough
A decade ago hearing aids chiefly focused on fixing the volume. Today, hearing aids are equipped with much better technology.
- Voice focus: With some newer models the user can use a voice focusing feature that allows them to focus on specific voices they want to hear. This is done by utilizing directional microphones to pick up the sound of the desired voice and then boost it. When someone is speaking quietly or in a loud setting, voice focus can be very helpful.
- Background noise reduction: Modern hearing aids use numerous techniques to reduce background noise, including directional microphones, noise filters, and feedback nullification. Noise filters minimize undesired noise while directional microphones are designed to detect sound directly in front of you. Feedback cancellation helps to prevent the whistling sound that can occur when hearing aids aren’t fitted properly.
- Bluetooth capability: This feature allows hearing aids to sync to other devices, such as smartphones, TVs, and other smart devices. This can be useful for streaming music or making phone calls.
- Improved sound quality: Older hearing aid models had much lower quality of sound than modern-day models. This is because of advances in digital signal processing, which allows hearing aids to more precisely duplicate sound. Additionally, many hearing aids now provide features including numerous programs that can be tailored to different listening situations.
You have to change the batteries – a lot
Cost is always a factor in terms of upgrading your hearing aids. You might think that updating your hearing aid will be too costly, but old antiquated hearing aids can be expensive also. Analog devices need new batteries frequently. The costs will add up, particularly if you need to replace batteries daily or more.
Old hearing aids can potentially spend more time at the shop, also. Consider 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 aren’t inexpensive.
You’re not capable of hearing at work
Studies show that hearing loss can mean a reduced paycheck. Doesn’t it make sense 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 will follow directions without wondering if you got it right and have important conversations without worrying about whether your hearing aids will hold up or not.
Of course, stronger communication means a better quality of life, also. You’ll be capable of communicating with people again. Dive in and connect with the people around you.
You want something more discreet
What do you think about when you look in the mirror and see that outdated hearing aid? Clunky? Obvious? OMG? Flexibility and style are some of the most significant reasons to replace those old hearing aids. A number of styles, shapes, and sizes are available in contemporary hearing aids. You can have one tucked into your ear so nobody will ever see 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 unhappy with the results you’re getting from your old pair. The things that contemporary technology has allowed hearing aids to do wasn’t even possible before. Contact us for a consultation.