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 past few years, hearing aid technology has made substantial developments. It’s gone from analog to digital, for one thing, and there are features currently that weren’t even in the design phase 10 years ago.
When you decide it’s time to upgrade, choosing the correct one will take a little preparation. First, you’ll need to have a hearing test to identify if your level of hearing loss has changed. Your options will start to be narrowed down after we determine your present level of hearing loss. 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? Frequently, they will squeal with feedback for no apparent reason. Your feedback will be significantly reduced with newer models which have functions that compensate for common issues.
Volume isn’t enough
Volume regulation was about the only function of hearing aids a decade ago. Nowadays, hearing aids are equipped with much more advanced technology.
- Voice focus: With some newer models the wearer can use a voice focusing feature that lets them focus on particular voices they want to hear. The sound of the desired voice is detected and boosted by directionally set microphones. When somebody is speaking quietly or in a loud setting, voice focus can be very helpful.
- Bluetooth capability: Tvs, cellphones, and other equipped devices can now be synced to your hearing aid. This can be helpful for streaming music or making phone calls.
- Background noise reduction: Modern hearing aids use a number of techniques to minimize background noise, including directional microphones, noise filters, and feedback cancellation. Noise filters minimize undesired sound while directional microphones are made to focus on sound right in front of you. Feedback cancellation helps to counter the whistling sound that can occur when hearing aids aren’t fitted properly.
- Improved sound quality: Older hearing aid models had far lower quality of sound than modern-day models. This is the result of advances in digital signal processing, which allows hearing aids to more precisely reproduce sound. Additionally, many hearing aids now offer features such as multiple programs that can be customized to different listening environments.
Frequent battery replacement
When we’re thinking about upgrading your hearing aid, cost is always a factor. The new technology isn’t cheap, but neither is wearing old, out-of-date hearing aids. Analog devices need new batteries frequently. The costs will add up, especially if you have to replace batteries every day or more.
Old hearing aids can potentially spend more time at the shop, also. If you view your hearing aid as a 1992 Buick, you get the idea. It’s in for repair more than it’s in your ear and the repairs are not inexpensive.
You’re not capable of hearing at work
Studies show that hearing loss can mean a reduced paycheck. Doesn’t it seem sensible then, that better hearing aids would be a career asset? You’ll have an easier time hearing what clients, coworkers, and your boss are saying to you. You will follow directions without wondering if you got it right and have important conversations without being concerned about whether your hearing aids will hold up or not.
Of course, stronger communication means an enhanced quality of life, too. You don’t need to sit like a wallflower during discussions anymore. Get right back into being socially connected.
You want a smaller hearing aid
What do you think about when you look in the mirror and see that outdated hearing aid? Clunky? Obvious? OMG? Style and flexibility are some of the most compelling reasons to upgrade those outdated hearing aids. A number of shapes, styles, and sizes are available in contemporary hearing aids. You can have one tucked into your ear so no one will ever notice it, or you can make a fashion statement with a visible hearing aid in a color you love.
It’s time to think about upgrading your hearing aids if you’re unhappy with the results you’re getting from your old set. The things that modern technology has allowed hearing aids to do was never possible before. Give us a call today to discuss your options.