While it could be true that older hearing aids are better than no hearing aids, chances are what small advantage you get from them comes at a cost. Hearing aid technology has progressed a great deal in the last few years! A decade ago many of the features of modern hearing aids weren’t even on the drawing board, going digital for instance.
When you determine it’s time to upgrade, choosing the right one will take some preparation. A hearing exam to ascertain how your hearing has changed will be required first. Once you recognize how much hearing loss you have, you can begin to narrow down your options. It’s most likely time for an upgrade for the following reasons.
Dependability of hearing aids
Older or even low-quality hearing aids have real issues, such as that annoying buzz you hear every now and then. And, what about feedback anytime you get close to a phone? At times, they will squeal with feedback for no apparent reason. Your feedback will be considerably diminished with newer models which have features that compensate for common issues.
Volume isn’t enough
A decade ago hearing aids mainly specialized in fixing the volume. Hearing aids have much more technology and capability nowadays.
- Improved sound quality: Older hearing aid models had far lower quality of sound than modern-day models. Signal processing has gone to digital, which duplicates and amplifies sound in a more precise way. In addition, many hearing aids now provide features including multiple programs that can be customized to different listening situations.
- Voice focus: With some newer models the user can use a voice focusing feature that lets them focus on specific voices they want to hear. The sound of the intended voice is picked up and boosted by directionally set microphones. Voice focus can be helpful in noisy settings or when the wearer is attempting to hear somebody who is speaking softly.
- Bluetooth capability: Tvs, cellphones, and other enabled devices can now be synced to your hearing aid. This can be useful for streaming music or making phone calls.
- Background noise reduction: Feedback cancellation, noise filters, and directional microphones are some of the many strategies utilized by contemporary hearing aids. Noise filters reduce unwanted sound while directional microphones are designed to focus on sound directly in front of you. When your hearing aid is not properly fitted, a whistling sound can take place which will be prevented by feedback cancellation.
Frequent battery replacing
Price is always a factor with regard to upgrading your hearing aids. The new technology is not inexpensive, but neither is using old, outdated hearing aids. The batteries in analog devices die and need replacement a lot. The expenses will add up, especially if you need to replace batteries daily or more.
Old hearing aids break down and need to go to the shop for repair more frequently. If you view your hearing aid as a 1992 Buick, you get the idea. The costs of the continual repairs can get quickly out of hand.
You’re not able to hear at work
Research has shown that hearing loss can mean a reduced income. Obviously, your career would be improved by wearing better hearing aids. You will hear your boss and customers better. You will follow directions without wondering if you got it right and have important discussions without being concerned about whether your hearing aids will cut out or not.
Clearly, stronger communication means an enhanced quality of life, also. You don’t need to sit like a wallflower during discussions anymore. Dive in and engage with the people around you.
You’re looking for something more subtle
When you look in the mirror at your old hearing aid, what words come to mind? Awkward? Obvious? OMG? Flexibility and style are some of the most compelling reasons to replace those outdated hearing aids. Today’s hearing aids come in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and colors. You can have one nestled into your ear so nobody 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 consider upgrading your hearing aids if you’re unhappy with the results you’re getting from your old pair. Technology has advanced significantly in the last few years, and there are now hearing aids available that can do things that were impossible before. Contact us today to discuss your options.
