While it might be true that older hearing aids are better than nothing, it’s likely that what little benefit you get from them may be costly. Within the last few years, hearing aid technology has made considerable developments. A decade ago many of the features of modern hearing aids weren’t even in development, going digital for instance.
If you’re thinking about upgrading your hearing aids, there are a few things you’ll need to do to select the best ones for your needs. A hearing test to find out how your hearing has changed will be required first. Once you are aware of how much hearing loss you have, you can begin to narrow down your choices. Here are some reasons why it’s most likely time for an upgrade.
Dependability of hearing aids
Older or even low-quality hearing aids have significant issues, such as that aggravating buzz you hear every once in a while. And, what about feedback anytime you get close to a phone? Sometimes, there’s a shrill feedback sound that seems to come out of nowhere, also. Newer models compensate for prevalent issues so that you hear feedback less often.
Volume isn’t enough
Volume regulation was about the only function of hearing aids ten years ago. Today, hearing aids are equipped with much better technology.
- Voice focus: Some hearing aids also provide voice focus, which helps the user to focus on the voices they choose to hear. The sound of the intended voice is picked up and boosted by directionally arranged microphones. Voice focus can be helpful in noisy environments or when the wearer is attempting to hear somebody who is speaking softly.
- Background noise reduction: Contemporary hearing aids use a number of strategies to reduce background noise, including directional microphones, noise filters, and feedback cancellation. Noise filters decrease unwanted noise while directional microphones are designed to detect sound directly in front of you. When your hearing aid is not correctly fitted, a whistling sound can occur which will be prevented by feedback nullification.
- Improved sound quality: Today’s hearing aids offer much higher sound quality than older models. Signal processing has gone to digital, which duplicates and amplifies sound in a more precise way. Modern hearing aids also frequently offer custom programs that are set for specific environments.
- Bluetooth capability: Tvs, cellphones, and other equipped devices can now be connected to your hearing aid. This can be useful for streaming music or making phone calls.
Frequent battery replacement
Price is always a consideration with regard to a hearing aid upgrade. The new technology is not inexpensive, but neither is using old, out-of-date hearing aids. Analog devices need new batteries a lot. The costs will add up, particularly if you need to switch out batteries every day or more.
Out-of-date hearing aids can oftentimes spend more time at the shop, also. If you view your hearing aid as a 1992 Buick, you get the idea. It’s in the shop more than it’s in your ear and the repairs are not inexpensive.
You’re not able to hear at work
Research has shown that hearing loss can mean a reduced income. Naturally, your career would benefit from wearing better hearing aids. You’ll have a better time hearing what customers, coworkers, and your boss are saying to you. You won’t have to be concerned about whether you’ll miss significant information or instructions.
Clearly, better communication means a better quality of life, also. You’ll be able to communicate with people again. Dive in and connect with the people around you.
You want a smaller hearing aid
What do you think when you look in the mirror and see that old hearing aid? Clunky? Noticeable? OMG? Flexibility and style are some of the most significant reasons to upgrade those outdated hearing aids. Today’s hearing aids come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. 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 your favorite color.
It’s time to think about upgrading your hearing aids if you’re not happy with the results you’re getting from your old pair. The things that contemporary technology has allowed hearing aids to do was never possible before. Get in touch with us for a consultation.