If you’re still wearing your older hearing aids, they may 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 substantial advancements. It’s changed from analog to digital, for one thing, and there are features today that weren’t even in the design phase 10 years ago.
When you determine it’s time to upgrade, choosing the right one will take some planning. A hearing test to identify how your hearing has changed will be required first. Once you understand how much hearing loss you’re dealing with, you can begin to narrow down your options. It’s probably time for an upgrade for the following reasons.
Hearing aid dependability
Older or even low-quality hearing aids have real issues, like that irritating buzz you hear every once in a while. And, how about feedback anytime you get close to a phone? In some cases, there’s a shrill feedback noise that seems to happen out of nowhere, too. Newer models compensate for common problems so that you hear feedback less frequently.
Volume isn’t enough
Ten years ago hearing aids chiefly focused on fixing the volume. Hearing aids have much more technology and functionality nowadays.
- Voice focus: Some hearing aids also provide voice focus, which helps the user to focus on the voices they want to hear. The sound of the desired voice is picked up and boosted by directionally arranged microphones. When somebody is speaking quietly or in a loud setting, voice focus can be very helpful.
- Bluetooth capability: This feature lets hearing aids sync to other devices, like smartphones, TVs, and other smart devices. This can be helpful for streaming music or making phone calls.
- Background noise reduction: Feedback nullification, noise filters, and directional microphones are a few of the many techniques used by contemporary hearing aids. Noise filters minimize unwanted sound while directional microphones are made to focus on sound directly in front of you. Feedback cancellation helps to counter the whistling sound that can manifest when hearing aids aren’t fitted properly.
- Improved sound quality: Today’s hearing aids provide much better sound quality than older models. This is due to advances in digital signal processing, which allows hearing aids to more accurately reproduce sound. Modern hearing aids also often feature custom programs that are preset for specific situations.
You have to switch out the batteries – a lot
When we’re thinking about a hearing aid upgrade, cost is always a factor. The new technology is not cheap, but neither is wearing old, out-of-date hearing aids. The batteries in analog devices die and need replacement frequently. The expenses will add up, especially if you need to switch out batteries daily or more.
Old hearing aids can potentially spend more time at the shop, also. Think of what a 1990 Chevy would be like and apply that idea to hearing aids. It’s in the shop more than it’s in your ear and the repairs are not cheap.
You’re not capable of hearing at work
Studies show that hearing loss can mean a lower income. Obviously, your career would benefit from wearing better hearing aids. You will hear your boss and customers better. You won’t have to worry about whether you’ll miss important information or guidelines.
Of course, better communication means a better quality of life, also. You don’t have to sit by yourself in the middle of conversations anymore. Dive in and connect with the people around you.
You want something more subtle
What do you think about when you look in the mirror and see that outdated hearing aid? Clunky? Noticeable? OMG? Some of the most compelling advantages that come with updating old hearing aids are style and flexibility. Today’s hearing aids come in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and colors. 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.
If you’re thinking about investing in new hearing aids, or if you’re already wearing them but you’re unhappy with the results, consider upgrading to a newer model. Technology has come a long way in the last few years, and there are now hearing aids available that can do things that were never possible in the past. Contact us today to discuss your options.