While it could be true that older hearing aids are better than no hearing aids, chances are what small advantage you get from them may be costly. Within the past few years, hearing aid technology has made considerable advancements. It’s changed to digital from analog, for one thing, and there are features now that weren’t even in the design phase a decade ago.
If you’re considering upgrading your hearing aids, there are a few things you’ll need to do in order to select the right ones for your needs. First, you’ll need to have a hearing test to determine if your level of hearing loss has changed. Once you understand how much hearing loss you’re dealing with, you can start to narrow down your choices. Here are a few reasons why it’s most likely time for an upgrade.
Reliability of hearing aids
Every once in a while you’ll get an aggravating buzz or other issues with older or low-quality hearing aids. And, what about feedback whenever 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 common issues so that you hear feedback less frequently.
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.
- Background noise reduction: Modern hearing aids use a variety of strategies to reduce background noise, including directional microphones, noise filters, and feedback nullification. Noise filters minimize unwanted noise while directional microphones are designed to detect sound right in front of you. Feedback cancellation helps to counter the whistling sound that can manifest when hearing aids aren’t properly fitted.
- Improved sound quality: Older hearing aid models had far lower quality of sound than modern-day models. Signal processing has become digital, which duplicates and amplifies sound in a more precise way. Additionally, many hearing aids now provide features such as numerous programs that can be customized to different listening situations.
- Voice focus: Some hearing aids also provide voice focus, which helps the user to focus on the voices they choose to hear. This is done by utilizing directional microphones to detect the sound of the desired voice and then boost it. Voice focus can be helpful in noisy environments or when the wearer is trying to hear someone who is speaking softly.
- Bluetooth capability: Tvs, cellphones, and other enabled devices can now be synced to your hearing aid. This can be helpful for streaming music or making phone calls.
You have to switch out the batteries – frequently
Price is always a factor with regard to a hearing aid upgrade. The new technology isn’t cheap, but neither is using old, out-of-date hearing aids. Analog devices need new batteries frequently. The expenses will add up, particularly if you need to replace batteries every day or more.
Out-dated 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. It’s in the shop more than it’s in your ear and the repairs are not cheap.
You can’t hear your coworkers
Research reveals that people with neglected hearing loss will earn less. Doesn’t it seem sensible then, that better hearing aids would be a career advantage? You will hear your boss and customers clearer. You will follow instructions without wondering if you got it right and have important discussions without worrying about whether your hearing aids will cut out or not.
And with better communication, you will have a better quality of life. You’ll be capable of communicating 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 outdated hearing aid? Clunky? Noticeable? OMG? Some of the most significant advantages that come with replacing old hearing aids are style and flexibility. 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 your favorite color.
If you’re considering getting new hearing aids, or if you already have them but you’re unhappy with the results, think about upgrading to a newer model. The things that modern technology has allowed hearing aids to do was never possible before. Give us a call today to talk about your options.