There often comes a point with many of our purchases where we may ask the question, "Maybe it’s time for an upgrade?" For some items, the answer is a little easier to discern; we often recognise the need to update our smartphones or computers when they begin to slow down or run out of storage space. Similarly, we understand when it's time to upgrade our cars due to high mileage or they start making unusual sounds. However, for individuals who use hearing aids, determining the right moment for an upgrade may not always be straightforward.
Like most things in life, hearing aids don’t last for ever.
If you consult with most audiologists or search for recommendations online, you'll find that the general rule of thumb for hearing aids is that wearers should expect them to last between three and five years. Of course, it's possible to extend the lifespan of your hearing aid beyond this or opt for an upgrade sooner. However, realistically speaking, like any other electronic product, all hearing aids age; they may experience technical deterioration leading to sound quality issues, or they may become outdated in terms of available features or compatibility.
Key signs that might suggest it’s time to think about an upgrade.
There are a few telltale signs that may suggest it’s time to consider talking to your hearing care provider about your hearing aids.
The sound quality isn’t the same as you remember.
Your hearing aids may not be providing the same level of clarity as they once did. Voices may sound less clear, or they may not be as effective in various daily situations. You might also notice that even with your hearing aids in, socialising is more draining than it has been in the past, as you expend more energy focusing on what is being said.
While adjustments to your hearing aids can sometimes improve this situation, if your hearing care provider has already tried this without success, it might be time to consider an upgrade.
The device is showing signs of wear and tear.
When was the last time you closely examined your hearing aids? After years of daily use, they may exhibit signs of wear and tear; crucial components like microphone ports can become blocked, earpieces can crack, buttons may get stuck, or the battery life might diminish. While a hearing aid service can address these issues, there may come a point where replacement parts are no longer available, or you are out of your device warranty.
You have new listening goals and hearing priorities.
The hearing aid you chose years ago may no longer align with the lifestyle you lead today. An upgrade may be necessary to better meet your current listening goals or hearing priorities with advanced technology and features that are more suitable for your needs.
You have noticed you are missing newer features..
Today’s hearing aids aren’t your grandfather’s hearing aids! Starkey’s latest hearing aid platform Genesis AI, launched earlier this year in Australia, includes a raft of new modern conveniences and health capabilities that your current hearing aids may not be capable of, such as:
- Integrated Bluetooth technology for direct streaming of sound from smartphones and other devices, app-based control of hearing aid settings, and remote connections to hearing care professionals for adjustments from home.
- Artificial intelligence (AI) features that work like a personal assistant to optimise hearing aid settings in challenging environments and can also alert contacts in case of a fall.
- Sensor technology that adjusts settings based on your movement or stationary status, meaning you will hear well no matter what activity you are taking part in.
- Durability and wearability improvements including design updates that enable water and dust proofing, and new improvements to rechargeable technology which now enable hearing aids to last more than 50 hours on a single charge.
You’re just not that into your hearing aids.
Satisfaction with hearing aids has never been higher. Recent surveys of hearing aid wearers show that almost 9 out of 10 hearing aid wearers are satisfied with hearing aids purchased in the last few years, up from less than 6 in 10 when the survey first started in 19831. Studies believe much of this improved satisfaction can be attributed to updates in technology, such as the features discussed in this article. If you are not satisfied with your current set of hearing aids, perhaps this is the biggest sign that it is time for an upgrade.
Ready to try a hearing aid upgrade? Try Genesis AI by Starkey.
If or you are interested in finding out how the latest hearing aid technology can improve your listening goals and priorities, talk to your hearing care provider organising a Genesis AI hearing aid trial today, the platform that delivers the latest features and much more.