While it may be true that older hearing aids are better than nothing, it’s likely that what small benefit you get from them may be costly. Hearing aid technology has progressed a great deal in the last few years! It’s changed to digital from analog, for one thing, and there are features currently that weren’t even on the drawing board a decade ago.
If you’re thinking about upgrading your hearing aids, there are a few things you’ll need to do to choose the best ones for your needs. A hearing test to determine how your hearing has changed will be necessary first. Your options will start to be narrowed down when we determine your current degree of hearing loss. It’s probably time for an upgrade for the following reasons.
Dependability of hearing aids
Every once in a while you’ll get an annoying buzz or other problems with older or low-quality hearing aids. And, how about feedback whenever you get close to a phone? In some cases, there’s a shrill feedback noise that seems to come out of nowhere, also. Your feedback will be significantly decreased with newer models which have functions that compensate for common issues.
Volume isn’t enough
Ten years ago hearing aids primarily specialized in fixing the volume. Today, hearing aids are equipped with much more advanced technology.
- Voice focus: Some hearing aids also offer voice focus, which helps the user to focus on the voices they want to hear. The sound of the desired voice is detected and amplified by directionally arranged microphones. When somebody is speaking quietly or in a loud setting, voice focus can be very helpful.
- Background noise reduction: Contemporary hearing aids use numerous techniques to decrease background noise, and that includes directional microphones, noise filters, and feedback cancellation. Directional microphones focus on the sound coming from the front of the wearer, while noise filters decrease undesirable noises from all directions. When your hearing aid is not properly fitted, a whistling sound can occur which will be eliminated by feedback cancellation.
- Improved sound quality: Today’s hearing aids provide much higher sound quality than older models. This is due to advances in digital signal processing, which allows hearing aids to more precisely duplicate sound. In addition, many hearing aids now provide features like numerous programs that can be customized to different listening situations.
- Bluetooth capability: This feature lets hearing aids sync to other devices, such as smartphones, TVs, and other smart devices. This can be useful for streaming music or making phone calls.
You have to replace the batteries – frequently
Price is always a consideration when it comes to a hearing aid upgrade. The new technology isn’t cheap, but neither is wearing old, outdated hearing aids. Analog devices need new batteries frequently. The expenses will add up, particularly if you have to switch out batteries daily or more.
Out-dated hearing aids malfunction and need to go to the shop for repair more often. If you view your hearing aid as a 1992 Buick, you get the idea. The costs of the constant repairs can get quickly out of hand.
You’re not able to hear at work
Studies show that hearing loss can mean a lower paycheck. Doesn’t it make sense then, that better hearing aids would be a career asset? You’ll hear your boss and customers better. You won’t have to worry about whether you’ll miss critical information or instructions.
Clearly, stronger communication means a better quality of life, also. You’ll be capable of communicating with people again. Get right back into being socially engaged.
You’re looking for something more discreet
What do you think when you look in the mirror and see that old hearing aid? Awkward? Noticeable? OMG? Some of the most considerable benefits that come with replacing old hearing aids are style and flexibility. Quite a few shapes, styles, and sizes are available in contemporary hearing aids. You could either get one in your favorite color and make a fashion statement or get one discrete enough that it will go unnoticed by others.
It’s time to consider upgrading your hearing aids if you’re unhappy with the results you’re getting from your old pair. The things that modern technology has allowed hearing aids to do wasn’t even possible before. Call us today to discuss your options.