Thursday, July 23, 2015

How long do hearing aids last?

The average hearing aid lifespan varies significantly due to the conditions they are used in and the way you care for them.  The older the hearing aids, the more often they tend to breakdown resulting in repairs.  When it comes to hearing aids, seven years may not seem very long, but the devices are considered ancient by that time.
The average lifespan is about 5 years.  There are several reasons for this:
·         Paying to repair older technology is a poor investment (typically being more expensive with age)
·         Repairs of older aids are not as reliable as newer ones
·         Parts replaced on older hearing aids may come from other older, and sometimes used, hearing aids
·         The technology is outdated
·         Old software often cannot be used on newer computers making it impossible to adjust older devices as hearing changes
·         Hearing may change so much that stronger hearing aids are needed
·         Hearing aids are not designed to last indefinitely
Hearing instruments can continue to perform very well, and last longer than the average five years, by giving them proper care.  Moisture is the leading cause of breakdowns.  Using a hearing aid dehumidifier can reduce the number of repairs and extend the life of your hearing devices.
Hearing aids eventually reach a point where it is no longer feasible to invest in repairs.  If you love the hearing aids you have, and aren't sure where you want to invest your time and money in new instruments, discuss the costs and benefits with your audiologist.  We work to support your hearing goals, including maximizing your investment in hearing instruments.  

Life sounds great!  Enjoy every moment!

Jane Kukula, Au.D.Paula Webster, M.A.
 
8897 Mentor Ave
Mentor, Ohio 44060
440-205-8848Fax: 440-205-9818
http://aacHEAR.org









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