You can't determine how long hearing aids will work based on how many years you've had them. However, you can make a logical decision on when the time is right to get new aids based on the following 5 KEY FACTORS:
1. Are your hearing aids capable of handling your hearing loss? - Hearing losses can change. Whether this is gradual or sudden, if you don't have a hearing aid capable of providing you will the level of amplification you need, you will need new hearing aids.
2. Will Insurance cover the cost? - Despite popular belief, more insurances are covering a portion of hearing aid costs. Some cover a significant portion of new hearing aids every few years.
3. Warranty & Repair costs - Most hearing aids come with a 1-3 year warranty. You can continue to extend the warranty, but this can get expensive. However, paying repair costs can be expensive if you are out of warranty. The last thing you want to do is pay high warranty & repair costs for old hearing aids when you could put that towards a new set.
4. Technology Improvements - Technology is continuously improving. When there is a new feature that will have a massive improvement on your ability to hear, it makes sense to consider it. When the made for iPhone technology was introduced, it dramatically improved hearing on the phone and music. To maximize the benefits of new technology, you need to make sure you have real ear measures performed.
5. Are you still in a service plan? - If you pre-paid for service in a "bundled" model of care, you don't want to purchase new hearing aids until you've exhausted your service plan.
