Hearing Aids: General Question & Answers

Hearing aids can have a transformative effect on users’ daily lives, yet they remain one of the most seldom talked about medical devices. As such an overwhelming amount of people actually know very little about them. 
 
When it comes to hearing aids, there are typically a common set of questions that circulate and appear time and time again. With that in mind, here are some of the most frequently asked questions and answers when it comes to hearing aids.

How long do hearing aids last?

The longevity of a hearing aid will be dependent on a number of factors. Like many things, if you look after your hearing aid and maintain it in line with the instructions, you can expect to have at least five years of use out of it. That said, if you fail to maintain it or adequately look after your hearing aid, it may only last two to three years before it needs replacing. Then there is the consideration of build quality; as with most things, you can expect a well-made, higher-quality hearing aid to last you the longest amount of time. 

How do I know if I need hearing aids?

One of the best and easiest ways to determine if you need a hearing aid is to schedule an appointment with your audiologist. At your appointment, an audiologist will give you a hearing test which can help to identify if there is any hearing loss and the severity of that loss. 

If you do need a hearing aid, then the audiologist will advise you as to what features to look for in a hearing and which one may be best suited to you. It is always worth visiting an audiologist before buying a hearing aid as it may be that your hearing loss is a result of wax building up in the year, in which case a hearing aid will be a waste of money. 

Is there more than one type of hearing aid?

There are lots of different hearing aids available that are made by a variety of different companies. What is more, some hearing aids will have different features than other hearing aids, so it is important that you discuss your needs with your audiologist before purchasing a hearing aid. Your audiologist will be able to identify your needs and requirements from your hearing test. 

Can I wear my hearing aid in the bath or shower?

A lot of modern hearing aids are said to be moisture resistant; however, this does not mean that they are actually waterproof. Being moisture-resistant should protect them from rain and sweat, but it is still advised that you remove your hearing aids before coming into contact with water. Therefore, it is not advisable that you wear your hearing aids while in the bath or shower and certainly not while swimming. Getting your hearing aid wet could result in it malfunctioning or reducing its lifespan.