There Are Changes To Your Lifestyle Or Circumstances
Its easy for your lifestyle or circumstances to change, affecting the performance of your hearing aid and how effective it is for you. Simple changes such as changing your phone, or how often you exercise, can affect the type of hearing aid you need. With different styles of hearing aids having different features and functions, its important to choose a hearing aid that best meets your needs so that you can keep on enjoying your daily activities.
Cleaning Your Hearing Aid
Because of the placement of a hearing aid inside your ear, its easy to get wax or residue build-up, which blocks the sound from moving through the hearing aid and into your ear. In order to maintain the effectiveness of the hearing aid, you can regularly clean your hearing aids at home.
Start with a gentle cloth rub of the hearing aid with a dry cloth. This will get rid of the outside debris. You can then remove the dome and clean the inside with a brush a dry toothbrush will work just fine.
The dome is the rubbery portion that goes inside the ear. You can also change the wax guard on your hearing aid with a little more effort involved. This requires having a replacement wax guard and a special tool. Some manufacturers have special hearing aid cleaning services they provide and manufacturers will do all the cleaning for you for a small fee.
Are Your Current Hearing Aids Meeting Your Hearing Prescription
To get the most from your hearing aids, they need to be set to your hearing prescription. There are a number of methods for calculating a hearing prescription , but broadly speaking, more hearing aid volume is prescribed for worse hearing levels. To verify that your hearing aids are meeting your prescription, your hearing provider should perform a real-ear measurement to measure the sound levels produced by your hearing aids, inside your very own ear canals. Without performing this type of measurement, no one can be certain that your hearing aids are doing their job.
Real-Ear Measurements being performed
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How Do I Re
You can bring your earmolds to your audiologist or hearingcare professional to have them re-tubed. You can also ask your audiologist toshow you how to re-tube your earmold yourself.
To re-tube your earmold, follow the instructions below. Youwill need new tubing and a small pair of scissors.
It Can Be Expensive Having Out Of Date Hearing Aids
One concern when you are purchasing new hearing aids is definitely the cost. When you carefully consider all the factors, you will realize that older outdated hearing aids will wind up costing you more than new ones. Analog devices need new batteries regularly. It can be costly to replace the batteries once or even twice every day.
Lets not forget the repair costs with out of date technology. Think about having to deal with an old car or truck. Repair services are costly if your hearing aid is in the shop more than its in your ear.
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You Want To Try A Different Type Of Device
If youre being fitted for a hearing aid for the first time, you could be pleasantly surprised at the amount of choice that exists. To help you get used to wearing a hearing aid, you might choose a basic device to start with, moving onto something different in time. Hearing aids have different functions and settings, and for your next device, you might want to invest in something a little more advanced.
Your budget can also affect the type of hearing aid you choose. Its important to find a hearing aid you can afford, and if your financial situation improves in time, you might want to invest in a different type of hearing aid. Your audiologist can work with you to recommend the most appropriate hearing aid to fit in your needs and price range.
Rechargeable Hearing Aids Increasing In Popularity
Cross predicts rechargeable hearing aid instruments will become even more commonplace as sound quality, battery efficiency and interchangeability, and cosmetic appeal continue to improve.
Over 35 years Ive seen rechargeability come out as a means of drawing people into the hearing aid marketplace, he said. It resurfaces every seven years or so as something fresh and new and then it goes away. This last wave has become more of a mainstay. The current generation of technology has come close to meeting consumer requests, thats why I think its going to become normalized moving forward.
His patients who wear rechargeable hearing aids like them and are comfortable with them. They got them for a reason, Cross said. They were appropriate for them and met the needs that they have.
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When Should Tubing Bechanged
Over time, the hearing aid tubing can become brittle andhard and may even crack. Additionally, wax and debris may collect in the tubingand earmold. This can greatly affect the sound quality of the hearing aid andcomfort of the hearing aid on the ear. Earmolds should be re-tubed every fourto six months in order for the hearing aids to continue working at optimumperformance.
Hearing Aids: A Style To Match Your Requirements
Most people who use hearing aids dont want people to know that thats what they are. This has driven manufacturers to design and make newer hearing aid styles that are more discreet and, if seen at all, resemble the earbuds that are popular for listening to music. So there are lots of models to choose from, and in consultation with your audiologist, you can select the kind of hearing aid that looks good and also delivers the sound amplification you need.
These are the most common types of hearing aids in use today:
- Completely in the Canal
This is the smallest hearing aid you can expect to get because, as the name suggests, it fits inside the ear canal and is moulded by audiologists to be a perfect fit.
Pros: Its not really visible and doesnt pick up wind, which can be bothersome.
Cons: The battery is much smaller than other types and doesnt last as long earwax can cover the speaker, meaning you get muffled sounds.
SUITABLE FOR: Mild to moderate hearing loss.
- In the Canal
Part of this hearing aid is placed in the canal, and part of it remains outside.
Pros: Even though its not entirely in the ear canal, this kind of hearing aid is still not all that visible. Its larger than completely in the canal types, which means its packed with more features.
Cons: It can be hard to adjust, and the speaker can become clogged with earwax.
SUITABLE FOR: Mild to moderate hearing loss.
- Behind the Ear
SUITABLE FOR: All levels of hearing loss.
- In the Ear
- Receiver in Canal
- Open Fit
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Can I Appeal Any Decision Vac Makes About My Treatment Benefits
Yes. If you are not satisfied with the decision, you have the right to request a review There are two levels of review.
- First Level Review The decision letter indicates how to submit a request for a first level review.
- Final Review The decision letter for your first level review will indicate how to request a final review.
When To Replace Hearing Aids
Over the years, general wear and tear can take their toll on hearing aids, and you may also find that your hearing aids arent as sharp as they used to be. If youve damaged your hearing aids or theyre not working as well as they used to, consult your audiologist. It may be possible to carry out running hearing aid repairs, but if the devices are damaged extensively, or they are old and approaching the end of their life, replacing them may be the best option for you.
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Help And Support If You Wear Hearing Aids
Adjusting to hearing aids can be difficult at first. It may take a few weeks or months to get used to them.
You’ll have follow-up appointments after they’re fitted to check how things are going, but get in touch with your audiologist at any point if you’re having problems.
Several hearing loss organisations can also provide help and support if you’re adapting to hearing loss or life with a hearing aid.
How Often Do You Need To Replace Hearing Aid Earmolds
If your earmold becomes discolored, is ripping, isnt fitting right, or is often coming out of your ear, it is probably time to consider replacing your earmolds.
If youre getting feedback or whistling from the hearing aid then that means it is not fitting correctly anymore as this shows that sound is escaping from your ear and being picked up again by the hearing aids microphone.
The length of time that people keep their earmolds varies, as there is no definite lifespan for them. Youll need to keep an eye on your device and take note of any of these changes.
Also, if your ear shape changes it will likely require a bit of adjusting. Molded hearing aids will need to be checked form time to time to ensure it still fits correctly.
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Improvement In Your Financial Situation
The kind of hearing aids you acquire mainly depends on your lifestyle, preference and budget. When you buy your first pair, chances are you go for the more economical option. However, as time goes, your financial situation may improve, enabling you to upgrade your devices to something with more advanced features. When the time comes, have an audiologist customize new hearing aids for you.
Different Styles Different Maintenance
Different styles of hearing aids DO require different methods of care and attention. BTE hearing aids have tubes that should be changed when they become hard and brittle. RIC hearing aids often have domes that need to be replaced when they become old and worn the receivers may need replacing by your audiologist. Wax filters may be present on various styles of hearing aids, these may need to be changed more or less often, depending on a variety of factors.
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How Often Should You Get New Hearing Aids
Contributed by Joy Victory, managing editor, Healthy HearingLast updated August 31, 20202020-08-31T00:00:00-05:00
Hearing aids are complex devices, so it’s important to understand when it’s time to start considering buying a new pair.
Hearing aids need replacing every few years, depending on several factors.
Aside from when your hearing aids are beyond repair as determined by a hearing specialist or audiologist, here are some other reasons to consider upgrading your hearing aids:
Your Hearing Aids Are More Than Five Years Old
Modern hearing aids are made to last much longer than these devices did in the past they are more robust, and it is easier to fix them when something goes wrong. Yet despite this, if your hearing aids are over five years old, you should replace them. If you do this even if nothing appears to be wrong with them, you are bypassing a time when things will start to get wrong. The truth is that all hearing aids go through a lot. Youre wearing them every single day for somewhere between 12-16 hours at a time in most cases. The fact that they can last as much as five years without having any problems is impressive, and to ensure you can continue to enjoy good hearing, its wise to exchange them before they start to go wrong. Whats great about exchanging your hearing aids every five years or so is that every time you get a new device or pair of devices, they are going to be even more advanced when it comes to the technology used to make them.
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Has The Degree Of Your Hearing Loss Changed Significantly
Annual monitoring of your hearing is important. If your hearing has decreased, your hearing healthcare professional should adjust your hearing aids to match your current hearing prescription. However, over the years, the change in hearing loss may become so significant that your current hearing aids may no longer be effective. Your hearing care professional will be able to advise you when it is time to consider new hearing aids.
Your Hearing Aid Is More Than Five Years Old
Over time, the performance of your hearing aid will decline. Even if you havent noticed any obvious signs of a problem, audiologists recommend changing your device at least every five years. A problem with your hearing aid can be progressive, meaning you might not notice theres anything wrong. An appointment with your audiologist can help you get fitted for a new device and feel confident youre using a hearing aid that works as it should.
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How You Will Know The Wax Guard Needs Changing
During your regular clean and care routine take a good look at the speaker end of your hearing aid. Check your wax guard carefully and see if it has a lot of wax in it. Most wax guards have a series of holes in the cup part of them that are visible to a good eye. If they are blocked, or if you can’t see them at all. It is time to change your wax guard. Don’t wait for the sound to go dead or weaken, sometimes, that just won’t happen until the wax has invaded the speaker part itself.
Your Hearing Aids Are Over Five Years Old
Modern hearing aids are much more robust than those of just a decade or so ago. However, that doesnt mean they will last forever, and it doesnt mean that, when something goes wrong, an expert can definitely fix them. Once things start to go wrong with them and they dont work in the way they should, if they are older than five years, your hearing instrument specialist will likely recommend replacing your devices rather than repairing them.
You might not realize it, but hearing aids get a lot of use , and eventually, they will start to fail. The good news is that if you replace your hearing aids every five years or so, youll always have the most up-to-date models with the best technology included in them.
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The Question Is Why Shouldnt Your Hearing Aids Be More Fashionable
How do you really feel when you see yourself in the mirror with those outdated hearing aids on? Awkward? Obvious? Seriously?? One of the most significant benefits that come with updating old hearing aids is style and flexibility. There is a never-ending range of customizations available with modern hearing aids like size, color, and shape. If you would like to make a fashion statement, pick a custom color, or maybe choose one that is invisible in the ear.
Replacing Your Hearing Aid With Affordable Audiology & Hearing Service
If you think you could be due a new hearing aid, Affordable Audiology & Hearing Service can help. As audiology experts, you can benefit from a professional fitting service that will ensure you have the most appropriate hearing aid for your needs. With a wide range of hearing aids to suit different budgets and needs, and experts ready to help you find what youre looking for, you could soon be matched with your ideal hearing aid.
To find out more about the hearing aid services we provide, contact Affordable Audiology & Hearing Service today. We can provide a free, no-risk hearing and listening demonstration to help you find out if our services are right for you. Alternatively, call us today at 920-232-4752 to learn more.
- Fond du Lac, WI 54935
- 926-3328
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Joy Victory Managing Editor Healthy Hearing
Joy Victory has extensive experience editing consumer health information. Her training in particular has focused on how to best communicate evidence-based medical guidelines and clinical trial results to the public. She strives to make health content accurate, accessible and engaging to the public.Read more about Joy.
The Question Is Why Shouldnt Your Hearing Aids Be More Stylish
When you look in the mirror at your out of date hearing aid, what comes to mind? Awkward? Noticeable? Oh my god? When you upgrade your obsolete hearing aids you have the significant benefit of improved flexibility and refined style. There is a never-ending variety of personalizations possible with modern hearing aids such as size, color, and shape. If you want to make a fashion statement, choose a custom color, or maybe choose one that is invisible inside the ear.
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Why Change The Wax Filters
Earwax contains a lot more moisture than you realize. This moisture causes damage to the intricate digital components in your hearing aids. Also called wax guards, the purpose of earwax filters is to keep earwax from penetrating to the most critical parts of the device. Whenever too much wax builds up in the filters, it begins to muffle amplification and can produce the moisture they intend to prevent.