Annual
Check-Ups

There are several ways to check if a hearing aid is working:

• Listen for sound: Place the hearing aid in your ear and turn it on. Speak or make a noise to see if you can hear it.
• Check the volume: Adjust the volume to make sure it is set at an appropriate level for your hearing loss.
• Check the battery: Make sure the battery is inserted properly and that it has enough power.
• Check the fit: Make sure the hearing aid is properly inserted in your ear and that the earmold or dome is the correct size for your ear canal.
• Check the settings: Make sure the hearing aid is set to the correct program for the listening situation (e.g. quiet, noisy, music).
• Consult with your audiologist. A professional will be able to help you with more accurate and detailed troubleshooting.

There are several signs that may indicate that it’s time to replace your hearing aid:

• Reduced sound quality: If you notice that the sound quality of your hearing aid has decreased, it may be time for a new one.
• Feedback: If you hear whistling or other types of feedback from your hearing aid, it could indicate a problem with the fit or the device itself.
• Reduced battery life: If you find that the battery is not lasting as long as it used to, it may be time to replace the hearing aid.
• Physical damage: If your hearing aid is physically damaged or broken, it will need to be replaced.
• Outdated technology: As technology improves, your hearing aid may become outdated and no longer able to keep up with your needs.
• Your audiologist suggests it: An audiologist is a professional who will be able to tell you if your hearing aid is still functioning well and if it’s time to replace it.

It’s important to note that the life of a hearing aid varies, depending on the model, the usage and how well the device is taken care of. It’s a good idea to have your hearing aid checked and cleaned by a professional at least once a year.

The average lifespan of a hearing aid depends on several factors, including the type of hearing aid, the level of wear and tear, and the level of maintenance. Generally, the lifespan of a hearing aid can is generally 5 years.

In-the-ear (ITE) and behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids have a shorter lifespan than completely-in-the-canal (CIC) and in-the-canal (ITC) hearing aids. This is due to the fact that the ITE and BTE hearing aids are more exposed to the elements and are therefore more susceptible to damage.

A hearing aid that is well-maintained and taken care of can last longer than one that is not. For example, keeping the hearing aid dry and clean, storing it properly when not in use, and avoiding exposure to extreme temperatures can help extend its lifespan.

It’s also important to note that the technology in hearing aids improve rapidly, so sometimes even if a hearing aid is still working, it may be outdated and not able to provide the same level of performance as newer models. In this case, even if it’s still working, it’s recommended to consider a newer device.

Yes, hearing aids need to be serviced on a regular basis to ensure they are working properly and to extend their lifespan. The frequency of service will depend on the type and model of the hearing aid, as well as the level of wear and tear.

Regular maintenance and cleaning are important to keep the hearing aid in good working order, preventing issues such as feedback, reduced sound quality, and reduced battery life.

Common services include:

• Cleaning: Hearing aids can accumulate earwax and debris, so it’s important to keep them clean. A professional can clean your hearing aid and check the earmold or dome for proper fit.
• Battery replacement: The battery in a hearing aid will need to be replaced periodically. A professional can check the battery and replace it if necessary.
• Adjustment: Over time, the settings on a hearing aid may need to be adjusted to accommodate changes in your hearing or to improve the sound quality. A professional can adjust the settings to ensure optimal performance.
• Repair: If a hearing aid is damaged or not working properly, a professional can diagnose and repair the problem.

It’s a good idea to have your hearing aid checked and cleaned by a professional at least once a year.

Consulting with an audiologist or hearing aid specialist is the best way to determine the specific service schedule for your hearing aid. They will be able to advise you on how often your hearing aid needs to be serviced based on the usage, your hearing needs and the type of device.

To check the battery level of a hearing aid, you can use the following methods:

• Look at the indicator light: Many hearing aids have a small indicator light that will change colour or blink to show the battery level.
• Use a battery tester: Some hearing aid batteries come with a small tester that can be used to check the battery level.
• Use the manufacturer’s app: Some hearing aid manufacturers have apps that can be used to check the battery level of the hearing aid.
• Use the hearing aid’s controls: Some hearing aids have controls that can be used to check the battery level.

It is important to refer to the user manual of your hearing aid for specific instructions on how to check the battery level as different hearing aids may have different ways to check.