Hearing aids are a life-changing investment for many people, helping them reconnect with family, friends, and the world around them. If you’re thinking about getting hearing aids (or if you already have them) you might wonder, “How long do hearing aids last?” 

Let’s take a closer look at the average lifespan of hearing aids and what you can do to help yours last as long as possible.

What’s the Average Lifespan?

On average, hearing aids last about 3 to 7 years.

The exact lifespan can vary depending on several factors, like:

  • The quality of the device
  • How well you care for them
  • How much you wear them each day
  • Your environment (things like moisture, dust, and earwax can affect them)

High-quality hearing aids that are properly cared for can often reach the 5 to 7 year mark.

Factors That Affect Hearing Aid Lifespan

Just like most appliances or gadgets, the performance and lifespan of a hearing aid depends on how well you use them and take care of them.

1. Daily Care Plus Wear and Tear

Daily cleaning and regular professional checkups are key. Wipe down your hearing aids every night. Keep them dry and change wax guards and tubing when needed.

2. Lifestyle and Environment

If you live in a humid area, sweat a lot, or are exposed to dust or dirt often, your hearing aids may wear out more quickly. Moisture and debris can slowly damage the inside parts of the device.

3. Technology Changes

Even if your hearing aids are still working after five or six years, the technology inside them might be out of date. Newer hearing aids often have better sound quality, improved background noise control, Bluetooth features, and other helpful updates.

4. Changes in Your Hearing

Your hearing needs might change over time. If your hearing gets worse, you might need a stronger hearing aid before your old one completely wears out.

Signs It Might Be Time for New Hearing Aids

When would be the best time to replace or change your hearing aids? Should you wait until they get past their “expected” life span? Or should you upgrade after a couple of years?

There’s no exact answer to that because it greatly depends on how often you use your hearing aids and the wear and tear they get exposed to on a daily basis.

Below are some signs that might help you decide:

  • Frequent need for repairs
  • Shorter battery life
  • Changes in sound quality
  • You feel uncomfortable with the fit

If you’re experiencing any of these problems, it would be best to talk to your hearing care provider or audiologist.

Link Audiology connects you to expert audiologists in Silverdale, WA, Vashon, WA, and University Place, WA.

How to Make Your Hearing Aids Last Longer

You can help stretch the life of your hearing aids by doing the following:

  • Clean them every day.
  • Keep them dry.
  • Use a drying box or dehumidifier and put your device there when not in use.
  • Change wax guards and filters as needed.
  • Avoid dropping your hearing aids.

Audiologists and Hearing Aids in Washington

At Link Audiology, we’re here to help you get the most out of your hearing aids. Whether you need a cleaning, a repair, an adjustment, or advice about upgrading, our experienced audiologists in Washington can guide you every step of the way.

We offer a wide selection of hearing aids in Vashon, WA, Silverdale, WA, and University Place. 

We’re happy to help you make smart choices about repairs, upgrades, and new technology when the time is right.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment!