If you were planning a drive up north to Big Sur, you’d want to make sure your car was in great shape before leaving. A car with a weak engine or a faulty transmission isn’t going to get you where you want to go. The same is true of weak or poor-performing hearing aids. They aren’t going to let you hear what you need to or engage with others the way you want. This is why regular hearing aid maintenance is so vital for your overall hearing health.
Benefits to Regular Hearing Aid Maintenance
For optimal performance, bring your hearing aids in for a check-up every six months to a year. We recommend you do this because:
- Your hearing professional can give your device a thorough cleaning that is beneficial even if you are diligent about your at home cleaning routine (and you should be!)
- Even small changes can make a big difference. Hearing loss is progressive and hearing needs change over time. Studies have shown that regular screenings and follow-ups are helpful for people in making decisions about their hearing health. By regularly checking in with a hearing professional, you can discuss any issues that have arisen since your last visit. They can adjust and reprogram your hearing aids to maximize their performance and leave you feeling satisfied with your device.
- You can stay up-to-date on the latest technology. The average lifespan of hearing aids is five to six years. After that time, their performance naturally starts to wane. Hearing aid technology is also evolving at a fast rate. Newer and better features to optimize your hearing are constantly becoming available. By regularly checking in, you can learn about these advancements and decide with your hearing specialist if it’s time for an upgrade.
Home Care Tips
In between check-ups always remember to practice a daily cleaning routine. Remember to:
- Wipe your hearing aids down with a soft, dry cloth every night before bed. Or use the tools found in a hearing aid cleaning kit.
- Put any face lotion or hair products on before putting your hearing aids on.
- Replace dead batteries right away.
- Turn your hearing aids off when you aren’t using them.
- Store them in a cool, dry place away from moisture or direct sunlight.
If you have any additional questions about hearing aid maintenance or wish to schedule an appointment, call Hearing Services of Santa Barbara today.
