Ever since hearing aids were invented, they have been helping people to improve their hearing capabilities. The benefits that hearing aids provide can be life changing for those who have serious hearing impairments.

However, despite the fact that hearing aids can be extremely useful and beneficial for the hearing impaired, many people still often have questions about them. Here are four of the most frequently asked questions about hearing aids.  

1. How long do hearing aids commonly last?

It is common for hearing aids to last from four to six years. The length of time that a hearing aid will last depends heavily on how well you maintain it. The better that you maintain your hearing aids, the longer that they will be likely to last. That means cleaning them regularly, not exposing them to water, not dropping them and otherwise looking after them – all of these things can help them to last longer.

2. Should I wear my hearing aids while I sleep?

In most cases, you should take your hearing aids out while you are sleeping. You should also open the battery door to help relieve any humidity that might have built up inside your hearing aid. Further, opening the battery door can help to prolong battery life.

3. Is it bad to expose my hearing aids to water?

Many hearing aids are water resistant. This means that they can handle being exposed to a little bit of water without breaking. However, this doesn’t mean that you should expose your hearing aids to water. In fact, exposing them to too much water can cause them to break. So, you should not wear your hearing aids while you go swimming, while you shower or while you walk in the rain. Unless your hearing aids are waterproof as opposed to water resistant, don’t let them get wet.

4. How frequently should I clean my hearing aids?

Cleaning your hearing aids frequently will help to keep them in tip-top shape. This means that you should try to clean them at least once every day, or every other day. Wax and dirt can build up in your hearing aids if you do not clean them. So, you should clean them regularly to prevent this from happening.

Your hearing care professional will be happy to answer any questions you have regarding hearing aids and will discuss all your options in detail. Feel free to bring up any concerns during your appointment with your hearing specialist.