4 clear signs it's time to replace your hearing aids

While the physical lifespan of a hearing aid is typically four to six years¹ – influenced by factors such as build quality, maintenance, moisture exposure and daily wear – the level of technology affects how current and beneficial the device remains over time.  

As your hearing needs or lifestyle change, or as newer features for your hearing aids become available, it’s worth reassessing whether your current devices are still the best fit for you. Regular check-ins with your audiologist can help you stay ahead of any performance issues or missed opportunities to upgrade. 

Sign #1: Diminished sound quality  

It’s all about the sound; if your hearing aids aren’t delivering the crisp, clear listening experience you’re used to, you may not be getting the best performance anymore.  

Some of the symptoms include difficulty understanding speech, muffled sounds, whistling noises, intermittent sounds or distortion.² 

Your hearing may change over time, so it’s important to have an annual check-in with your audiologist. They can advise if you need an adjustment, or if you might need new hearing aids, based on the degree of your hearing loss.² 

Sign #2: Frequent repairs and malfunctions 

Hearing aids need regular maintenance and repairs to make sure they work smoothly and perform at their best. This can include:  

• Simple cleaning to remove earwax build-up or debris causing blockages to the sound components 

• Minor adjustments, such as replacing tubes, wax guards, cleaning the receivers or adjusting the sound settings 

• Extensive repairs if the damage is more severe, which can involve sending the device back to the manufacturer 

If you find yourself needing repeated repairs, it can be a great opportunity to consider upgrading your hearing aids for improved reliability and peace of mind. 

Sign #3: Outdated technology 

Hearing aids are continually advancing with new features that improve sound clarity and performance. Today’s customers expect seamless hearing and convenient new features and are often eager to access breakthroughs as they are released.  

Brands like Signia and Widex lead the way in high-tech, innovative hearing aids with features such as: 

• Rechargeability 
• Health and fitness tracking 
• Seamless and convenient hearing experience 
• Settings tailored to your needs 
• Hands-free calls 
• Music streaming for longer⁴
• Wireless, on-the-go charging⁴
• Reduced background noise 
• Motion sensors and sound directionality 

Sign #4: Changes in lifestyle and needs  

If a new job, new hobbies or retirement have changed the way you spend your time, it’s a good time to check whether your hearing aids still suit your needs. 

Research shows that different lifestyles play a significant role in the decision to replace hearing aids. You might opt for specific features, new functions or a style that better fits your life and helps you communicate with confidence. 

If you’ve experienced a change in your lifestyle, now may be a good time to review your situation and update your hearing aids.  

Benefits of upgrading your hearing aids 

Are your current hearing aids keeping pace with the way you live today? Your hearing aids are with you every day, helping you confidently experience every moment, big or small. Life changes, and your hearing does too, so you may be wondering whether your hearing aids need an upgrade.  

Just like each new mobile phone model brings with it an exciting array of upgraded features, hearing aids are also a space for exciting innovation and rapid change. If you think it’s time for an upgrade, book in for a review of your hearing and take a look at the latest hearing aid models on the market. 

New hearing aids can bring you many valuable benefits: 

1. Sharper, clearer sound: Newer models often come with advanced sound processing, helping you hear speech more clearly, especially in noisy places like restaurants, family
2. Stay connected with ease: Modern hearing aids seamlessly connect to your smartphone, TV or computer, enabling hands-free calls and on-the-go music streaming. 
3. Rechargeable hearing aids are increasingly popular: Rechargeable hearing aids eliminate the hassle of changing batteries, which is ideal for people who want convenience or have dexterity concerns. 

Taking the next step: consultation and evaluation 

It’s important to consult an expert audiologist for a comprehensive hearing evaluation. The experts at Audiology South are your trusted partner in assessing your hearing needs and providing upgrade options. 

Here’s a glimpse into what a typical hearing assessment appointment involves: 

• Questions related to your hearing health and history 
• Examination of any visible issues that can affect your hearing 
• Comprehensive hearing assessment  
• Diagnosis and discussion of results 
• Solutions to match you with the best hearing aid options 

Upgrades and insurance coverage for hearing aids  

In New Zealand upgrades for your hearing aids may be partially or fully covered by health insurance, government subsidies or national health services. Coverage varies, so it’s worth checking with your Audiology South expert, insurance company or government health authority to understand what support may be available. If you're unsure, the Audiology South team can help guide you through your options.

When to get new hearing aids 

Knowing when to get new hearing aids can be overwhelming, so reviewing your current hearing aids’ performance is a good first step.  

• Is sound quality diminishing?  
• Is the technology in your hearing aids outdated?  
• Are repairs becoming more frequent and more costly?  
• Has your lifestyle changed?  
• Is the lifespan of your hearing aids drawing close to six years? 

If the answer to any of these questions is yes, now is a great time to reach out to the experts at Audiology South and take the next step toward better hearing. 

Sources: 

1. Arun,A.and Yadav, M.C. (2024) ‘Factors influencing the decision to upgrade or replace existing hearing aids among users’, International Journal of Speech and Audiology, 5(1), pp. 40–44.  
   https://www.rehabilitationjournals.com/speech-and-audiology-journal/article/50/5-1-10-214.pdf 
2. Audiology South: Repairs & Spares: Repairs & Spares | Audiology South
   
3. WSAudiology: Innovation: Innovation - WSA
4. Signia: The new PureCharge&GoBCT IX: Signia Pure Charge&Go BCT IX - RIC hearing aids with Bluetooth Classic | Signia