Small but terrible – or in the case of hearing aids, small but powerful! Hearing aids may be so small they actually fit in your external ear but they have powerful circuits. These electronic devices can also change the lives of their users by allowing them to hear better and, thus, communicate better with others.
Their Power Starts During Manufacture
In the past, hearing aids were clunky devices that, more often than not, fell off the ears of their users and called attention to their disability. Fortunately, modern technology including powerful processing platforms and miniature computers has made it possible to make small yet powerful hearing aids.
These electronic devices have miniature computers that allow for customization and programmability, even connectivity with smartphones through Bluetooth technology. Their volume can be adjusted depending on the user’s hearing loss and environment, too.
Furthermore, these aren’t the fragile devices of the past! Modern hearing aids are made of strong and sturdy materials that can withstand dirt, dust and debris as well as moisture for longer periods than their predecessors. The most common materials used are plastic, metal and silicon, usually with nano-coating for added protection.
High-end hearing aids can also withstand a few drops although proper handling is still a must. Keep in mind that these electronic devices have sensitive circuits, among other parts, that can become damaged with one drop too many.
Of course, modern hearing aids are discreet enough not to be immediately noticed by others. Many of them are snugly placed inside the external ear that only a closer inspection will reveal their presence.
Their Power Must be Maintained through Proper Care
As small as they are, hearing aids are workhorses! Aside from being equipped with powerful micro-computers, they are also put to work every day and for most hours of the week.
But even powerful devices are subject to the wear and tear that daily use brings. Since they are placed on the skin and in the ears, hearing devices are regularly exposed to your sweat, earwax and oil as well as the moisture, dust and dirt from the environment. There’s also the oil, sweat and dirt from your fingers whenever you handle them during removal and cleaning.
The bottom line: Hearing aids require proper care and maintenance if their power is to last longer than expected! You have to clean them daily with a soft, clean and dry cloth, nothing else, for starters. You should also store them in a safe place, remove them when you’re likely to expose them to moisture (e.g., shower, sauna and blow-drying, even exercising), and have them checked out by professionals every 3-4 months.
On average, hearing aids can last for three to seven years depending on their brand, features and functions as well as their care and maintenance. You have ensure that you’re actually using and caring for them in the proper manner, and your audiologist is the best resource person for it.
For more details of our hearing test & assessment, and hearing aid prescription, please contact HK Hearing & Speech Centre.
Source:
HK Hearing & Speech Centre
Specialist of Hearing test & assessment,
and Hearing Aid Prescription