The founder of Starkey Hearing Technologies, William F. Austin, explains the importance of hearing in this way: “Vision connects us with things; hearing connects us with people.” Hearing language, laughter and music connects us to the world around us.
Hearing our best often requires the assistance of hearing aids. At Starkey Hearing Technologies we recognize the important role hearing aids play in the lives of people all over the world. We aim to provide informational resources on technological advancements in hearing aids, tips on maintenance and care, and listening strategies. Learning to care for your hearing aids will help maintain optimal performance and ensure that you stay connected through sound by hearing your best. Below are five frequently asked questions about hearing aids.
Q: What new features have been added to hearing aids since I purchased my last set?
A: If your hearing aids are three to five years old you may benefit from our latest advancements in technology including faster processing speeds, improved hearing in noise, and wireless connectivity. Our new circuitry processes the sounds around you within milliseconds, preventing whistling and allowing you to hear comfortably in every listening environment. Brand new directional microphone technology and adaptive noise management systems give you the best opportunity to hear comfortably in noisy listening environments. Wireless connectivity allows you to stream audio from your cell phone and your television directly into your hearing aids.
Q: What is the lifespan of my hearing aids?
A: Hearing aids are often replaced after three to five years. Hearing aids can function longer than five years but often they are replaced to update the circuitry to improve listening quality. Sometimes repairing an old instrument that is out of warranty is more cost prohibitive than replacing it with a new instrument. Cleaning your hearing devices every day and scheduling routine appointments with your hearing professional will help ensure optimal performance over the lifespan of your hearing aids.
Q: How often will my hearing aids need to be repaired?
A: It is not uncommon for a hearing aid to require some degree of service each year, which is why hearing aids are sold with warranties and repair coverage. Due to their position inside your ear or behind it, hearing aids are exposed to environmental factors including: humidity, earwax, moisture, and debris. Each of those factors can adversely affect performance. Cleaning your hearing aids each and every day will drastically reduce the number of repairs they need.
Q: What should I do if my hearing aids do not seem to be working?
A: There are a few things you can check prior to calling your hearing healthcare professional for an appointment. First check and change the battery. Next, check the microphones and the receiver tube, the part that enters your ear canal, for blockage. If you see any debris, use your cleaning brush to remove it and clear the pathway so sound can easily travel through the tubing into your ear canal. If that does not fix the problem, contact your hearing healthcare professional and schedule an appointment. If the office cannot repair the aid, they will ship the hearing aid to the manufacturer for repair. If you have relocated and need assistance finding an office, you can contact Starkey Hearing Technologies directly at 1-888-481-5512 or online at http://www.starkey.com.
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