Wouldn’t it be nice if hearing aids worked without batteries? First-time users quickly discover battery life is one of the biggest challenges with these assistive devices. They discover how frustrating it is when devices suddenly stop working because their batteries have discharged. What should a person know to reduce the risk of this happening?
The Lifespan of Hearing Aid Batteries
Hearing aid batteries vary significantly in their lifespan. Many factors determine how long the hearing aid batteries hold a charge. Large hearing aids typically hold larger batteries, allowing the charge to last longer. A behind-the-ear hearing aid may have a battery that lasts two weeks. Invisible models that sit in the ear often have a battery life of two or three days. However, each model is different, so a person must know the average battery lifespan for the devices they have.
Battery Quality
People should never buy their hearing aid batteries from the dollar store because quality is a key factor in determining the length of the battery’s lifespan. Individuals should see if the manufacturer recommends a certain brand and try that brand first. Once they get comfortable wearing the hearing aids, they can experiment with different brands to determine which lasts longest.
Usage Factors
A first-time hearing aid user may be tempted to try the various features of their device. For example, they may want to experiment with the Bluetooth feature only to become frustrated when the battery dies quickly. While it doesn’t hurt to experiment with these features to see how they work or use them once a person learns how convenient they are, it’s essential to pay attention to how they affect battery life. For example, people who continuously stream content from their devices to their hearing aids might find they need to recharge their batteries nightly rather than every few days.
The Cost of Hearing Aid Batteries
Some models use batteries that must be replaced. People should learn which batteries their new hearing aids take and spend a few days comparing prices at different locations. The price can vary significantly depending on the retailer and brand. However, many devices now come with rechargeable batteries. While these devices may cost more initially, the individual will save money over the unit’s lifetime because they won’t have to pay for replacement batteries on a weekly or monthly basis. However, they must remember to charge the devices nightly so the battery doesn’t run out during the day.
Extending the Battery Lifespan
For those who purchase batteries for use in their hearing aids instead of investing in rechargeable models, specific steps may be taken to extend the lifespan of these batteries. Always check the expiration date when purchasing batteries, as they become less effective as they approach their expiration date. Furthermore, ensure the batteries are stored in a cool, dark, and dry place to extend their life. Leave the colored tab in place until it is time to install the batteries. Removing the tab early will shorten the battery lifespan.
Individuals should consult with their healthcare team to explore alternative methods for extending the lifespan of their hearing aid batteries. The team is familiar with the device and can provide personalized recommendations tailored to the wearer. The more a person knows, the easier it is to optimize battery charge and reduce the frequency of battery replacement or charging. People get more enjoyment from their hearing aids when they aren’t constantly worried about battery life.
