Is it Time to go Digital?

Are you happy with your analog hearing aid?

Your analog hearing aid has served you well over the years, but if you’ve had the device for a while then perhaps it’s due for a replacement. Now is a good time to reassess whether an analog device still meets your needs or if it’s time to go digital.

You might be stuck with analog technology because you didn’t see the need to change, or price is a factor in your purchase. However, digital devices have significant advantages, so much so that many manufacturers are discontinuing analog models and moving forward solely with digital models. 

Switching from one type of device to another may feel outside your comfort zone, but be assured, there is nothing to worry about. Digital devices are every bit as user friendly and simple to operate as analog. The amount of maintenance is similar for both.

One major advantage of digital over analog is the superior listening experience in crowd situations.  Analog devices magnify sound, but they do this in an indiscriminate manner. For example, they amplify background noise and static, in addition to the voices you want to hear. However, digital devices come with sophisticated programing which can recognize noise pollution and “turn down the volume” on noisy distractions, leaving you to hear conversation more clearly.

The big benefit of digital is the clarity of sound. Your audiologist can fine tune your digital device to excel in different hearing environments. If you struggle to hear your partner in a subway station or find the background noise in a restaurant overwhelming, think how refreshing it would be to have the distraction tuned out. Imagine a world with the background intrusion turned down, but your partner clear in your ear. Digital aids have the ability to make that happen.

Another great innovation digital technology brings about is miniaturization.  The technology allows for equally powerful components as analog, but they are much smaller. If you’ve always longed for a more discrete device, then your wish is about to come true. Likewise, if you desire a hearing aid which reflects your personal style, then many digital devices come in a variety of attractive colors and designs to do just that.

Changing your hearing aid is a big step, and it can seem even more intimidating if the technology you are familiar with is no longer available. But sometimes change is for the better, and it could be that once you dip your toe in the water of the digital age, you’ll be so impressed you’ll wonder what took you so long to take the plunge.