The summer months offer a wide range of exciting experiences, thrilling outdoor adventures, and unforgettable experiences that make lifelong memories. Your hearing aids are imperative for remaining connected as you take part in activities like chilling by the pool, going to summer music events, exploring hiking paths, or hosting backyard cookouts. But, warm weather and outside environments bring distinct challenges for hearing aid users. To be certain your devices keep working perfectly through the season, it’s essential to recognize how to take care of them properly during summer.
Summer difficulties encountered by people who use hearing aids
The changing seasons can present distinct difficulties for those who use hearing aids, with the hot and humid weather of summer being particularly hazardous to the proper functioning of these devices. Common summer issues to watch out for:
Moisture and humidity
Exposure to moisture from activities featuring water, rain, or excessive sweating can pose a threat to hearing aids. High humidity levels can seep into fragile electronic components, potentially creating malfunctions or oxidation. Even modest amounts of moisture within your devices can affect sound quality or damage them permanently.
Outdoor elements and wind
Strong winds can cause hearing aids to become loose in your ears or bring particles like dust, sand, and debris into delicate areas, posing more than just a minor aggravation. Engaging in outside pursuits such as gardening, visiting the beach, or playing sports might subject your hearing aids to dirt and debris that can impact how well they function.
Sweltering temperatures and UV rays
Exposing hearing aids to direct sunlight or high temperatures, like keeping them on a car dashboard, can lead to overheating, reduced battery life, or distortion of plastic parts. Intense heat speeds up deterioration and reduces the longevity of devices.
Tips to safeguard your hearing aids all summer long
By embracing a handful of helpful habits, you can ensure that your hearing aids remain secure, moisture-free, and functioning efficiently throughout the summer, regardless of your activities.
1. Protect your hearing aids against water
- Pre-Water Precautions: It’s essential to remove your hearing aids before participating in any aquatic activities, including swimming or showering, to avoid damage from water exposure. Utilize swim caps or waterproof earplugs to keep your ear canals dry.
- After being exposed to moisture, be certain to gently dry your devices using a soft microfiber cloth. Avoid using heat-producing devices like hair dryers for drying purposes.
- Air Out Overnight: Open up the battery compartments and keep hearing aids in a drying container or dehumidifier overnight to remove moisture accumulation.
2. Deal with sweat and physical activity
- Consider using sweatbands or headbands to soak up extra sweat and shield your ears and hearing devices while exercising or doing work outside.
- Avoid Moisture Accumulation: To keep your hearing aids functioning effectively, be certain to dry your ears completely after showering or bathing before putting them back in.
3. Ensure a sanitary environment
- Regular Cleaning Routine: Clean your hearing aids every day with disinfectant wipes designed for electronics or hearing devices to reduce bacteria growth due to heat and sweat.
- Remove Debris: Inspect your devices often for dust, dirt, or earwax buildup and clean accordingly. Expert cleanings by your hearing specialist every few months can prevent long-term damage.
- Appropriate Storage: Store your hearing aids in a cool, dry spot when not in use. Avoid leaving them exposed to sunlight or hot temperatures.
4. Keep an eye on device performance and speak with a professional for help
If you detect differences in how well you hear, any noises coming from your hearing device, or how long the battery lasts in the hotter season, be certain to reach out to your hearing specialist without delay. They are able to conduct vital maintenance or repairs in order to ensure that your hearing aids function properly.
Have a stress-free summer with well-maintained hearing aids
Summer is a time for creating long lasting experiences, not for stressing about your hearing devices. By being mindful and taking simple steps to protect your devices, you can ensure they can endure hot temperatures, moisture, and outdoor conditions. This will allow you to enjoy clear sound while experiencing conversations, bird songs, and water splashes.
For professional guidance on safeguarding your hearing aids or to set up a thorough check-up, book a consultation with a specialist at your earliest convenience. Make the most of your summer with the confidence that your hearing aids can keep up with every exciting experience.