The summer months provide a wealth of exciting experiences, exhilarating outdoor activities, and wonderful experiences that make lifelong memories. Your hearing aids are essential 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 get-togethers. However, warm weather and outside environments bring distinct obstacles for hearing aid users. Guaranteeing your devices operate properly throughout the warmer months requires a strong grasp of proper maintenance and upkeep techniques specifically tailored for the summer season.
Summer difficulties faced by people with hearing aids
Each season presents its own obstacles for hearing aid users, and summer’s warm, often humid conditions can put your devices at risk. Common summer issues to look out for:
Moisture and humidity
Sweat, rain, and water activities raise moisture exposure for hearing aids. High humidity levels can permeate into delicate electronic components, potentially causing malfunctions or oxidation. Even small amounts of moisture within your devices can affect sound quality or damage them permanently.
Outside elements and wind
Powerful 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 slight aggravation. Outside activities like gardening, beach outings, or sports can expose your hearing aids to dirt particles that interfere with their performance.
Sweltering temperatures and UV rays
Exposing hearing aids to direct sunlight or high temperatures, like leaving them on a car dashboard, can result in overheating, reduced battery life, or melting of plastic parts. Intense heat accelerates wear and tear and reduces the lifespan of devices.
Tips to safeguard your hearing aids all summer long
With a few sensible habits, you can keep your hearing aids safe, dry, and working at their best, regardless of your summer plans are.
1. Safeguard your hearing aids from water
- Pre-Water Precautions: It’s essential to take out your hearing aids prior to participating in any aquatic activities, including swimming or showering, to avoid damage from water exposure. Use 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. Steer clear of using heat-producing devices such as hair dryers for drying purposes.
- To decrease moisture build-up, leave the battery door open and store the hearing aids in a drying case or dehumidifying device for several hours or overnight, allowing them to dry out thoroughly.
2. Deal with sweat and physical activity
- Consider wearing sweatbands or headbands to soak up extra sweat and shield your ears and hearing devices while exercising or doing work outside.
- Avoid Moisture Buildup: To keep your hearing aids working properly, make sure to dry your ears completely after showering or bathing before putting them back in.
3. Ensure a hygienic environment
- Frequent Cleaning Routine: Wipe your hearing aids daily with disinfectant wipes designed for electronics or hearing devices to reduce bacteria growth caused by heat and sweat.
- Eliminate Debris: Inspect your devices often for dust, dirt, or earwax accumulation and clean as necessary. Expert cleanings by your hearing specialist every few months can avoid long-term damage.
- Proper Storage: Keep your hearing aids in a cool, dry place when not in use. Make sure to keep them away from sunlight and high temperatures.
4. Keep an eye on device operation and speak with a professional for help
If you detect any changes in sound quality, feedback, or battery drainage during summer months, don’t hesitate to consult your hearing care professional. They can perform necessary upkeep or repairs to keep your hearing aids functioning efficiently.
Have a stress-free summer with well-maintained hearing aids
Summer is a time for forging lasting experiences, not for worrying about your hearing devices. With attentive care and a few easy precautions, your devices can take on the heat, moisture, and outdoor elements, letting you enjoy every conversation, bird song, and splash with crystal-clear sound.
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 thrilling experience.