Summer is a season full of adventure, outdoor fun, and unforgettable times. Whether you’re spending time by the pool, going to summer concerts, hiking trails, or simply enjoying backyard barbecues, your hearing aids play a crucial part in keeping you connected. However, warm weather and outside environments bring unique obstacles for hearing aid users. To be certain your devices keep working flawlessly through the season, it’s important to understand how to take care of them correctly during summer.
Common summer challenges for hearing aid users
The changing seasons can pose distinct challenges for those who wear hearing aids, with the hot and humid weather of summer being especially hazardous to the effective functioning of these devices. Typical summer issues to look out for:
Humidity and moisture
Exposure to moisture from activities involving water, rain, or excessive sweating can present a threat to hearing aids. Excessive moisture levels have the ability to infiltrate sensitive electronic parts, which may result in operational problems or rusting. Even modest amounts of moisture within your devices can impact sound quality or damage them permanently.
Outdoor elements and wind
Powerful winds can cause hearing aids to become loose in your ears or introduce particles like dust, sand, and debris into delicate areas, posing more than just a slight aggravation. Engaging in outdoor pursuits including gardening, visiting the beach, or playing sports may subject your hearing aids to dust and debris that can impact how well they function.
Heat and sun exposure
Exposing hearing aids to direct sunlight or high temperatures, like leaving them on a car dashboard, can lead to overheating, decreased battery life, or melting of plastic parts. Intense heat accelerates deterioration and reduces the lifespan of devices.
Summer guidelines for safeguarding your hearing aids
With a few practical habits, you can keep your hearing aids secure, dry, and working at their best, regardless of your summer plans are.
1. Protect your hearing aids against water
- Pre-Water Precautions: It’s essential to remove your hearing aids prior to participating in any aquatic activities, such as swimming or showering, to prevent damage from water exposure. To stop water from getting into your ears, consider using swim caps or waterproof earplugs.
- After being exposed to moisture, be certain to gently dry your devices using a soft microfiber cloth. Steer clear of 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 buildup.
2. Manage sweat and physical activity
- Use Sweatbands or Headbands: These absorb excess sweat and safeguard both your ears and hearing aids while exercising or doing outside chores.
- Keep Ears Clean and Dry: Routinely dry your ears completely before reinserting hearing aids to prevent moisture transfer.
3. Maintain cleanliness and hygiene
- Regular Cleaning Routine: Wipe your hearing aids daily with disinfectant wipes designed for electronics or hearing devices to decrease bacteria growth due to heat and sweat.
- Regularly Check and Clean Your Devices: It’s important to occasionally examine your devices for any build-up of debris, including dust, dirt, or earwax, and take the required measures to remove it. Routine cleanings carried out by your hearing professional every couple of months can help avoid long-term damage.
- Don’t forget to keep your hearing aids in a cool, dry location when they are not being used. Be sure to keep them away from sunlight and high temperatures.
4. Monitor device function and seek professional help
If you notice any changes in sound quality, feedback, or battery drainage during summer months, don’t wait to consult your hearing care professional. They are able to perform vital maintenance or repairs in order to ensure that your hearing aids work properly.
Enjoy a stress-free summer with well-cared-for hearing aids
Summer is meant for making memories, not for worrying about your hearing aids. With attentive care and a few easy preventative measures, your devices can handle the heat, moisture, and outdoor elements, letting you experience every conversation, bird song, and splash with crystal-clear sound.
If you’re not sure about the best way to protect your hearing aids or need professional upkeep, schedule an appointment today. Make the most of your summer with the confidence that your hearing aids can keep up with every exciting experience.
