The summer months offer a wide range of stimulating experiences, thrilling outdoor adventures, and unforgettable experiences that make lifelong memories. Whether you’re spending time by the pool, attending summer concerts, hiking trails, or just enjoying backyard cookouts, your hearing aids play a crucial part in keeping you connected. 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 understanding of proper maintenance and upkeep techniques especially tailored for the summer season.
Summer challenges faced by people with hearing aids
Each season presents its own obstacles for hearing aid wearers, and summer’s warm, frequently humid conditions can put your devices in jeopardy. Typical summer problems to look out for:
Moisture and humidity
Sweat, rain, and water activities increase moisture exposure for hearing aids. Excessive moisture levels have the ability to penetrate sensitive electronic components, which might result in operational issues or rusting. Exposure to even minimal humidity inside your devices can compromise audio effectiveness or cause permanent damage.
Outdoor 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 inconvenience. Outdoor activities like gardening, beach outings, or sports can subject 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 lead to overheating, reduced battery life, or distortion of plastic parts. Extreme heat speeds up wear and tear and reduces the lifespan of devices.
Summer guidelines for safeguarding your hearing aids
With a few sensible practices, you can keep your hearing aids secure, dry, and working at their best, no matter what your summer plans are.
1. Shield your hearing aids from water
- Take them out Before Swimming or Showering: Always take out your hearing aids before swimming, bathing, or any water exposure. To stop water from getting into your ears, consider using swim caps or waterproof earplugs.
- Dry After Exposure: Use a soft microfiber cloth to carefully wipe your devices if they get wet. Never utilize heat sources like hair dryers to dry them.
- Air Out Overnight: Open the battery compartments and keep hearing aids in a drying container or dehumidifier overnight to remove moisture accumulation.
2. Manage sweat and physical activity
- Wear Sweatbands or Headbands: These absorb excess sweat and safeguard both your ears and hearing aids while exercising or doing outside chores.
- Avoid Moisture Buildup: To keep your hearing aids functioning effectively, be certain to dry your ears thoroughly after showering or bathing before putting them back in.
3. Ensure a sanitary environment
- Daily Maintenance: To prevent bacterial accumulation caused by moisture and body heat, incorporate a day-to-day cleaning habit of gently wiping your hearing aids with specialized disinfectant wipes made for electronic devices and hearing instruments.
- Remove Debris: Examine your devices often for dust, dirt, or earwax accumulation and clean as necessary. Routine cleanings performed by your hearing professional every couple of months can help prevent permanent damage.
- Don’t forget to put your hearing aids in a cool, dry location when they are not being used. Avoid leaving them exposed to sunlight or high temperatures.
4. Keep an eye on device function and seek professional help
If you detect any changes in sound quality, feedback, or battery life during summer months, don’t wait to consult your hearing care professional. They are able to conduct vital maintenance or repairs in order to ensure that your hearing aids work properly.
Have a hassle-free summer with well-maintained 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 take on the heat, moisture, and outdoor elements, letting you enjoy every conversation, bird song, and splash with crystal-clear sound.
If you’re not sure about the best way to safeguard your hearing aids or need professional upkeep, schedule an appointment today. Enjoy your summer to the fullest, with confidence that your hearing aids are ready for any adventure.