The summer months provide a wealth of stimulating experiences, thrilling outdoor activities, and unforgettable experiences that make lifelong memories. Whether you’re spending time by the pool, going to summer concerts, hiking trails, or simply enjoying backyard barbecues, your hearing aids play a vital role in keeping you connected. But, warm weather and outside environments bring unique challenges for hearing aid users. Guaranteeing your devices function properly throughout the warmer months requires a solid understanding of proper maintenance and upkeep techniques specifically tailored for the summer season.
Summer challenges encountered by people who use hearing aids
The changing seasons can pose unique difficulties for those who wear hearing aids, with the hot and humid weather of summer being especially hazardous to the effective functioning of these devices. Here are some common issues you may encounter during the summer months:
Humidity and moisture
Exposure to moisture from activities featuring water, rain, or excessive sweating can present a risk to hearing aids. High humidity levels can permeate into fragile electronic components, potentially creating malfunctions or corrosion. Even small amounts of moisture inside your devices can impact sound quality or damage them permanently.
Outside elements and wind
Strong winds can cause hearing aids to become loose in your ears or introduce particles like dust, sand, and debris into fragile areas, presenting more than just a slight aggravation. Participating in outside pursuits such as gardening, visiting the beach, or playing sports may expose 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 keeping them on a car dashboard, can lead to overheating, reduced battery life, or distortion of plastic parts. Intense heat speeds up wear and tear and reduces the longevity of devices.
Summer tips for protecting your hearing aids
By embracing a handful of helpful habits, you can ensure that your hearing aids stay secure, moisture-free, and working efficiently throughout the summer, regardless of your activities.
1. Shield your hearing aids from water
- Take them out Before Swimming or Showering: Always remove your hearing aids before swimming, bathing, or any water exposure. Use swim caps or waterproof earplugs to keep your ear canals dry.
- Dry After Exposure: Use a soft microfiber cloth to gently wipe your devices if they get wet. 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 at night to prevent moisture buildup.
2. Manage sweat and physical activity
- Use Sweatbands or Headbands: These soak up 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 avoid moisture transfer.
3. Ensure a hygienic environment
- Frequent Cleaning Routine: Wipe your hearing aids every day with disinfectant wipes made for electronics or hearing devices to decrease bacteria growth caused by heat and sweat.
- Routinely Check and Clean Your Devices: It’s essential to periodically inspect your devices for any build-up of debris, such as dust, dirt, or earwax, and take the necessary measures to eliminate it. Regular cleanings carried out by your hearing professional every couple of months can help prevent long-term damage.
- Don’t forget to put your hearing aids in a cool, dry location when they are not being used. Refrain from leaving them exposed to sunlight or hot temperatures.
4. Monitor device function and seek professional help
If you detect changes in how well you hear, any noises coming from your hearing aids, or how long the battery lasts in the warmer season, make sure to reach out to your hearing specialist without delay. They can carry out required maintenance or repairs to keep your hearing aids working smoothly.
Have a stress-free summer with well-maintained hearing aids
Summer is meant for making memories, not for stressing about your hearing aids. By being attentive and taking simple steps to protect your devices, you can ensure they can withstand hot temperatures, moisture, and outdoor conditions. This will allow you to enjoy clear sound while experiencing discussions, bird songs, and water splashes.
For professional guidance on protecting your hearing aids or to arrange a thorough check-up, book a consultation with a specialist at your earliest convenience. Enjoy your summer to the fullest, knowing your hearing aids are ready for any adventure.