Summer is a season filled with adventure, outdoor fun, and unforgettable moments. 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. Warmer temperatures and outside settings can pose various complications for people who depend on hearing aids. To be certain your devices continue to working flawlessly through the season, it’s essential to understand how to take care of them properly during summer.
Summer challenges encountered by individuals with hearing aids
The changing seasons can pose distinct challenges for individuals who wear hearing aids, with the hot and humid weather of summer being particularly harmful to the proper functioning of these devices. Here are a few common problems you may experience during the summer months:
Humidity and moisture
Sweat, rain, and water activities raise moisture exposure for hearing aids. Extreme moisture levels have the ability to infiltrate sensitive electronic components, which may lead to operational issues or rusting. Exposure to even minor humidity inside your devices can jeopardize audio performance or cause irreversible damage.
Outside elements and wind
Strong breezes aren’t just an annoyance, they can displace hearing aids from your ears or present dust, sand, and debris into delicate parts. Engaging in outdoor pursuits including gardening, visiting the beach, or playing sports might expose your hearing aids to dust and debris that can impact how well they function.
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. Excessive heat speeds up wear and tear and reduces device lifespan.
Tips to safeguard your hearing aids all summer long
With a few sensible practices, you can keep your hearing aids safe, dry, and functioning at their best, regardless of your summer plans are.
1. Protect your hearing aids against 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.
- After being exposed to moisture, make sure to gently dry your devices using a soft microfiber cloth. Avoid using heat-producing devices such as 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. Control perspiration during exercise
- Wear Sweatbands or Headbands: These absorb excess sweat and protect both your ears and hearing aids while exercising or doing outdoor chores.
- Avoid Moisture Buildup: To keep your hearing aids working effectively, make sure to dry your ears thoroughly after showering or bathing before putting them back in.
3. Ensure a hygienic environment
- Frequent Cleaning Routine: Clean your hearing aids daily with disinfectant wipes designed for electronics or hearing devices to decrease bacteria growth caused by heat and sweat.
- Regularly Check and Clean Your Devices: It’s essential to occasionally examine your devices for any build-up of debris, including dust, dirt, or earwax, and take the necessary measures to remove it. Routine cleanings carried out by your hearing professional every couple of months can help prevent long-term harm.
- Appropriate Storage: Store your hearing aids in a cool, dry place when not in use. Make sure to keep them away from sunlight and high temperatures.
4. Monitor device function and get professional help
If you notice any changes in sound quality, feedback, or battery life during summer months, don’t wait to get in touch with your hearing care professional. They are able to conduct essential upkeep or repairs in order to ensure that your hearing aids function properly.
Have a hassle-free summer with well-maintained hearing aids
Summer is a time for forging lasting experiences, not for stressing about your hearing devices. With attentive care and a few simple precautions, 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 safeguard 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.