Summer is a season filled with adventure, outdoor fun, and memorable moments. Your hearing aids are essential for staying connected as you engage in activities like lounging by the pool, going to summer music events, exploring hiking paths, or hosting backyard get-togethers. However, warm weather and outside environments bring distinct challenges for hearing aid users. Ensuring your devices function smoothly throughout the warmer months requires a solid grasp of appropriate maintenance and upkeep techniques specifically adapted for the summer season.
Common summer obstacles for hearing aid users
Every season presents its own obstacles for hearing aid users, and summer’s warm, often humid conditions can put your devices at risk. Common summer problems to look out for:
Moisture and humidity
Sweat, rain, and water activities raise moisture exposure for hearing aids. High humidity levels can seep into fragile electronic components, potentially causing malfunctions or oxidation. Exposure to even minimal humidity inside your devices can jeopardize audio performance or cause irreversible damage.
Wind and outside elements
Strong winds can cause hearing aids to become loose in your ears or bring particles like dust, sand, and debris into delicate areas, presenting more than just a minor aggravation. Participating 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.
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 distortion of plastic parts. Extreme heat accelerates wear and tear and reduces device lifespan.
Tips to protect your hearing aids all summer long
With a few practical habits, you can keep your hearing aids secure, dry, and functioning at their best, regardless of your summer plans are.
1. Protect your hearing aids against water
- Pre-Water Precautions: It’s essential to take out your hearing aids before participating in any aquatic activities, such as swimming or showering, to prevent damage from water exposure. Use swim caps or waterproof earplugs to keep your ear canals dry.
- Dry After Exposure: Use a soft microfiber cloth to carefully wipe your devices if they get wet. Steer clear of using heat-producing devices like hair dryers for drying purposes.
- To decrease moisture accumulation, 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 air out thoroughly.
2. Control perspiration during exercise
- Think about wearing sweatbands or headbands to absorb extra sweat and shield your ears and hearing devices while exercising or doing work outside.
- Keep Ears Clean and Dry: Regularly dry your ears thoroughly before reinserting hearing aids to prevent moisture transfer.
3. Ensure a hygienic environment
- Regular Maintenance: To prevent bacterial buildup triggered by moisture and body heat, incorporate a daily cleaning routine of gently wiping your hearing aids with specialized disinfectant wipes suitable for electronic devices and hearing instruments.
- Eliminate Debris: Inspect your devices frequently for dust, dirt, or earwax accumulation and clean as necessary. Routine cleanings carried out by your hearing professional every couple of months can help avoid permanent harm.
- Proper Storage: Store your hearing aids in a cool, dry spot when not in use. Refrain from leaving them exposed to sunlight or high temperatures.
4. Monitor device function and get professional help
If you experience changes in how well you hear, any noises coming from your hearing aids, or how long the battery lasts in the hotter season, make sure to reach out to your hearing specialist without delay. They can perform necessary maintenance or repairs to keep your hearing aids functioning efficiently.
Enjoy a stress-free summer with well-cared-for hearing aids
Summer is meant for creating memories, not for stressing about your hearing aids. With attentive care and a few simple 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.
If you’re not sure about the best way to protect your hearing aids or need professional upkeep, make an appointment today. Enjoy your summer to the fullest, knowing your hearing aids are ready for any adventure.