The summer months provide a wealth of exciting experiences, exhilarating outdoor activities, and unforgettable experiences that create lifelong memories. Whether you’re hanging out by the pool, going to summer concerts, hiking trails, or simply enjoying backyard barbecues, your hearing aids play a vital part in keeping you connected. However, warm weather and outside environments bring unique obstacles for hearing aid users. Guaranteeing your devices operate smoothly throughout the warmer months requires a strong grasp of proper maintenance and upkeep techniques especially tailored for the summer season.
Summer challenges encountered by individuals who use hearing aids
Each season introduces its own challenges for hearing aid wearers, and summer’s warm, often humid conditions can put your devices in jeopardy. Common summer issues to watch out for:
Humidity and moisture
Exposure to moisture from activities involving 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. Exposure to even minor humidity within your devices can jeopardize audio performance or lead to irreversible damage.
Outdoor elements and wind
Strong breezes aren’t just an aggravation, they can displace hearing aids from your ears or present dust, sand, and debris into sensitive parts. Engaging in outside pursuits including gardening, visiting the beach, or playing sports might subject your hearing aids to dust and debris that can impact how well they work.
Heat and sun exposure
Exposing hearing aids to direct sunlight or high temperatures, like keeping them on a car dashboard, can lead to overheating, decreased battery life, or melting of plastic parts. Excessive heat accelerates wear and tear and reduces device longevity.
Tips to protect your hearing aids all summer long
By adopting a handful of useful routines, you can ensure that your hearing aids stay secure, moisture-free, and functioning optimally throughout the summer, regardless of your activities.
1. Shield your hearing aids from water
- Pre-Water Precautions: It’s important to take out your hearing aids before engaging in any aquatic activities, such as swimming or showering, to prevent damage from water exposure. To prevent water from entering into your ears, think about using swim caps or waterproof earplugs.
- Dry After Exposure: Use a soft microfiber cloth to carefully wipe your devices if they get wet. Never use heat sources like hair dryers to dry them.
- Air Out Overnight: Open up the battery compartments and store hearing aids in a drying container or dehumidifier overnight to prevent moisture accumulation.
2. Manage sweat and physical activity
- Think about using sweatbands or headbands to absorb extra sweat and shield your ears and hearing devices while exercising or doing tasks outside.
- Avoid Moisture Accumulation: To keep your hearing aids functioning properly, be certain to dry your ears completely 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 reduce bacteria growth caused by heat and sweat.
- Eliminate Debris: Inspect your devices frequently for dust, dirt, or earwax accumulation and clean accordingly. Regular cleanings performed by your hearing professional every couple of months can help prevent long-term harm.
- Proper Storage: Keep your hearing aids in a cool, dry place when not in use. Be sure to keep them away from sunlight and 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, be certain to contact your hearing specialist without hesitation. They are able to perform vital upkeep 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 a time for creating lasting experiences, not for stressing about your hearing devices. With mindful care and a few easy precautions, your devices can handle the heat, moisture, and outdoor elements, letting you enjoy every conversation, bird song, and splash with crystal-clear sound.
If you’re unsure about the best way to protect your hearing aids or need professional upkeep, schedule an appointment today. Enjoy your summer to the fullest, knowing your hearing aids are ready for any adventure.