Summer is a season full of 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 cookouts. But, warm weather and outside environments bring unique obstacles for hearing aid users. Guaranteeing your devices operate properly throughout the warmer months requires a solid understanding of proper maintenance and upkeep techniques especially adapted for the summer season.
Common summer challenges for hearing aid users
The changing seasons can pose unique challenges for those who use hearing aids, with the hot and humid weather of summer being particularly hazardous to the effective functioning of these devices. Typical summer problems to look out for:
Moisture and humidity
Exposure to moisture from activities involving water, rain, or excessive sweating can pose a risk to hearing aids. Extreme moisture levels have the ability to infiltrate sensitive electronic parts, which may result in operational issues or rusting. Even small amounts of moisture within your devices can impact sound quality or damage them permanently.
Outside elements and wind
Strong breezes aren’t just an annoyance, they can displace hearing aids from your ears or introduce dust, dirt, and debris into sensitive parts. Engaging in outside pursuits including gardening, visiting the beach, or playing sports may subject your hearing aids to dust and debris that can affect how well they function.
Sweltering temperatures and UV rays
Leaving hearing aids in direct sunlight or hot environments, including a car dashboard, can cause overheating, battery drainage, or melting of plastic components. Excessive heat accelerates wear and tear and reduces device longevity.
Summer guidelines for protecting your hearing aids
With a few practical 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
- Pre-Water Precautions: It’s important to take out your hearing aids prior to participating in any aquatic activities, including swimming or showering, to prevent damage from water exposure. Utilize 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. Never utilize heat sources like hair dryers to dry them.
- To reduce moisture accumulation, leave the battery compartments open and place the hearing aids in a drying case or dehumidifying device for several hours or overnight, allowing them to air out thoroughly.
2. Control sweating during exercise
- Use Sweatbands or Headbands: These soak up excess sweat and protect both your ears and hearing aids while exercising or doing outside chores.
- Keep Ears Clean and Dry: Regularly dry your ears thoroughly before reinserting hearing aids to avoid moisture transfer.
3. Maintain cleanliness and hygiene
- Regular Maintenance: To prevent bacterial buildup caused by moisture and body heat, incorporate a day-to-day cleaning habit of gently wiping your hearing aids with specialized disinfectant wipes suitable for electronic devices and hearing instruments.
- Remove Debris: Inspect your devices often for dust, dirt, or earwax buildup and clean accordingly. Regular cleanings carried out by your hearing professional every couple of months can help avoid permanent damage.
- Appropriate Storage: Keep your hearing aids in a cool, dry place when not in use. Refrain from leaving them exposed to sunlight or high temperatures.
4. Keep an eye on device performance and consult a professional for help
If you detect 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 can perform necessary maintenance or repairs to keep your hearing aids working efficiently.
Have a stress-free summer with well-maintained hearing aids
Summer is a time for creating lasting experiences, not for worrying about your hearing devices. By being attentive and taking basic steps to safeguard your devices, you can ensure they can endure hot temperatures, moisture, and outdoor conditions. This will allow you to enjoy clear sound while experiencing conversations, bird songs, and water splashes.
If you’re not sure about the best way to protect your hearing aids or need professional upkeep, schedule an appointment today. Make the most of your summer with the peace of mind that your hearing aids can keep up with every thrilling experience.