Summer is a season full of adventure, outdoor fun, and memorable times. Your hearing aids are essential for staying connected as you take part in activities like lounging by the pool, going to summer music events, exploring hiking paths, or hosting backyard cookouts. Warmer temperatures and outdoor settings can pose distinct complications for individuals who depend on hearing aids. Ensuring your devices function smoothly throughout the warmer months requires a strong understanding of proper maintenance and upkeep techniques specifically tailored for the summer season.
Summer challenges faced by people who use hearing aids
Each season presents its own challenges for hearing aid users, and summer’s warm, frequently humid conditions can put your devices in jeopardy. Common summer issues to look out for:
Humidity and moisture
Sweat, rain, and water activities raise moisture exposure for hearing aids. Extreme moisture levels have the ability to infiltrate sensitive electronic parts, which may result in operational problems or rusting. Even small amounts of moisture inside your devices can impact sound quality or damage them permanently.
Outside elements and wind
Strong breezes aren’t just an aggravation, they can dislodge hearing aids from your ears or introduce dust, sand, and debris into sensitive parts. Participating in outside pursuits including gardening, visiting the beach, or playing sports might expose 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 result in overheating, decreased battery life, or melting of plastic parts. Extreme heat accelerates wear and tear and reduces the lifespan of devices.
Summer tips for safeguarding your hearing aids
With a few practical practices, you can keep your hearing aids safe, dry, and functioning at their best, no matter what your summer plans are.
1. Safeguard your hearing aids from water
- Take them out Before Swimming or Showering: Always take out 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. Never utilize heat sources like hair dryers to dry them.
- To decrease moisture build-up, leave the battery compartments open and store the hearing aids in a drying case or dehumidifying device for several hours or overnight, allowing them to air out completely.
2. Manage sweat and physical activity
- Consider wearing sweatbands or headbands to absorb excess sweat and shield your ears and hearing devices while working out or doing tasks outside.
- Avoid Moisture Accumulation: To keep your hearing aids functioning effectively, make sure to dry your ears thoroughly after showering or bathing before putting them back in.
3. Ensure a sanitary environment
- Daily Maintenance: To prevent bacterial buildup triggered by moisture and body heat, incorporate a day-to-day cleaning habit of gently wiping your hearing aids with specialized disinfectant wipes made for electronic devices and hearing instruments.
- Eliminate Debris: Examine your devices frequently for dust, dirt, or earwax accumulation and clean accordingly. Professional cleanings by your hearing specialist every few months can prevent long-term 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. Monitor device function and seek 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 warmer season, make sure 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 effectively.
Have a stress-free summer with well-maintained hearing aids
Summer is meant for making memories, not for worrying about your hearing aids. With attentive care and a few simple preventative measures, your devices can take on the heat, moisture, and outdoor elements, letting you experience 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, make an appointment today. Enjoy your summer to the fullest, with confidence that your hearing aids are ready for any adventure.