Summer is a season full of adventure, outdoor fun, and memorable times. Your hearing aids are imperative for staying connected as you engage in activities like chilling by the pool, going to summer music events, exploring hiking paths, or hosting backyard get-togethers. However, warm weather and outside environments bring distinct obstacles for hearing aid users. Ensuring your devices function smoothly throughout the warmer months requires a solid understanding of appropriate maintenance and upkeep techniques specifically adapted for the summer season.
Summer difficulties encountered by individuals who use hearing aids
The changing seasons can present distinct difficulties for people who use hearing aids, with the hot and humid weather of summer being particularly harmful to the proper functioning of these devices. Typical summer issues to look out for:
Moisture and humidity
Sweat, rain, and water activities increase moisture exposure for hearing aids. Extreme moisture levels have the ability to penetrate delicate electronic components, which may result in operational issues or rusting. Exposure to even minor humidity within your devices can compromise audio performance or lead to irreversible damage.
Wind and outside elements
Powerful winds can cause hearing aids to become loose in your ears or introduce particles like dust, sand, and debris into fragile areas, posing more than just a slight inconvenience. Outside activities like gardening, beach outings, or sports can subject your hearing aids to dirt particles that hinder their performance.
Sweltering temperatures and UV rays
Keeping hearing aids in direct sunlight or hot environments, including a car dashboard, can cause overheating, battery drainage, or warping of plastic components. Extreme heat accelerates wear and tear and reduces device longevity.
Summer guidelines for protecting your hearing aids
With a few sensible practices, you can keep your hearing aids safe, dry, and working at their best, no matter what your summer plans are.
1. Shield your hearing aids from water
- Pre-Water Precautions: It’s important to remove your hearing aids before participating in any aquatic activities, such as swimming or showering, to avoid damage from water exposure. To stop water from entering into your ears, consider using swim caps or waterproof earplugs.
- After being exposed to moisture, be certain to gently dry your devices using a soft microfiber cloth. Never use heat sources like hair dryers to dry them.
- 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 dry out completely.
2. Manage sweat and physical activity
- Wear Sweatbands or Headbands: These absorb excess sweat and safeguard both your ears and hearing aids during exercise or doing outside chores.
- Keep Ears Clean and Dry: Regularly dry your ears thoroughly before reinserting hearing aids to avoid moisture transfer.
3. Ensure a sanitary environment
- Daily Maintenance: To avoid bacterial buildup triggered by moisture and body heat, incorporate a daily cleaning routine of gently wiping your hearing aids with specialized disinfectant wipes made for electronic devices and hearing instruments.
- Regularly Check and Clean Your Devices: It’s important to periodically inspect your devices for any build-up of debris, including dust, dirt, or earwax, and take the required measures to eliminate it. Routine cleanings performed by your hearing professional every couple of months can help prevent long-term damage.
- Proper Storage: Keep your hearing aids in a cool, dry spot when not in use. Refrain from leaving them exposed to sunlight or high temperatures.
4. Keep an eye on device operation and speak with a professional for assistance
If you detect differences in how well you hear, any noises coming from your hearing device, or how long the battery lasts in the warmer season, be certain to contact your hearing specialist without hesitation. They are able to conduct vital maintenance or repairs in order to ensure that your hearing aids work properly.
Take pleasure in a stress-free summer with well-cared-for hearing aids
Summer is a time for creating lasting experiences, not for worrying about your hearing devices. With mindful care and a few easy preventative measures, 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 safeguard your hearing aids or need professional maintenance, schedule an appointment today. Make the most of your summer with the confidence that your hearing aids can keep up with every thrilling experience.