Summer is a season filled with 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 get-togethers. However, warm weather and outside environments bring unique challenges for hearing aid users. 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.
Common summer obstacles for hearing aid users
The changing seasons can present distinct challenges for people who use hearing aids, with the hot and humid weather of summer being especially harmful to the proper functioning of these devices. Common summer problems to look out for:
Moisture and humidity
Sweat, rain, and water activities increase moisture exposure for hearing aids. Excessive moisture levels have the ability to infiltrate delicate electronic components, which might lead to operational issues or rusting. Exposure to even minimal humidity inside your devices can jeopardize audio effectiveness or lead to irreversible damage.
Wind and outdoor elements
Powerful winds can cause hearing aids to become loose in your ears or introduce particles like dust, sand, and debris into delicate areas, posing more than just a slight inconvenience. Participating in outdoor pursuits such as gardening, visiting the beach, or playing sports may expose your hearing aids to dirt and debris that can impact how well they function.
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 decreases the longevity of devices.
Summer tips for safeguarding your hearing aids
With a few practical habits, you can keep your hearing aids secure, dry, and working at their best, regardless of your summer plans are.
1. Protect your hearing aids against water
- Take them out Before Swimming or Showering: Always take out your hearing aids before swimming, showering, or any water exposure. To prevent water from entering into your ears, consider using swim caps or waterproof earplugs.
- Dry After Exposure: Use a soft microfiber cloth to carefully wipe your devices if they get wet. Never utilize heat sources like hair dryers to dry them.
- Air Out Overnight: Open the battery compartments and store hearing aids in a drying container or dehumidifier at night to prevent moisture accumulation.
2. Manage sweat and physical activity
- Think about wearing sweatbands or headbands to soak up excess sweat and shield your ears and hearing devices while exercising or doing tasks outside.
- Prevent Moisture Accumulation: To keep your hearing aids working effectively, be certain to dry your ears thoroughly after showering or bathing before putting them back in.
3. Ensure a hygienic environment
- Regular Maintenance: To prevent bacterial buildup triggered by moisture and body heat, apply a day-to-day cleaning habit of gently wiping your hearing aids with specialized disinfectant wipes suitable for electronic devices and hearing instruments.
- Routinely Check and Clean Your Devices: It’s essential to periodically inspect your devices for any build-up of debris, including dust, dirt, or earwax, and take the necessary steps to remove it. Expert cleanings by your hearing specialist every few months can avoid long-term damage.
- Don’t forget to put your hearing aids in a cool, dry area when they are not being used. Make sure to keep them away from sunlight and high temperatures.
4. Keep an eye on device performance and consult a professional for help
If you detect differences in how well you hear, any sounds coming from your hearing device, or how long the battery lasts in the hotter season, be certain to reach out to your hearing specialist without hesitation. They can carry out required upkeep or repairs to keep your hearing aids functioning smoothly.
Have a hassle-free summer with well-maintained hearing aids
Summer is meant for creating memories, not for worrying about your hearing aids. By being attentive and taking simple steps to protect your devices, you can ensure they can withstand hot temperatures, moisture, and outdoor conditions. This will allow you to enjoy clear sound while experiencing conversations, bird songs, and water splashes.
For professional guidance on protecting your hearing aids or to arrange a thorough check-up, book a consultation with a specialist at your earliest convenience. Enjoy your summer to the fullest, with confidence that your hearing aids are ready for any adventure.