Summer is a season filled with adventure, outdoor fun, and memorable times. Your hearing aids are imperative for staying connected as you engage in activities like lounging by the pool, going to summer music events, exploring hiking paths, or hosting backyard get-togethers. Warmer temperatures and outside settings can present various difficulties for individuals who depend on hearing aids. Guaranteeing your devices function smoothly throughout the warmer months requires a strong understanding of proper maintenance and upkeep techniques especially tailored for the summer season.
Summer difficulties faced by people with hearing aids
The changing seasons can present distinct challenges for those who use hearing aids, with the hot and humid weather of summer being particularly harmful to the proper functioning of these devices. Here are some typical problems you may encounter during the summer months:
Moisture and humidity
Exposure to moisture from activities involving water, rain, or excessive sweating can pose a threat to hearing aids. High humidity levels can seep into fragile electronic components, potentially creating malfunctions or oxidation. Exposure to even minimal humidity within your devices can compromise audio effectiveness or lead to irreversible damage.
Wind and outdoor elements
Strong 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. Outdoor activities like gardening, beach trips, or sports can subject your hearing aids to dirt particles that hinder their performance.
Heat and sun exposure
Leaving hearing aids in direct sunlight or hot environments, such as a car dashboard, can cause overheating, battery drainage, or warping of plastic components. Extreme heat speeds up wear and tear and reduces the lifespan of devices.
Tips to safeguard your hearing aids all summer long
By embracing a handful of helpful habits, you can ensure that your hearing aids remain secure, moisture-free, and working optimally throughout the summer, no matter what your activities.
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 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 buildup.
2. Control perspiration during exercise
- Think about using sweatbands or headbands to absorb extra sweat and shield your ears and hearing devices while working out or doing work outside.
- Keep Ears Clean and Dry: Regularly dry your ears thoroughly before reinserting hearing aids to prevent moisture transfer.
3. Ensure a sanitary environment
- Regular Cleaning Routine: Clean your hearing aids every day with disinfectant wipes made for electronics or hearing devices to reduce bacteria growth due to heat and sweat.
- Regularly Check and Clean Your Devices: It’s essential to periodically examine your devices for any build-up of debris, including dust, dirt, or earwax, and take the required steps to remove it. Routine cleanings performed by your hearing professional every couple of months can help prevent permanent harm.
- Remember to keep your hearing aids in a cool, dry location when they are not being used. Make sure to keep them away from sunlight and high temperatures.
4. Keep an eye on device function and seek professional help
If you experience differences 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 reach out to your hearing specialist without delay. They are able to perform vital maintenance or repairs in order to ensure that your hearing aids function properly.
Take pleasure in a worry-free summer with well-cared-for hearing aids
Summer is meant for creating memories, not for stressing about your hearing aids. By being attentive and taking basic 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 discussions, 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. Enjoy your summer to the fullest, knowing your hearing aids are ready for any adventure.