The summer months offer a wealth of stimulating experiences, thrilling outdoor activities, and wonderful experiences that create lifelong memories. Whether you’re hanging out by the pool, attending summer concerts, hiking trails, or just enjoying backyard barbecues, your hearing aids play a vital part in keeping you connected. But, warm weather and outdoor environments bring unique obstacles for hearing aid users. To make sure your devices keep working perfectly through the season, it’s important to understand how to care for them correctly during summer.
Summer challenges faced by individuals with hearing aids
The changing seasons can pose unique difficulties for those who use hearing aids, with the hot and humid weather of summer being particularly hazardous to the effective functioning of these devices. Common summer problems to look out for:
Humidity and moisture
Exposure to moisture from activities involving water, rain, or excessive sweating can present a risk to hearing aids. Extreme moisture levels have the ability to penetrate sensitive electronic components, which may lead to operational problems or rusting. Exposure to even minor humidity inside your devices can compromise audio effectiveness or cause permanent damage.
Outdoor elements and wind
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 aggravation. Engaging in outdoor pursuits including gardening, visiting the beach, or playing sports might expose your hearing aids to dirt and debris that can affect how well they function.
Sweltering temperatures and UV rays
Leaving hearing aids in direct sunlight or hot environments, such as a car dashboard, can cause overheating, battery drain, or melting of plastic components. Intense heat accelerates wear and tear and reduces the lifespan of devices.
Summer guidelines for protecting your hearing aids
By embracing a handful of useful routines, you can ensure that your hearing aids stay secure, moisture-free, and functioning efficiently throughout the summer, no matter what your activities.
1. Protect your hearing aids against water
- Take them out Before Swimming or Showering: Always remove 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, be certain to gently dry your devices using a soft microfiber cloth. 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 overnight to remove moisture accumulation.
2. Control sweating during exercise
- Consider using sweatbands or headbands to absorb extra sweat and shield your ears and hearing devices while exercising or doing work outside.
- Prevent Moisture Buildup: To keep your hearing aids working properly, make sure to dry your ears completely after showering or bathing before putting them back in.
3. Maintain cleanliness and hygiene
- Frequent Cleaning Routine: Clean your hearing aids every day with disinfectant wipes designed for electronics or hearing devices to decrease bacteria growth caused by heat and sweat.
- Regularly Check and Clean Your Devices: It’s essential to periodically examine your devices for any accumulation of debris, including dust, dirt, or earwax, and take the required steps to remove it. Expert cleanings by your hearing specialist every few months can prevent long-term damage.
- Appropriate Storage: Keep your hearing aids in a cool, dry spot when not in use. Make sure to keep them away from sunlight and high temperatures.
4. Keep an eye on device function and get professional help
If you notice any changes in sound quality, feedback, or battery drainage during summer months, don’t hesitate to consult your hearing care professional. They are able to conduct vital upkeep or repairs in order to ensure that your hearing aids work properly.
Enjoy a worry-free summer with well-cared-for hearing aids
Summer is meant for making memories, not for stressing about your hearing aids. By being attentive and taking simple 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 discussions, bird songs, and water splashes.
If you’re not sure about the best way to safeguard your hearing aids or need professional upkeep, schedule an appointment today. Make the most of your summer with the confidence that your hearing aids can keep up with every exciting experience.
