You have a lively summer planned. You’re certainly going to hit the beach and maybe go for a swim. You’ll take in some live entertainment, you’ll get plenty of exercise jogging or maybe playing some tennis, then it’s time to get to the grill. Your schedule is going to be rather full. And you want to make sure your hearing aids are up to the challenge.
Summer activities such as these can be tough on your hearing aids, but these little useful devices can be protected without it slowing your summer fun.
Summer hearing aid obstacles
Every season will introduce distinct obstacles when it comes to your hearing aids. Climate and weather are the greatest obstacles in the summer.
Summer-related obstacles may include:
- Wind: A powerful enough wind can jerk and yank at your hearing aids. Depending on the environment, strong winds can also introduce dust and debris into your hearing aid.
- Dirt and debris: In the summer you’re very active. But when you go to the beach, there’s a good chance you may get some sand inside of your hearing aid, and that might cause problems.
- Moisture: During the summer, moisture is nearly always a factor, whether from sweat, rain, swimming, or humidity. That’s problematic because moisture can be a huge problem for hearing aids.
Part of the reason why these problems are more likely to crop up in the summer is clear: you spend more time outside. And when you spend more time outside, you’re more likely to experience a strong gust of wind or a flash rainstorm.
How to keep your hearing aids working great all summer
Your hearing aids are made to improve your quality of life, to make it possible for you to do more. So over the course of the summer, most people want to wear their hearing aids as frequently as they can. Caring for your hearing aids by taking some extra steps can make that happen.
Keeping your hearing aids dry
Water will damage electronics and the more sophisticated the electronics, the worse the possible damage. There are several ways you can keep moisture at bay:
- Don’t bring your hearing aids in the water. Beach day? Sweet! Just take out your hearing aids first. Naturally, most individuals already do this. So lingering moisture in your ears after you get out of the water is the real issue. That’s why you should consider using a swim cap and earplugs when you go swimming. This can help keep your ears (and thus your hearing aids) quite dry.
- Open the battery compartment on your hearing aids at night and let them air dry. This will help prevent damage from corrosion of the battery.
- Have a microfiber towel handy. That way, you can dry your hearing aids all through the day. This stops wetness from building up when you aren’t watching.
- Wear a headband when you’re working out. Your hearing aids will stay nice and dry because moisture can’t reach them.
- Dry your ears thoroughly. Make sure you aren’t accidentally transferring moisture from your ears to your hearing aids.
Take measures to keep your hearing aids clean
The growth of bacteria is quickened by heat and moisture. So you should also take a few steps to ensure your hearing aids are remaining clean during the summer months. You can do the following:
- Routinely disinfect your hearing aids. This can be accomplished with specially made antibacterial and disinfectant wipes.
- Store your hearing aids in a dry, cool place. That’s because hearing aids (generally) don’t like exposure to heat and direct sunlight. So don’t put them on your dashboard on a hot summer day. Alternatively, make certain they’re tucked away someplace cool and dry when you aren’t using them.
- Don’t let debris accumulate over time. As you’re disinfecting your hearing aids, you can also take the time to clean out any debris that might have built-up. Sooner or later, it’s most likely also a good plan to have your hearing aids professionally cleaned.
Be happy, remain active, hear well
Your hearing aids will be there for you for a lifetime and they will enhance your summer months especially. So whether you’re planning on swimming in the lake, hiking over a mountain, or taking a walk around the neighborhood, there’s a way to ensure your hearing aids stay dry and keep working.