You’re planning a really active summer. You’re certainly going to hit the beach and maybe go for a swim. You’ll do some regular jogging and then maybe take in a baseball game or two before heading home to up some tasty dinner. You’re going to be busy! And you want to ensure your hearing aids are up to the challenge.
All of these experiences can introduce unique challenges for your hearing aids, but there are a few simple ways you can protect these tiny, helpful devices and enjoy your summer too.
Summertime hearing aid challenges
Each season is going to introduce distinct difficulties with regards to your hearing aids. Climate and weather are the greatest obstacles in the summer.
Here are some summer related obstacles:
- Moisture: During the summer, moisture is nearly always a factor, whether from rain, sweat, swimming, or humidity. That’s problematic because moisture can be a major issue for hearing aids.
- Wind: Your hearing aids can be pushed and pulled around by the wind if it’s powerful enough. Depending on the climate, strong winds can also introduce dust and debris into your hearing aid.
- Dirt and debris: You’re active in the summer. But sand inside of your hearing aid, like beach sand, can result in issues.
Part of the reason why these issues are more likely to crop up during the summer is clear: you spend more time outside. And you’re more likely to encounter a surprise rain storm or a strong wind when you’re outdoors so often.
Keeping your hearing aids at optimum performance through the summer
Your hearing aids are made to improve your quality of life, to make it possible for you to do more. So throughout the summer, the majority of people want to wear their hearing aids as often as they can. This means doing a few extra things to care for the technology and make sure your hearing aids continue working.
Take measures to keep your hearing aids dry
Water will damage electronics and the more sophisticated the electronics, the worse the potential damage. Keep moisture at bay with these tips:
- Keep a microfiber towel handy. In that manner, you can dry your hearing aids throughout the day. In this way, you can prevent the accumulation of wetness.
- Don’t go swimming with your hearing aids in your ears. Beach day? Great! Don’t forget to take out your hearing aids before going into the water. Of course, most people already do this. So the real danger is the moisture in your ears that remains after you go swimming. Wearing a swim cap or earplugs when you’re swimming is a smart plan. By doing this your ears and thus your hearing aids will stay nice and dry.
- Open the battery compartment on your hearing aids while you sleep and allow them to air dry. This will help prevent damage caused by corrosion of the battery.
- When you’re doing something that will cause you to sweat, wear a sweatband. This will help keep sweat out of your ears (and away from your hearing aids).
- Thoroughly dry your ears. Make sure you aren’t accidentally transferring moisture from your ears to your hearing aids.
Routinely clean your hearing aids
The growth of bacteria is fueled by moisture and heat. During the summer particularly, take measures to keep your hearing aids clean. Here are some guidelines:
- Don’t let debris accumulate over time. You can take a little time to remove any debris on your hearing aids while you sanitize them. Sometimes, a professional cleaning is needed.
- Store your hearing aids in a spot that’s dry and cool. Hearing aids, generally speaking, don’t do well in the direct sunlight. So don’t store them on your dashboard on the hottest day of summer. Instead, make sure they’re tucked away somewhere cool and dry when you aren’t using them.
- Sanitize your hearing aids regularly. This can be accomplished with specially made antibacterial and disinfectant wipes.
Stay active, stay happy, keep hearing
Your hearing aids are made to help you throughout your life, and that’s definitely true of the summer months. There’s a way to keep your hearing aids dry and in good working order whether you’re hiking, swimming, or simply taking an evening stroll around your neighborhood.