You’re planning a really active summer. Plenty of beach time and lots of swimming for sure. You’ll enjoy some live entertainment, you’ll get plenty of exercise jogging or maybe playing some tennis, then it’s time to hit the grill. Your schedule is going to be quite full. So it’s essential that your hearing aids are ready.
Summer activities such as these can be tough on your hearing aids, but these little helpful devices can be protected without it halting your summer fun.
Obstacles of hearing aids in the summer
With hearing aids, each season will have unique difficulties. Climate and weather are the greatest challenges during the summer.
Summer-related obstacles could include:
- Dirt and debris: In the summer you’re very active. But when you go to the beach, there’s a good chance you might get some sand inside of your hearing aid, and that could cause problems.
- Moisture: In the summer, moisture is almost always present, whether from rain, sweat, swimming, or humidity. That’s a problem because moisture can be a major problem for hearing aids.
- Wind: A powerful enough wind can jerk and pull at your hearing aids. Depending on the environment, strong winds can also introduce dust and debris into your hearing aid.
Generally, it’s quite obvious why these issues are more widespread in the summer months: you tend to be outside more. And you’re more likely to experience 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 enhance your quality of life, to allow you to do more. Most people who use hearing aids will want to use them as much as they can, especially through the summer. Caring for your hearing aids by taking a few extra steps can make that happen.
Take actions to keep your hearing aids dry
Water will damage electronics and the more sophisticated the electronics, the worse the potential damage. Protect against moisture with these tips:
- Open the battery compartment on your hearing aids while you sleep and allow them to air dry. This will help counter damage caused by corrosion of the battery.
- Don’t swim while wearing your hearing aids. Beach day? Great! Don’t forget to remove your hearing aids before going into the water. Naturally, this is common sense. So the real danger is the wetness in your ears that remains after you go swimming. That’s why you should consider using a swim cap and earplugs when you go in the water. By doing this your ears and thus your hearing aids will stay nice and dry.
- Thoroughly dry your ears. Drying your ears completely will help avoid the accidental transference of moisture from your ears to your hearing aids.
- Have a microfiber towel nearby. You can use this to periodically dry your hearing aids. This stops wetness from building up when you aren’t watching.
- Wear a sweatband when you’re working out. This will help keep sweat out of your ears (and away from your hearing aids).
Take steps to keep your hearing aids clean
The growth of bacteria is quickened by heat and moisture. In the summer especially, take measures to keep your hearing aids clean. Here are some tips:
- Watch for the long-term build-up of debris. As you’re disinfecting your hearing aids, you can also take the time to clear away any debris that may have built-up. Eventually, it’s most likely also a good plan to have your hearing aids professionally cleaned.
- Routinely disinfect your hearing aids. Specialized antibacterial wipes are made for this.
- Store your hearing aids in a spot that’s dry and cool. Hearing aids, as a rule, don’t do well in the direct sunlight. So don’t put them on your dashboard on a hot summer day. Alternatively, when you’re not wearing them, store your hearing aids in a dry, cool place.
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. There’s a way to keep your hearing aids dry and in good working order whether you’re hiking, swimming, or just taking an evening stroll around your neighborhood.