The summer months provide a wide range of stimulating experiences, thrilling outdoor activities, and wonderful experiences that create lifelong memories. Whether you’re spending time by the pool, attending summer concerts, hiking trails, or just enjoying backyard barbecues, your hearing aids play a vital role in keeping you connected. However, warm weather and outdoor environments bring distinct challenges for hearing aid users. Ensuring your devices operate smoothly throughout the warmer months requires a solid understanding of proper maintenance and upkeep techniques specifically tailored for the summer season.
Summer challenges faced by people with hearing aids
The changing seasons can pose unique challenges for those who use hearing aids, with the hot and humid weather of summer being particularly hazardous to the proper 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. High humidity levels can seep into delicate electronic components, potentially causing malfunctions or oxidation. Exposure to even minimal humidity within your devices can jeopardize audio effectiveness or cause irreversible damage.
Wind and outside elements
Strong breezes aren’t simply an aggravation, they can dislodge hearing aids from your ears or present dust, sand, and debris into sensitive parts. Engaging in outdoor pursuits including gardening, visiting the beach, or playing sports may subject your hearing aids to dirt and debris that can impact how well they function.
Sweltering temperatures and UV rays
Exposing hearing aids to direct sunlight or high temperatures, like keeping them on a car dashboard, can lead to overheating, decreased battery life, or distortion of plastic parts. Intense heat accelerates wear and tear and reduces the longevity of devices.
Summer tips for safeguarding your hearing aids
By adopting a handful of useful habits, you can ensure that your hearing aids stay secure, moisture-free, and working optimally throughout the summer, regardless of your activities.
1. Safeguard your hearing aids from water
- Pre-Water Precautions: It’s important to take out your hearing aids before engaging in any aquatic activities, including swimming or showering, to prevent damage from water exposure. Utilize 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.
- To decrease moisture build-up, leave the battery door open and store the hearing aids in a drying case or dehumidifying device for several hours or overnight, allowing them to air out thoroughly.
2. Deal with sweat and physical activity
- Think about using sweatbands or headbands to soak up excess sweat and shield your ears and hearing devices while working out or doing work outside.
- Prevent Moisture Buildup: To keep your hearing aids working properly, be certain to dry your ears thoroughly after showering or bathing before putting them back in.
3. Ensure a hygienic environment
- Frequent Cleaning Routine: Wipe your hearing aids every day with disinfectant wipes designed for electronics or hearing devices to decrease bacteria growth due to heat and sweat.
- Remove Debris: Inspect your devices frequently for dust, dirt, or earwax buildup and clean as necessary. Professional cleanings by your hearing specialist every few months can prevent long-term damage.
- Don’t forget 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. Monitor device function and get professional help
If you detect any changes in sound quality, feedback, or battery drainage during summer months, don’t hesitate to get in touch with your hearing care professional. They can perform necessary maintenance or repairs to keep your hearing aids working efficiently.
Enjoy a worry-free summer with well-cared-for hearing aids
Summer is meant for making memories, not for worrying about your hearing aids. By being mindful and taking basic 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 conversations, 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 thrilling experience.
