Summer is a season filled with adventure, outdoor fun, and memorable moments. Whether you’re hanging out by the pool, going to summer concerts, hiking trails, or simply enjoying backyard barbecues, your hearing aids play a crucial part in keeping you connected. But, warm weather and outdoor environments bring unique obstacles for hearing aid users. Guaranteeing your devices operate smoothly throughout the warmer months requires a strong grasp of proper maintenance and upkeep techniques specifically adapted for the summer season.
Common summer obstacles for hearing aid users
The changing seasons can pose unique challenges for those who use hearing aids, with the hot and humid weather of summer being especially harmful to the effective functioning of these devices. Here are a few typical problems you might encounter during the summer months:
Moisture and humidity
Exposure to moisture from activities involving water, rain, or excessive sweating can present a threat to hearing aids. Extreme moisture levels have the ability to penetrate sensitive electronic components, which may lead to operational issues or rusting. Even small amounts of moisture within your devices can affect sound quality or damage them permanently.
Wind and outside elements
Strong breezes aren’t just an aggravation, they can dislodge hearing aids from your ears or introduce dust, sand, and debris into sensitive parts. Participating in outside pursuits such as gardening, visiting the beach, or playing sports may expose your hearing aids to dirt and debris that can affect how well they work.
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 warping of plastic components. Intense heat accelerates wear and tear and reduces the longevity of devices.
Tips to protect your hearing aids all summer long
By embracing a handful of helpful habits, you can ensure that your hearing aids remain secure, moisture-free, and working efficiently throughout the summer, no matter what your activities.
1. Shield your hearing aids from water
- Pre-Water Precautions: It’s essential to take out your hearing aids before engaging in any aquatic activities, including swimming or showering, to avoid damage from water exposure. To stop water from getting into your ears, consider using swim caps or waterproof earplugs.
- Dry After Exposure: Use a soft microfiber cloth to carefully wipe your devices if they get wet. Avoid using heat-producing devices like hair dryers for drying purposes.
- Air Out Overnight: Open the battery compartments and keep hearing aids in a drying container or dehumidifier at night to prevent moisture accumulation.
2. Control sweating during exercise
- Consider wearing sweatbands or headbands to soak up extra sweat and shield your ears and hearing devices while exercising or doing work outside.
- Keep Ears Clean and Dry: Routinely dry your ears thoroughly before reinserting hearing aids to prevent moisture transfer.
3. Ensure a hygienic environment
- Regular Maintenance: To prevent bacterial buildup caused by moisture and body heat, incorporate a daily cleaning routine of gently wiping your hearing aids with specialized disinfectant wipes suitable for electronic devices and hearing instruments.
- Routinely Check and Clean Your Devices: It’s important to periodically inspect your devices for any build-up of debris, including dust, dirt, or earwax, and take the required steps to remove it. Routine cleanings performed by your hearing professional every couple of months can help prevent long-term harm.
- Don’t forget to put your hearing aids in a cool, dry area when they are not being used. Make sure to keep them away from sunlight and high temperatures.
4. Monitor device function and seek professional help
If you detect any changes in sound quality, feedback, or battery life 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 functioning efficiently.
Enjoy a stress-free summer with well-cared-for hearing aids
Summer is a time for forging long lasting experiences, not for worrying about your hearing devices. With mindful care and a few simple precautions, your devices can handle the heat, moisture, and outdoor elements, letting you experience every conversation, bird song, and splash with crystal-clear sound.
If you’re not sure about the best way to protect your hearing aids or need professional maintenance, make an appointment today. Enjoy your summer to the fullest, knowing your hearing aids are ready for any adventure.
