Summertime is here, which means long leisurely days of soaking up the sun and partaking in outdoor activities. It is a special time of year that we look forward to eagerly, but for wearers of hearing aids, this balmy season can pose some problems.
When it comes to hearing aids, sweat, water, condensation and sharp temperature changes can all result in damage and prevent these important devices from functioning properly. The last thing you want at that garden party or family BBQ is to have your conversations disrupted by an inconsistent sound signal, distortions, or a failing battery. Let’s take a look at a few good rules of thumb for keeping your hearing aids in optimal condition while enjoying the hot season.
1. Check weather conditions before heading out.
As not all hearing aids are water-resistant or waterproof, it is important that you take steps to keep them dry. Moisture can short the electronics, weaken the batteries, and corrode the components of these devices, which are essentially tiny computers. Taking a look at the weather forecast can help you prepare for a summer storm by bringing an umbrella, and for extra protection, a rain hat. Don’t forget a safe storage case for your hearing aids, in the event you must remove them.
2. Choose the cooler part of the day for exercise.
A substantial amount of heat escapes through the ears, and hearing aids–particularly those that sit behind the ears–are likely to become damp with sweat and stay that way for an extended period of time. If you know you are going to be exercising outside for a long period of time, you may even consider removing your hearing aids, some experts suggest. There are also small sock-shaped sweatbands that can slip over your hearing devices and help keep them dry.
3. Store hearing aids in a cool, dry place when not wearing them.
Keep them in a protective case and out of direct sunlight. Leaving your hearing aids in your hot, parked car (in the glove compartment or on the dashboard for example) could result in serious damage. At night, open the battery door of the hearing aid to allow fresh, dry air to circulate through. Invest in a dehumidifier to ensure that your hearing aids are moisture-free.
4. Take care when applying sunscreen and insect repellent.
This sticky stuff, while important, can seep into and damage the internal components of your hearing devices. Take out your hearing aids before applying sunscreen, and make sure it is thoroughly rubbed in before putting them back in. The same goes for insect repellent, whether in spray or lotion form.
5. Don’t forget to take your hearing aids out before taking a dip!
Many people choose to leave their hearing aids at home when going to the beach to avoid the problems caused by sand and wind. But wearing hearing aids at a pool is easier, and these devices can certainly help with understanding poolside conversations. The most important tip for protecting your hearing aids at the pool: don’t jump in without taking them out! Bringing a brightly-colored container with a tight-fitting lid and keeping it somewhere in sight will remind you to take your hearing aids out.
6. Taking care of a wet hearing aid.
What if you follow all of these tips and your hearing aids still get wet? Sweat happens, as do poolside splashes, and it may not be completely possible to protect your hearing aid from all moisture. If you find yourself with a wet hearing aid, take it out and turn off the battery. Dry it very gently with a towel or a special dryer for hearing aids–using a hair dryer is not recommended. Putting your hearing aid into a dehumidifying storage case for a few hours is a good idea, even if it seems to be working normally after you dry it off. If you don’t have a dehumidifier, place your devices into a bag of uncooked rice, just as you would with a wet computer. If you experience problems with your hearing aids after they become wet, get in touch with your audiologist.
7. Hearing aids and summer travel.
If you are planning on hitting the road with friends or taking that long-awaited summer vacation, there are few steps that will help you keep track of your hearing aids while on the move. A lightweight lanyard with a case worn around the neck can attach your devices to your clothes and help you avoid losing them. Make sure your name and contact information are clearly marked on your hearing aid case, so they can be easily returned if lost or left behind while travelling.