Summertime conjures up thoughts of barbecuing, boating, and the beach — any number of fun outdoor activities. But if you wear hearing aids, it is important to know that variables like heat, humidity and water can be problematic to hearing aid circuitry and performance. Still, with a little care and planning, your hearing aids will help ensure you enjoy all that summer has to offer.
Here are eight tips for optimizing the performance of your hearing aids during the summer months.
- Always store your hearing aids and batteries in a secure, cool, dry place. Avoid leaving them in the car or in direct sunlight where temperatures can skyrocket.
- Be diligent about using a dri-aid kit/humidifier to remove moisture from the hearing aids when they are not in your ears. Humidity, perspiration and condensation caused by temperature swings when going in and out of air-conditioned spaces can all impact proper hearing aid function. There are different options available (ask your hearing care professional to recommend one) — just remember not to put rechargeable hearing aids in a heated drying unit.
- Exposure to water can also be detrimental. Most hearing aids are water-resistant but not waterproof, so put your hearing aids in a waterproof container for protection when enjoying the beach, lake, pool or any time your ears may get wet. Also remember to dry your ears including your ear canals with nothing smaller than your finger before reinserting your hearing aids.
- Sunscreen and insect repellant are important considerations for outdoor activities, but they can also impact hearing aid performance by clogging microphones and receivers. Apply lotions or sprays before putting your hearing aids in (and, of course, clean your hands first, too), then wipe your hearing aids down after you take them out.
- If you are planning to visit an amusement park, keep in mind that sudden, forceful movements can cause loose-fitting hearing aids to shift position and fall out. Remove and store them before taking on any thrill ride.
- While hearing aids are very durable, the circuity inside could be damaged by a fall. Help minimize tripping by wearing properly fitting, activity-appropriate footwear. Your hearing aids and your feet will thank you.
- Use the Self Check feature in the Thrive app to verify the integrity of the hearing aid receiver, microphone and circuit. If a problem is identified, solutions are available right in the app to help you remedy the issue quickly and easily.
- Contact your hearing professional if distortion, static or intermittency from your hearing aids persists.
Summer is the season for fun in the sun! And, if you keep these tips in mind, your hearing aids will ensure you never miss a moment of it!
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