You have an active summer planned. You’re definitely going to hit the beach and maybe go for a swim. You’ll do some regular running and then maybe attend a baseball game or two before going home to up some delicious dinner. Your schedule is going to be pretty full. So it’s important that your hearing aids are prepared.
All of these activities can present unique risks for your hearing aids, but there are some easy ways you can protect these little, helpful devices and enjoy your summer as well.
Challenges of hearing aids during the summer
With hearing aids, each season will have unique obstacles. Climate and weather are the greatest obstacles in the summer.
Summer-related challenges might include:
- Dirt and debris: During the summer you’re actually active. But when you go to the beach, there’s a good chance you may get some sand in your hearing aid, and that could cause problems.
- Wind: Your hearing aids can be pushed and pulled around by the wind if it’s powerful enough. Depending on the climate, powerful winds can also introduce dust and debris into your hearing aid.
- Moisture: Whether it’s from humidity, swimming, rain, or simply sweat, moisture is just about always present in the summer. That’s a problem because moisture can be a huge issue for hearing aids.
For the most part, it’s pretty apparent why these issues are more widespread during the summer months: you’re usually outdoors 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 peak performance through the summer
Your hearing aids are made to enhance your quality of life, to make it possible for you to do more. Most people who wear hearing aids will want to use them as much as possible, particularly during the summer. Taking care of your hearing aids by taking a few additional steps can make that happen.
Keeping your hearing aids dry
Water will wreak havoc on electronics and the more state-of-the-art the electronics, the worse the possible damage. There are a couple of ways you can protect against moisture:
- Keep a microfiber towel handy. That way, you can dry out your hearing aids all through the day. This stops moisture from accumulating when you aren’t paying attention.
- Don’t bring your hearing aids into the water. Beach day? Nice! Don’t forget to take out your hearing aids before going into the water. Naturally, the majority of people already do this. So lingering moisture in your ears after you get out of the water is the real concern. That’s why you should consider wearing a swim cap and earplugs when you go swimming. This can help keep your ears (and thus your hearing aids) nice and dry.
- Air dry your hearing aids at night by opening the battery compartment. This will help counter damage caused by corrosion of the battery.
- Dry your ears thoroughly. Drying your ears thoroughly will help avoid the accidental transfer of moisture from your ears to your hearing aids.
- Use a headband when you’re exercising. Your hearing aids will stay nice and dry because sweat can’t reach them.
Take steps to keep your hearing aids clean
The growth of bacteria is fueled by heat and moisture. During the summer especially, take steps to keep your hearing aids clean. Here are some tips:
- Watch for the long-term accumulation of debris. As you’re disinfecting your hearing aids, you can also take the time to clear away any debris that might have built-up. Sometimes, a professional cleaning is needed.
- Store your hearing aids in a spot that’s dry and cool. Hearing aids, generally speaking, don’t handle direct sunlight very well. So keep them off of your dashboard when it’s hot. Alternatively, make sure they’re nestled away somewhere cool and dry when you aren’t wearing them.
- Routinely disinfect your hearing aids. Specialized antibacterial wipes are made for this.
Stay active, remain happy, keep hearing
Your hearing aids are designed to accompany you all through your life, and that’s certainly true of the summer months. So whether you’re planning on going for a swim in the lake, hiking up a mountain, or going for a walk around the neighborhood, there’s a way to ensure your hearing aids stay dry and keep working.
