Summer is right around the corner and with it plenty of fun in the sun! From splashing at the beach to walking mountain trails to sunset dinners in the city and everything in between, the longer days of summer offer plenty of opportunities to play. What they also bring is warmer weather, and that doesn’t always mix well with hearing aids.
Your Hearing Aid Investment
There is no doubt that your hearing aids have been an investment in your hearing health. You invested time to have a hearing evaluation. You invested time and money into selecting and purchasing the perfect pair for your needs. You invested time in adjustments to ensure they fit comfortably and help you hear at optimal levels. You even take time to care for them daily and pay for replacement batteries on occasion. During the summer months when the heat is on, it’s even more important to protect your investment with a little extra care for your hearing aids.
When the temperature and humidity rise this summer, follow these tips to keep those powerful little hearing devices functioning well!
- Take your time with sunscreen – Chances are you’ll be out enjoying the longer days and protecting your skin with sunscreen. When you do, remove hearing aids, then make sure the sunscreen you apply on and around your ears has a chance to dry before you reinsert your hearing aids. Still, wet sunscreen can damage the inner workings of your hearing aids.
- Keep hearing aids out of the water – If you are headed to the beach or the pool, be sure to keep a sealed container with you for storing hearing aids while you swim. These complex pieces of technology can quickly become damaged when exposed to water. In the case they do become wet, remove the battery and hand dry the hearing aid immediately. If you have a dehumidifier on hand, place the hearing aids in it. If not, use the tried and true phone trick of placing the hearing aids in uncooked rice. Schedule an appointment with your hearing healthcare professional to determine if any damage has been done or any adjustments need to be made.
- Special considerations in humid climates – In some areas, the summer months don’t just mean higher temperatures but also a jump in humidity. If this is the case for you, consider investing in a dehumidifier to help keep moisture from building up in your hearing aid during the sticky summer months. Also, be sure to regularly wipe down hearing aids during the day to keep damaging moisture at bay.
- Rethink your exercise routine – Exercising during cooler hours can be a smart move when you have hearing aids, especially during the summer. Sweat is a good thing, but too much of it can get into hearing aids and create a problem.
Savor The Summer
Jump into summer with both feet with these hearing aid care tips in mind. Protecting them from the summer elements can also help you protect your investment in your hearing for years to come. We can help you care for your hearing aids with the regular adjustments, the right tools and expert tips for every season. Contact us today to set up an appointment to learn more.
