With summer in full swing, you may be making memories of lazy days picnicking in Morrison Park, nights rocking out at outdoor concerts and maybe a few days at the pool. As we wade further into the summer, take a minute to learn about a few hearing aid care tips to ensure your devices offer you clear hearing through the summer.
The Benefits of Hearing Aids
Approximately 28.8 million U.S. adults could benefit from the use of hearing aids. These tiny but advanced devices offer many benefits to your summer, including:
- Easier communication. Amplifying speech helps you stay connected with family and friends, making conversations clearer and more enjoyable.
- Improved safety. Better hearing increases your awareness of the world around you, allowing you to hear approaching vehicles or warning shouts.
- Enriched experiences. From the sounds of nature on a hike to music at a summer festival, hearing aids help you fully experience and enjoy your surroundings.
How Does Summer Heat Affect Hearing Aids?
While hearing aids offer many benefits, it is important to remember that they are electronic devices susceptible to high temperatures and water damage. High temperatures can cause circuit malfunctions, battery degradation and casing warping, leading to distorted sound and reduced lifespan. Excess sweat and dirt from a hot day may also lead to circuitry malfunction.
Taking care of your hearing aids in the heat doesn’t mean sacrificing the benefits they provide. Let’s look at a few tips to care for your devices in this sweltering heat.
Summer Care Tips
Your hearing aid care may differ based on your summer activities, but will likely include the following:
- Regular cleaning. Taking your hearing aids on a summer adventure lets you enjoy the natural sounds around you. However, with extra heat comes extra sweat and dirt. Clean your hearing aids daily using a soft cloth and brush to remove any debris picked up during your summer activities.
- Don’t leave hearing aids in your car. Even mild days can turn a parked car into an oven, leading to potential hearing aid damage. Carry your hearing aids with you, regardless of how short your absence is. Not only will this tip keep them safe, but it will allow you to experience their benefits everywhere you go.
- Be careful on sunny days. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause your hearing aids to overheat. Use an umbrella or wide-brimmed hat if you plan to spend time outdoors. If you’re going for a swim, place your devices in their case, out of direct sunlight.
Summer weather doesn’t need to leave your devices dirty and overheated. By cleaning them regularly and keeping them cool, you can enjoy your hearing aids to their fullest. Contact Lake Jackson ENT for more information on hearing aid care.
