It’s getting hot outside. Whether you prefer to spend your sunny days hiking along the Barmeyer Trail, driving out to the lake or relaxing with a good book, make hearing aid care a crucial part of your summer routine.
How Does Hearing Aid Care Change in the Summer?
Approximately 28.8 million U.S. adults could benefit from the use of hearing aids. These small but technologically advanced devices amplify speech sounds and provide better background awareness to people with hearing loss. However, like any electronic device, hearing aids are vulnerable to high temperatures. Exposure to heat can cause the circuits to malfunction, casings to warp and batteries to degrade, leading to distorted sound and reduced lifespan.
Caring for your hearing aids in the heat doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the amplified sound they offer. Let’s look at a few precautionary tips to care for your devices this summer.
Clean Your Devices Regularly
Bringing your hearing aids on a summer hike allows you to fully enjoy the sounds of nature, like the bubbling creeks and rustling leaves. However, it can also expose your devices to sweat and dirt. To keep your hearing aids safe and well-maintained, clean them daily. Use a hearing aid kit with a soft cloth and brush to remove any debris they may have picked up during your summer adventures.
Don’t Leave Hearing Aids in Your Car
Even on days that don’t feel extremely hot, the inside of a parked car, especially in the sun, can reach dangerous temperatures, potentially damaging your hearing aids. Always take your hearing aids with you, no matter how short your absence.
Be Careful on Sunny Days
Spending too long in the direct sun can cause your hearing aids to overheat. If you’re going out for a fun sunny day, consider employing these two tips:
- Store your devices in a case or bag out of direct sunlight
- Use an umbrella or wide-brimmed hat on hikes or beach days
By practicing daily cleaning and keeping your devices out of the car and sun, you can enjoy the benefits hearing aids offer for years to come. Contact Western Montana Hearing and Speech for questions regarding further hearing aid care.