As the crisp breeze of autumn rolls in, it’s time to prepare your hearing aids for the unique challenges of fall. Whether you’re planning a scenic hike through changing leaves or attending your favorite football game, proper maintenance ensures you won’t miss a sound. Let’s look at why hearing aids are important and some tips to help you maintain your devices as the season transitions.
Why Are Hearing Aids Important?
Approximately 28.8 million U.S. adults could benefit from hearing aids. Hearing aids are small but powerful devices that amplify sound, making it easier to understand conversations and stay aware of your surroundings. With your hearing aids, you can fully enjoy the crisp crunch of leaves, the whistle at halftime during a touch football game and the laughter of your children during pumpkin carving. To make sure you don’t miss out on any of these delightful autumn sounds, follow a few essential fall hearing aid care tips.
Tips for Fall Hearing Aid Care
Four important tips for fall hearing aid care include:
- Secure your hearing aids during outdoor activities. Fall is prime time for outdoor sports like flag football or soccer. While you’re busy on the field, the last thing you want is to lose or damage your hearing aids. Secure them with hearing aid clips or a lanyard, which attach your devices to your clothing, preventing accidental falls. If you don’t have clips, a headband or sweatband can also help keep them in place during physical activities.
- Prevent battery drain. Cooler weather can drain your hearing aid batteries faster than usual. To stay prepared, keep extra batteries on hand or carry a portable charger if your devices are rechargeable. This is especially important if you’re heading out for extended periods like camping trips or long hikes. Regularly check the battery level and consider switching to long-lasting batteries for added peace of mind.
- Protect against fall debris. Autumn brings vibrant foliage. But more leaves also means more dust, dirt and debris in the air. Whether you’re raking leaves or taking a stroll, particles can easily find their way into your hearing aids. To prevent buildup, use a soft, dry cloth and a specialized hearing aid cleaning tool to clean your devices daily. If you’re spending more time outdoors, consider investing in hearing aid covers that protect against environmental factors.
- Store your hearing aids properly. Condensation can become an issue as temperatures drop, especially when moving between chilly outdoors and warm indoor environments. To reduce moisture buildup, store your hearing aids in a dehumidifier overnight. This will help keep them dry and functioning. Avoid leaving them in cold environments, like a car overnight, to prevent exposure to temperature fluctuations.
By taking a few extra steps, you can ensure your hearing aids are ready for the fall season. For further advice or assistance, contact Augusta – Aiken ENT & Allergy to speak with one of our hearing aid specialists.