According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, hearing aids could benefit as many as 28.8 million U.S. adults.[1] Your hearing aids are helpful tools that help you connect to the people in your life. Proper care through the changing seasons will ensure you get the greatest possible benefits from your devices. For summer, that means protecting your devices from moisture and heat damage.
Protecting Against Moisture Damage
If you’re going for a swim at The Wedgewood Club or heading out for a beach day, take the following precautions to prevent hearing aid damage:
- Store your hearing aids. Before you dive in, place your hearing aids in their case, preferably in a bag away from the water.
- Dry off. When you get out of the water, dry your hair and ears completely before putting your hearing aids back in.
- Use a dehumidifier. If you get your devices wet or spend a long day near the water, place them in an electric hearing aid dehumidifier or a drying jar filled with desiccant beads. Quick action to remove moisture will prevent unnecessary damage.
Water can damage the delicate internal circuitry of your hearing aids. Taking the above precautions will help ensure your devices’ safety during your summer pool days.
Protecting Against Heat Damage
Excess heat can also damage your devices. Leaving your hearing aids to bake in your hot car, windowsill or directly in the sun is a fast track to warped casing or damaged circuitry. Instead, keep your hearing aids on your person or in a bag out of direct sunlight when you’re on the move, and stored in a cool, dry place when you’re at home.
In addition to taking precautions against heat and water damage, you should clean your hearing aids nightly and watch for signs of damage, such as cracking, distorted sound or warped parts.
If you notice any of the above signs of hearing aid damage, reach out to our specialists at Massachusetts Hearing Group. We can examine your devices and either clean and repair them in-office or send them to the manufacturer for more complex repairs. Call our office to schedule your service appointment.
[1] National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders. (2024). Quick statistics about hearing, balance, & dizziness. National Institutes of Health. https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/statistics/quick-statistics-hearing