Summer is a busy time of year, with many people participating in more social activities, spending time outdoors and making the most of longer days. If this is your first summer with hearing aids, it's important to consider some of the challenges you might face during the dog days of summer.
"Summer is a great time to get out and spend time with friends and family, but it's important to be mindful of protecting your hearing aids. With a little extra planning and consideration, those adjusting to hearing aids can enjoy summer to the fullest while still actively using and keeping their hearing aids safe," says Nanaimo Hearing Clinic owner, Hanan Merrill.
The top three risks to hearing aids in the summer
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Changes in lifestyle and activity: If this is your first summer wearing hearing aids, it can be tricky to navigate your favourite activities with them. Many people are more active during the warmer weather – hiking, swimming and staying out late. It can be easy to forget to charge them or to take them off while swimming.
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Moisture: Between perspiration, lakes, pools, and trips to the beach, there are plenty of opportunities for moisture to get into your hearing aids and potentially cause damage. Make sure you use drying equipment every night to ensure your hearing aids have ample opportunity to dry out between daytime adventures.
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Developing 'bad habits': It's easy to think, "Rather than risking damage, I just won't wear my hearing aids to the pool or while at the lake." However, falling out of the habit of wearing your hearing aids every day can make it tricky to remember them during normal day-to-day activities. Instead, try getting into the habit of carrying a protective case and storing them safely while out and about during the summer.
"The best way to mitigate these summer risks while still enjoying fun in the sun is to simply be mindful," Merrill says. "When applying sunscreen or bug spray, be sure to take your hearing aids out first. When heading to the beach, bring a proper protective case for your hearing aids instead of risking damage by tossing them in your pocket or purse. Be careful when taking hats on and off. Think ahead about the charging needs when going on longer trips and take the time to properly dry them out overnight. By simply being mindful of your hearing aids, you can continue to use them safely throughout the summer months."
Lastly, Merrill suggests double-checking what type of insurance you have on your hearing aids and considering additional protection so you can rest at ease while enjoying the best that summer has to offer.
For more hearing tips or to book an appointment with the Nanaimo Hearing Clinic, call 250-585-4100 or visit nanaimohearingclinic.com/contact. Find Nanaimo Hearing Clinic at 501-5800 Turner Rd. in Cactus Club Plaza, Nanaimo.