Hearing aids are a significant financial investment in your health and mental well-being. Not being able to hear as well as you once did or at all can be devastating, and hearing aids can play a massive part in helping you live your life to the fullest.
That being said, hearing aids are delicate pieces of technology, and while their capabilities are vast, they do need care and attention to help them perform at their best and not sustain damage. This post will explore the best ways to care for your hearing aids and keep them in the best condition for as long as possible.
Cleaning
When handling your hearing aids, it’s crucial to wash your hands before and after touching them. Failure to do so can transfer dirt or grime to the device, leading to a build-up that can affect its performance. Since your hearing will have been on or in your ear, you need to wash your hands afterward, too, as they can accumulate dirt from the environment throughout the day
Regular cleaning is a crucial part of maintaining your hearing aids. Ideally, you should clean them after each wear and before putting them away each day. This proactive approach reduces build-up and ensures there is nothing left on them that can damage your hearing aids.
Keeping Them Dry
You need to be aware of the potential damage that moisture can cause to your hearing aid. Hearing aids are small technological devices, and as such, any amount of water can be damaging to the components internally. This means that you need to avoid wearing them where they can get wet and dry them immediately if they do become wet to reduce the risk water can pose to your devices.
On top of this, you need to understand how your hearing aid can accumulate moisture, too.
It’s not just from getting them physically wet; it can also be caused by moving between different environments, such as air-conditioned spaces or humid areas. For example, air conditioning and hearing aids can cause failure as the moisture coming into a space where the air conditioning is on can cause moisture to build up on your hearing aid. Always use a dry, soft cloth to wipe away any moisture, and if you do suspect they have gotten wet, let them air dry before turning them back on, and talk to your hearing care professional to check for any damage.
Put Them On Last
It’s important to be considerate of your hearing aids when getting ready. To avoid adding extra contaminants that can potentially damage them, it’s advisable that you always put them on last after you have gotten ready and apply any creams or sprays to your body, e.g., hairspray and moisturizer. Wash your hands as mentioned prior to handling, and put your aids on afterward.
Take The Battery Out
The battery, if faulty or at the end of its life, can cause damage if left inserted in your hearing aid for too long. This can lead to corrosion and potentially render your hearing aid unusable.
Manufacturers recommend that you remove the battery and leave the compartment open each night when you take it off and put it away in its case. This allows air to circulate and stops any additional damage from the battery occurring. You can then reinsert it when you wear it again; this is especially important if you only wear it occasionally.
Caring for your hearing aids is essential to ensure they continue to support your hearing and overall well-being for years to come. By following these simple yet effective steps—cleaning them regularly, keeping them dry, putting them on after your routine, and removing the battery when not in use—you can protect your investment and keep your devices in optimal condition. With proper care and attention, your hearing aids will remain reliable companions, helping you live your life to the fullest.
Leave a Reply