Hearing loss is a common chronic condition. According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), “one in eight people in the United States (13 percent, or 30 million) aged 12 years or older has hearing loss in both ears, based on standard hearing examinations.”
Hearing aids are the most common treatment for people with hearing loss. If you just got your first pair, you’re probably learning a lot about how your device works and how to take care of it.
Let’s go over some of the best ways to care for your hearing aids on a daily basis to ensure they continue working to the best of their ability.
Clean Your Hearing Aids Regularly
You should wear your hearing aids during all waking hours, except in situations where they might get wet (like showering). That will provide optimal hearing but also expose your hearing aids to a daily barrage of moisture, earwax and other debris that, over time, could build up on your device and cause problems. Make sure to wipe your hearing aids off with a soft, dry cloth or hearing aid brush every night before bed.
Store Them in The Same Place Every Night
Hearing aids are tiny, which makes them easy to misplace. Storing them in the same place every night makes it easy to remember where they are so that you don’t have to frantically search for them while getting ready in the morning.
Just make sure to store them somewhere cool, dry and away from direct sunlight. Good options include your nightstand, sock drawer, jewelry box or even investing in a hearing aid drying box to help remove extra moisture and bacteria while you sleep.
Keep Your Hearing Aids Dry
As you may have figured out, moisture is something you absolutely want to avoid when it comes to your hearing aids. It can damage your device, leading to malfunction and poor sound quality. Always make sure to take your hearing aids out when you’re going to be in water.
Have Extra Batteries on Hand
The last thing you want is for your hearing aids to lose power while you’re in a work meeting or out celebrating a special occasion with your family at Roma Italian Bistro. If your hearing aids use disposable batteries, make sure to always have some with you when you’re out. You can keep them in your purse, coat pocket or glove compartment in your car. Just make sure they aren’t loose or next to coins, keys or other objects that could drain them of power.
For more tips on how to care for your hearing aids or to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists, contact Advanced Audiology & Hearing Aids today.