Hearing aids can result in a significantly improved quality of life for individuals that utilize them. However, proper upkeep of these devices are critical to ensuring they last and continue to operate as needed. The following brief will offer 10 tips to a longer lasting hearing aid.
1. Avoid Moisture
Like any other device with advanced circuitry, exposing hearing aids to moisture could have significantly adverse consequences. It is recommended that hearing aid users remove the devices when showering, swimming or even when going outside during a rain event.
2. Store In Dry Place
When not using the device, it is recommended that users store their hearing aid product in a dry place devoid of humidity or potential exposure to water.
3. Prevent Earwax Buildup
Human ears often produce significant quantities of wax. Unfortunately, this substance could prove detrimental to the solid operation of a hearing aid. Hearing aid users are advised to clear wax from their ears as often as possible. Moreover, individuals should frequently clean wax off their hearing devices.
4. Consider Professional Cleaning
Hearing aid owners are encouraged to clean their devices frequently. That said, they should occasionally be cleaned by trained professionals. It is true that experienced hearing aid cleaning professionals exist. These individuals are quite versed in the makeup of such devices and understand how to clean them thoroughly.
5. Check Listening Quality Frequently
Users are advised to continually measure the quality of their hearing aid. It is advisable to check if the device is audible, clear, free of breaks or interruptions and is not accompanied by feedback (static, whistling, ringing or other bothersome sounds).
6. Avoid Heat Exposure
Hearing aids that come into direct contact with excessive heat are at an increased risk of becoming damaged. Exposing the device to sunlight, leaving it in a vehicle during the summertime or storing it adjacent to a heat source like a radiator’s emissions will almost guarantee a detrimental outcome.
7. Do Not Drop The Device
Many hearing aids are small and comprised of intricate parts that are sensitive and easily breakable. Accidently dropping the device could result in major damage.
8. Avoid Contact With Specific Chemicals
Users are strongly advised to avoid exposing hearing aids to chemicals like aerosols, air sprays or perfume/cologne mists. These products have been known to permeate specific hearing aid components and render said devices ineffective.
9. Keep Out of Children’s Reach
Young children possess natural curiosity. Unfortunately, however, exploration on a hearing aid could result in easy breakage. Therefore, users are encouraged to store hearing devices in a place inaccessible to young children.
10. Monitor The Batteries
Hearing aid batteries typically last anywhere from one to two weeks. The device will perform at the most optimal level when the batteries are the strongest. It is also advisable to always have a spare pair of batteries on standby.
Though a vital activity, hearing aid maintenance can be a challenging and time-consuming endeavor. Questions about your hearing aid or any other issue related to hearing are advised to contact our hearing center for further information or assistance. Call us at 888-595-8564 or use our online form to schedule your next appointment.