When the winter season rolls in, it brings a host of challenges, from slippery sidewalks to cold temperatures and darker evenings. If you’re among those who rely on hearing aids, you might be wondering how the cold weather affects your trusty companions. We’re here to help! Let’s take a closer look at how to protect your hearing aids, even when Jack Frost is nipping at your nose.
Understanding How Hearing Aids Respond to Cold Weather
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of winter hearing aid care, let’s get familiar with how the cold weather can impact your devices:
- Battery Blues: When it’s cold outside, hearing aid batteries suffer. Cold temperatures can slow down the chemical reactions that power hearing aid batteries, which means they might not last as long as you’d expect. In other words, you might find yourself swapping out those batteries more often.
- Moisture Matters: Cold air is notorious for being dry, but things take a turn when you move from the cold outdoors to the warm indoors. That drastic temperature shift can lead to some condensation forming inside your hearing aids. This moisture can wreak havoc on the sensitive electronic parts inside your trusty device.
- Earpiece Elegance: Cold weather can make your hearing aid earpieces feel a bit stiff and frozen. If you’ve ever worn hearing aids for an extended period in the winter, you know what I’m talking about – it’s not exactly cozy. Discomfort and irritation can occur.
Winter-Proofing Your Hearing Aids
Now that we have a picture of the challenges, let’s jump into some practical tips to ensure your hearing aids stay in great shape this winter season:
Batteries
Stash extra batteries in a warm and dry spot, like your pocket or an inside coat pocket. That way, they’ll be all toasty and ready to go. Be sure to carry extra batteries with you, even if you think you don’t need to. The cold might zap their power more quickly, so it’s always smart to have backups on hand.
Moisture Management
It’s a good idea to invest in a hearing aid dehumidifier, a device designed to wick away moisture. They can dry your hearing aids when you’re not wearing them or during the night. If you don’t have a dehumidifier, you can use a sealed container filled with desiccant. These little silica gel packs can draw out moisture and dry your devices.
Warming the Earpieces
When your earpieces are feeling stiff and cold, we recommend wearing earmuffs or a snug, warm hat. This is a great way to protect your ears and your hearing aids from the cold. Double-check that your hearing aids fit comfortably. A well-fitted device will keep you warm and toasty in more ways than one.
Weather-Resistant Covers
If your hearing aids come with weather-resistant or waterproof covers, don’t hesitate to use them during the winter, especially if it’s raining or snowing.
Heading out into cold and wet weather? Shield your hearing aids from direct exposure with a hat, hood, or trusty umbrella.
Regular Cleaning and Maintenance
Winter often means more encounters with moisture and dust. Keep your hearing aids clean by giving them a gentle wipe-down with a soft, dry cloth.
Avoid Sudden Temperature Changes
Avoid taking your hearing aids directly from extreme cold to toasty warmth. Instead, let them acclimate slowly by leaving them in their case during transitions.
Professional Support
Schedule a regular checkup with your hearing healthcare professional to ensure your hearing aids are performing at their best. We can make any necessary adjustments and catch any potential issues before they become a problem.
Cold Weather Care
With these tips, you’re ready to face the winter season with your trusty hearing aids. By taking these proactive steps to fend off battery drain, moisture, and discomfort, you can rest easy knowing that your hearing aids will continue to be your reliable companions throughout the winter.
Do you need more tips for winter care, or do you want to upgrade your devices? Book a hearing test or consultation to talk about your hearing needs. We’ll recommend the perfect devices based on your lifestyle, hearing needs, and budget. Call us today to get started!