Hearing loss is a highly prevalent condition, with 1.5 billion people worldwide experiencing some degree of it. Hearing aids are one great way that hearing loss can be managed. The small but powerful devices have a microphone that collects sound, an amplifier that raises its volume, and a speaker that transmits it directly into the ear canal. They provide regular quality-of-life benefits such as speech amplification, tinnitus management and improved background awareness.
To enjoy all the benefits that hearing aids offer, you need to ensure that your devices are well cared for. Three common hearing aid mishaps include:
- Damage from pets
- Lost or misplaced hearing aids
- Poor storage
Let’s look at each of these a little more closely.
Hearing Aid Damage From Pets
To you, hearing aids are wonderful devices that make communication more accessible, but to our furry friends, they look like fun things to play with and chew on. Make sure to keep your devices out of reach from the little critters. For dogs, placing them on a high-up counter is recommended. For cats, you should always keep them in a closed drawer to prevent any unwanted mischief from occurring.
If you have just rescued a new cat or dog from Vanderburgh Humane Society, you may want to be extra careful with your devices as new animals tend to be less aware of what areas or objects are off-limits.
Lost or Misplaced Hearing Aids
Losing hearing aids can be as easy as losing your keys or headphones. When you remove your hearing aids, always place them in a designated spot. Whether in your nightstand drawer, desk or other places, having a designated hearing aid spot will help prevent loss.
Hearing Aid Damage From Poor Storage
Your hearing aids likely came with a case or other storage option. If they didn’t, purchasing a protective and ideally waterproof case is highly recommended. Store your devices in their case at night or whenever you remove them throughout the day, even if it is just a couple of minutes.
Pay extra attention, and never store your devices in your pockets. It is easy to forget that you placed them in there and they could end up right in the washing machine with your other clothes.
These three tips will help keep your devices safe over their long lifespan. If your hearing aids become damaged, follow the manufacturer’s directions for next steps and make an appointment with your hearing aid specialist for a repair or replacement.
Contact Hearing Healthcare Center, Inc. today to make an appointment with one of our hearing specialists.