Hearing aids play a crucial role in our everyday lives. To maximise their longevity, proper care and maintenance are essential. By incorporating certain habits into our routine, such as regular cleaning, timely replacement of worn or damaged components, scheduling professional cleanings and taking preventive measures to protect our hearing aids, we can guarantee that your hearing devices will serve you for many years to come.
To prolong the life of your hearing aid, it is importantl to take daily precautions against dirt, heat, humidity, and water. During the summer season, hearing aids are especially susceptible to water and heat damage. If your device is waterproof, make sure to carefully dry it after bathing. However, if it is not waterproof, it is crucial to shield it from coming into contact with water. In case of accidental exposure to moisture due to sudden rain or wet hands, promptly remove the device, turn it off, and take out the battery. Wipe the hearing aid with a clean cloth, gently shaking it to remove any moisture that might have seeped in. Then, leave the device on a piece of paper or an open surface with the battery compartment exposed for several hours to ensure thorough drying. To protect your hearing aids and extend their lifespan, avoid exposing them to direct sunlight or high temperatures. Also, keep them away from substances like sunscreen and cosmetics, which may cause damage. Be cautious of humidity, especially during the summer, as it can lead to moisture-related issues. Lastly, store the devices in cool, dry places and consider using dehumidifying products to safeguard them.
To ensure both your ear's well-being and the hearing aid's longevity, it's best to remove the device at night or before bedtime. Resting your ear on a pillow could cause feedback or injury. Don't forget to turn off the device after removal to prevent unnecessary battery drain. Store it in the appropriate case each night to protect it and establish a caring routine. Handling the delicate device with care is vital to avoid any potential damage.
Understanding when to replace your hearing aid batteries is simple, especially in the early stages. Replace them when you notice reduced hearing, lower-quality sound, or distorted audio. However, these are not the only hearing aid components to keep an eye on. Besides batteries, the maintenance of filters and domes is crucial for hygienic purposes as well as improved sound quality. Hearing aid domes protect the receiver and minimise sound leakage, ensuring optimal performance. Hearing aid filters need regular replacement since they cannot be cleaned effectively. Once damaged or dirty, it's important to replace them promptly to avoid potential harm spreading to other components. The process is straightforward and can be done independently using the dedicated cleaning tool provided with the hearing aid. Filters play a crucial role in protecting the device from earwax, oils, dust, and dirt, ensuring proper functioning. Routine maintenance involves cleaning the filters to extend their lifespan and maintain optimal efficiency. However, despite regular care and maintanenance, there will come a point when replacement will be necessary.
Properly cleaning your hearing aids is essential for extending their lifespan. The required tools include a soft cloth, cleaning sprays, wipes, and dehumidifying tablets to remove earwax and keep filters clean. A clogged filter is a common cause of device malfunction, so regular attention to this aspect is crucial. While some earwax is normal, prolonged exposure to earwax may also damage the aid and cause sound distortion and irritating whistling. Extended contact with earwax can also damage the aid. To clean your hearing aids effectively, establish a daily routine: clean them before bedtime, let them air out overnight, use appropriate tools like a soft, dry cloth, and remember to open the battery door to promote air circulation.
Establishing a daily cleaning routine is vital for hearing aid hygiene. However, it should not replace professional maintenance. While daily cleaning helps keep the devices clean, seeking assistance from a trusted hearing care professional is important for a more thorough cleaning. Professional cleaning effectively eliminates all traces of dirt, even from delicate components like microphones and receivers, and ensures optimal hearing quality.
Periodic hearing checks play a crucial role in maintaining optimal hearing, even for individuals who already use hearing aids. These assessments serve multiple important purposes: they help identify any decline in hearing ability and ensure that the current hearing aid is appropriately tailored to the individual's specific auditory needs.
Amplifon's hearing care professionals are happy to help you find the best hearing solution for you. Learn everything you need to know about the features and fit of your future hearing aid.
