Hearing aids are both expensive and delicate, which can sometimes spell a recipe for disaster. Having gone through the lengthy process of having a hearing test, choosing your hearing aids, having them calibrated, and then paying for them, it’s understandable to want to do all you can to protect your new device and extend its lifespan for as long as possible. Hearing aids do degrade over time and eventually need to be replaced, but with a few tips and tricks, you can keep them in good condition for many years. Here’s how to do it.
The Importance of Regular Checkups
Your audiologist should offer you regular checkups at their office after you purchase a hearing aid. This is to assess any changes in your hearing, test your device for minor faults, and calibrate it for better functioning, so make sure you don’t miss any appointments. It’s always best to address an issue promptly so the likelihood of expensive repairs is lower.
Cleaning and Maintenance
One of the most important aspects of keeping your hearing aids in good working order is to properly clean and maintain them. It’s very easy for your device to get dirty considering where it’s placed on your body: earwax and moisture are the most common concerns, resulting in your hearing aid getting clogged over time – something that both lessens its effectiveness and causes damage. At the end of each day, wipe your device with a soft, lint-free cloth to provide some basic cleaning, and every couple of weeks or so, use a hearing aid cleaning kit for more thorough maintenance.
Store Your Device Safely
Safe storage is another critical element. If your hearing aid comes with a case, don’t forget to use it whenever your device isn’t in use. If you form this habit early on, even if they get stood on or get wet they’ll be protected. On the topic of water, it’s essential to store your hearing aids in a dry environment, as too much moisture can irreparably damage the electronics (you should also avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures for the same reason). If you have pets and children, keep your device well away from them: kids thinking they’re toys or pets chewing them is one of the most common causes of damage – read about this in context here.
Battery Care
And finally, there’s battery care. Naturally, your battery is one of the most important parts of your hearing aid, and given that it degrades over time, it’s key that you do all you can to enhance its longevity. Always make sure your device is turned off when not in use, and invest in spare batteries in case of an emergency (sometimes, batteries can fail for no reason). You should also take care to follow the manufacturer’s charging instructions, as charging incorrectly can lead to quicker degradation. Over time, you’ll need to replace your battery with a new one. Again, this will be flagged up by your audiologist during a routine checkup.
Wrapping Up
Hopefully, you now have a better understanding of the key steps involved in caring for your hearing aid. Providing you look after it, your device will continue to serve you for many years.
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