With summer just around the corner, you are probably starting to plan your 2016 family vacation. If your vacation plans put you on a sunny beach or a lake in the middle of nature, these scenarios bring up concerns for someone with hearing aids: water exposure, heat and sand.

Water and hearing aids

You already know that protecting your hearing aids from water exposure – whether water, moisture or sweat – is vital! Your hearing aids cannot withstand water unless they are waterproof hearing aids. Many water-resistant hearing aids and hearing aid accessories are also available, but these only help protect against minor water bouts like splashes, rain or moisture accumulation. Be sure to know the difference before you go swimming.

• If you plan to spend time in the lake, beach or pool, bring a clean container to store your hearing aids in while you are enjoying the water. If your hearing aids do get wet, be sure to immediately dry each part with a clean microfiber towel, and consider bringing a dehumidifier for drying your hearing aids each night

Humidity and heat

It is generally recommended to avoid wearing your hearing aids when there is extreme moisture in the air. Since this cannot always be the case, here are a few tips to consider:

  • Purchase waterproof or water resistant hearing aids that will better endure beach life
  • You can also purchase a dehumidifier which will work to dry away any sweat or moisture from the air
  • Protect your hearing aid batteries from extreme heat. Hearing aid batteries are sensitive to heat. Try putting in a new battery before going outdoors into direct sunlight or high temperatures, and don’t expose unused batteries to hot summer heat, as it can drain their power

Sand and hearing aids

Avoiding sand at the beach is no easy feat for anyone! But when you have hearing aids it must remain a priority to avoid permanent damage to the hearing aids and tubing. Avoid sand contact with your hearing aids by remembering never to touch your hearing aids when your hands are sandy, don’t let the kids bury you in the sand while wearing your hearing aids and be careful when laying down to soak up the rays.

Also remember that sunscreen has oils that can damage hearing aids, so apply lotions or sprays before putting in your hearing aids. Be sure that the sunscreen is fully rubbed in or dry so the oils do not seep into microphone ports or vents.

A trip to the beach with hearing aids doesn’t have to be difficult! Just remember to take extra precautions and utilize protection when at the beach with hearing aids!