When venturing out to your favorite getaway you will need to put steps in place to protect your hearing aid investment. Often times vacations are not as worry-free as you would hope. If you would like one less concern, come up with a plan to protect your hearing aid while on vacation. When heading out, are there any special measures to take for the protection of your hearing aids?
What Are The Basics
First of all, you will need to bring a cleaning kit. Keep cleaning your hearing aids the same way as when you are at home. A brush or pick is included with the majority of brand name cleaning kits. When you’re not wearing them, you should keep them in a case for storage. Also, bring a soft cloth to wipe them down with.
Replacement batteries will most likely come in handy too. It’s a good idea to bring along a backup since you will probably wear your hearing aid more than you normally do. Don’t forget about that extra charger if you own a hearing aid that has rechargeable batteries. From time to time things get lost so put your extra charger in a separate bag.
These are a few other things you may want to bring:
- Tubing
- Soft domes
- Sport clip
Prior to loading your car up double check so that you may be certain you have everything that you might need. You never know for sure when you may actually need one of your hearing aid supplies, so pack them in an easy to access place. If you are flying, for instance, keep this stuff in your carry on luggage or bag.
Be Certain to Get Them Cleaned And Checked
Bring your hearing aids in for a good cleaning and tune-up a week or two before your trip. While traveling it’s important that they are correctly functioning. Ask the retailer about any warranties you may have on the hearing aids and take any paperwork with you just in case something happens. Don’t inadvertently void your warranty by skipping something. Take the time to learn how to file a claim.
You should find out whether there are any hearing aid repair shops near where you are going. Then it will be that much more stress-free if you require servicing or a replacement battery.
Using Hearing Aids at The Airport
Sometimes it is difficult to know all of the constantly changing security requirements at the airport. When you are going through the security checkpoint, wear your hearing aids. As you come up to the security officers, advise them that you are wearing a hearing aid. If you adhere to the security agent’s direction you probably won’t have to take them out to walk through the metal detector.
While you are on the aircraft you can still keep your hearing aids in your ears as well. You will not be required to turn them off before the plane takes off like you have to with a cell phone, either. When on the plane, your hearing aid may not work as well. Use visual hints to let people know you might not hear as well. When you don’t understand what someone is saying, try cupping your ear to clue them in.
Consider Getting a Dryer or Dehumidifier
Vacations usually go hand in hand with swimming and humidity. Even if you’re not planning on going swimming, that doesn’t mean humidity is still not a potential problem. A dryer is a precaution worth having year round, but it’s especially important when you travel.
Learn About How Your Hearing Aids Operate
Different features work better in different environments. In a crowded restaurant for instance, or at an amusement park, you will need to filter out background noise. Some have outdoor settings that can make the beach more fun. But you have to be familiar with how your hearing aid functions if you want to use these features.
A Remote Microphone is a Good Thing to Bring
A remote microphone will come in handy in noisy environments, when driving in the car, or if you are on a plane. If you are chatting with somebody, clip the microphone to them and you will be able to hear them better.
Call Ahead to The Resort or Hotel
Normally, popular vacation venues accommodate for the hearing impaired. You’ll want to take advantage of that because you won’t be using your hearing aids at night. Ask them about rooms with smoke alarms that flash the lights or shake the bed. Ask if they provide special phones for the hearing impaired and televisions with closed captioning.
Vacationing is fun, but it can also be frantic, too. Get your hearing aids situated before you leave, so you can relax and enjoy your trip. Schedule an appointment for a tune-up today.