Cold Weather Hearing Aid Tips

As the winter season arrives, bringing colder and sometimes wetter weather, many bundle up and take precautions against the cold. The lower temperatures create unique issues for those who wear hearing aids. These devices contain sensitive components that can be affected by the change in seasons. Knowing how to deal with these issues can go a long way to help reduce malfunctions and minimize the amount of time a hearing device is not working. To help, we have created this list of cold weather hearing aid tips to help you get the most of your device this winter.

Four Helpful Cold Weather Hearing Aid Tips

#1 Batteries and the Cold

Many people do not realize the effects the cold can have on batteries. Prolonged exposure to lower temperatures can reduce battery charge, making them run out faster; make sure to have extra batteries, just in case.

#2 Storage Tips

Leaving your hearing aids in a protected storage case is a guaranteed way to protect your devices from moisture, especially if you plan on doing vigorous outdoor activities like shoveling snow. It’s also a good idea to remove the batteries while your hearing aid is not in use. This can help prolong the life of your batteries.

#3 Outdoor Issues

While snowy settings can be beautiful, they can, at times, also be very loud. From snow-blowers to snow-mobiles, the snow inspires all kinds of industrial noises. Having a hearing aid with adjustable settings or wearing ear muffs large enough to cover your hearing aids can help reduce excessive noise levels.

#4 Drying

One of the most significant issues with hearing aids and colder weather is the condensation that forms when drastic temperature changes occur. Coming into a warm environment after prolonged exposure to the cold can interfere with your hearing aid’s ability to function. When this happens, it’s essential to allow your device to dry out thoroughly before using it again. Remove the batteries and place them in a well-ventilated area to ensure they dry out completely.