When venturing out to your favorite destination you will need to put steps in place to protect your hearing aids. Often times vacations are not as worry-free as you would wish. If you want one less worry, come up with a plan to take care of your hearing aid while on your trip. When heading out, are there any specific measures to take for the protection of your hearing aids?
Start With the Basics
First of all, you will want to bring your cleaning kit. Keep cleaning your hearing aids the same way as when you are at home. A brush or pick comes with the majority of brand name cleaning kits. When you’re not wearing them, you should put them in a case for storage. Also, bring a soft cloth to wipe them down.
Extra batteries will most likely be a good idea too. It’s not a bad idea to bring a backup because you will probably use your hearing aid more than you normally do. If your hearing aids come with rechargeable batteries, bring along an extra charger, as well. Occasionally items get misplaced so carry your extra charger in a separate bag.
Also, plan to bring these other items:
- Tubing
- Soft domes
- Sport clip
Creating a checklist is crucial so that you can be certain you haven’t forgotten anything you may really need. An easy to get to spot should be chosen to pack your hearing aid items in. Carry on luggage is the best place to put these items if you are flying on a plane.
A Professional Cleaning And Checkup is a Good Move Before You Leave
Bring your hearing aids in for a good cleaning and a professional tune-up a week or two before you go on your trip. You want them working their best while you travel. Ask the retailer about any warranties you may have on the hearing aids and take any paperwork with you just in case something happens. Learn how to file a claim otherwise you might miss something and you could void your warranty.
You should check into whether there are any hearing aid retailers near where you are staying. If you need a replacement battery or some repairs, you will be able to bring it right in.
Some Considerations When You Are Using Hearing Aids at The Airport
Considering all the changing security requirements, going to the airport is often puzzling. When you are going through the security gate, wear your hearing aids. As you approach the security officers, tell them that you have a hearing aid in. In most cases, you will not have to take them out when you step through the metal detector, but listen to the instructions of the security agent.
You are also free to use your hearing aids aboard the airplane. Normally, you may be required to shut off cell phones and mobile devices before taking off but you can leave your hearing aids on. You might discover your hearing aids won’t work as well on the plane, so be prepared for that if it happens. Use visual indicators to let people know you may not hear as well. For example, you can cup your ear to indicate that you can’t understand.
Consider Getting a Dryer or Dehumidifier
Vacations typically go hand in hand with water fun and humidity. Even if you don’t plan on swimming in a pool or going in the ocean, it is a smart idea to bring a way to dry out your hearing aids during the night to protect against water damage. A dryer is very important when on vacation and also year round.
Learn About How Your Hearing Aids Work
Some features work better in one kind of setting, other features work better in a different kind of setting. For example, you’ll need to filter out background noise in a restaurant or at a theme park. Hearing aids have outdoor settings that can make the beach more enjoyable. You won’t know what feature to take advantage of if you are not familiar with how your hearing aid works.
Bring Along a Remote Microphone
In noisy environments, this will be helpful. You just clip the microphone to the person who you are talking with which enhances their voice so that you can converse freely.
Notify the Hotel or Resort
Popular vacation destinations commonly have accommodations 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 have flashing lights or shake the bed. Ask if they have special phones for the hearing impaired and televisions with closed captioning.
Traveling is enjoyable, 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.