When heading out to your favorite getaway you really should put steps in place to safeguard your hearing aids. It would be nice if all trips were stress-free, but unfortunately, that’s not always the case. If you plan ahead to care for and protect your hearing aids correctly, that’s one less thing to worry about while you travel. When vacationing, are there any special measures to take for the protection of your hearing aids?
Start With the Basics
Make certain to bring along a full cleaning kit to start with. When traveling you still should do all of the things you would do at home to clean your hearing aids. Most good quality brands come with or offer a specialized cleaning kit that contains a brush or pick. It’s a smart idea to have a carrying case for storage and a soft cleaning cloth.
It’s a prudent strategy to bring replacement batteries, too. More than likely you’ll be wearing the hearing aids longer than you usually do, so it’s prudent to have a backup set. Don’t forget about that replacement charger if you own a hearing aid with rechargeable batteries. Put your chargers in separate bags in case one gets lost.
These are some other items you should bring:
- Tubing
- Soft domes
- Sport clip
Create a list of everything you use at home before leaving and check twice to ensure that you’ve got everything you need with you before you load up your vehicle. An easy to access place should be selected to put your hearing aid supplies in. If you are flying, as an example, carry these items in your carry on luggage or bag.
Before leaving be Certain You Have Your Hearing Aids Checked and Cleaned by a Professional.
Bring your hearing aids in for a good cleaning and tune-up a week or two before you go on vacation. You will want them functioning at their best when you are traveling. You may need to take your hearing aids in for emergency servicing while on vacation so be sure to ask your retailer about any warranties you may have. Educate yourself on how to file a claim otherwise you may miss something and you could void your warranty.
You ought to find out whether there are any hearing aid repair shops near where you are staying. This way you know where to go if you need quick service, a new battery or even a replacement hearing aid.
Some Considerations When You Are Wearing Hearing Aids at The Airport
Often times it is difficult to know all of the constantly changing security expectations while at the airport. One thing you need to be aware of is to keep your hearing aids in while going through the security checkpoints. As you come up to the security officers, inform them that you have a hearing aid in. In most cases, you probably won’t have to take them out as you go through the metal detector, but adhere to the directions of the security officer.
It’s also perfectly fine to wear your hearing aids on the plane. Normally, you be required to turn off cell phones and mobile devices when taking off but your hearing aid can stay on. You might find that your hearing aids don’t function quite as well on the plane, so be ready for that if it happens. Use visual clues to let people know you might not hear as well. Cupping your ear, for example, sends a signal that you don’t understand.
A Drying Kit or Dehumidifier is a Good Idea
Vacations usually go right along with water fun and humidity. Even if you aren’t planning on going swimming in a pool or going into the ocean, it is a prudent idea to have a way to dry out your hearing aids during the night to prevent water damage. A dryer is a preventative measure worth having all year round, but it’s especially important when you travel.
Learn About How Your Hearing Aids Function
Different features work better in different environments. In a busy restaurant for instance, or at an amusement park, you will want to filter out background noise. You will have more fun at the beach when you use outdoor settings. But you have to be familiar with how your hearing aid operates if you want to take advantage of these features.
A Remote Microphone is a Good Thing to Bring Along
In noisy settings, this will come in handy. You simply clip the mic to the person who you are talking with which enhances their voice so that you can chat freely.
Notify the Hotel or Resort
Normally, popular vacation spots accommodate for the hearing impaired. Since you won’t be wearing your hearing aids at night you will want to take advantage of that. Ask them about rooms with smoke alarms that have flashing lights or shake the bed. Closed caption televisions and special phones can be requested.
Vacationing is fun, but it can also be frantic, too. Deal with your hearing aids before you go, so you can relax and enjoy your trip. Schedule an appointment for a tune-up today.