When venturing out to your favorite destination you will need to take steps to safeguard your hearing aid investment. Sometimes getaways are not as free of worry as you would like. If you plan ahead to care for and maintain your hearing aids correctly, that’s one less thing to stress about when you travel. When heading out, are there any special steps to put in place for the safety of your hearing aids?
There Are Some Simple Things You Can do
First of all, you will want to bring your cleaning kit. When going on vacation you still should do everything you would do while at home to keep your hearing aids clean. A brush or pick comes with most quality brand cleaning kits. You should also pack a soft dry cloth to wipe the surface down and a carrying case to put them in when not wearing them.
You will probably also need replacement batteries. More than likely you’ll be putting in your hearing aids longer than normal, so it’s prudent to bring a backup. Don’t forget that extra charger if you own a hearing aid that has rechargeable batteries. From time to time items get lost so carry your additional charger in a different bag.
Here are a few other items you may want to bring:
- Tubing
- Soft domes
- Sport clip
A checklist is important so that you can be sure you haven’t forgotten something you might really need. An easy to access place should be selected to put your hearing aid supplies in. Carry on luggage is the perfect spot to keep these items if you are going on a plane.
Before You Leave Make Certain You Have Your Hearing Aids Checked and Cleaned by a Professional.
Your hearing aids really should be professionally tuned and cleaned at least a week before you go. While traveling it’s essential that they are properly functioning. You may have to take your hearing aids in for unexpected emergency servicing when you are on vacation so ask your retailer about any warranties you might have. Don’t unintentionally void the warranty by skipping something. Take the time to learn to file a claim.
It won’t hurt to find out if there is an office around where you will be staying, as well. Or look up hearing aid repair or retailers on your own. This will make it a lot more convenient if you need repairs or maybe a new battery.
Some Considerations If You Are Wearing Hearing Aids at The Airport
Considering all of the changing security criteria, going to the airport is often challenging. One thing you need to be aware of is to wear your hearing aids while going through the security checkpoints. As you approach the security officers, let them know that you have a hearing aid in. In most cases, you will not have to remove them when you walk through the metal detector, but adhere to the instructions of the security officer.
It’s also perfectly fine to use your hearing aids aboard the plane. You will not need to turn them off before the plane takes off like you have to with a mobile device, either. When you’re on the plane, your hearing aid may not work as well. Use visual clues to let people know you may not hear as well. Cupping your ear, for instance, sends a signal 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 aren’t planning on swimming in a pool or going in the ocean, it is a prudent idea to have a way to dry out your hearing aids at night to avoid water damage. A dryer is very important when on vacation and also all year round.
Learn About How Your Hearing Aids Operate
Different features work better in different environments. For example, you’ll need to filter out background noise in a restaurant or at a theme park. You will get more enjoyment out of the beach if you use outdoor settings. But you have to be familiar with how your hearing aid operates if you want to utilize these features.
A Remote Microphone is a Good Thing to Bring Along
A remote microphone will be convenient in noisy environments, when driving in the car, or if you are on an airplane. You simply clip the microphone to whoever you are talking with which enhances their voice so that you can converse freely.
Notify the Hotel or Resort
Commonly, popular vacation destinations accommodate for the hearing impaired. Since you won’t be wearing your hearing aids at night you will want to take advantage of that. Smoke alarms which shake the bed or have flashing lights should be available to you. Ask if they provide special phones for the hearing impaired and televisions with closed captioning.
Going on vacation is fun, but it can 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.