Preparing Your Hearing Aids for the Outdoors
Before heading out, it's essential to ensure your hearing aids are primed for the outdoors. Check they sound right and that you have enough battery life, as the serenity and subtle sounds of nature are experiences you don’t want to miss.
For those planning on a camping trip or longer hikes, carrying spare batteries or a portable charger is advisable.
Consider the weather and environmental conditions you'll encounter, and adjust your hearing aid settings accordingly. Features like wind noise reduction can be invaluable in open, gusty landscapes. You can also purchase covers to fit over the microphone that are specially designed to reduce wind noise.
Keeping Your Hearing Aids Safe and Secure
Securing hearing aids effectively is crucial, especially when engaging in physical activities like hiking. Here are some strategies to keep them safe:
- Sports clips and retainers: These accessories are designed to provide additional security for your hearing aids. They attach to the aids and can be clipped to your clothing, ensuring that even if the aids come loose, they won't fall to the ground.
- Specialised ear gear: Consider investing in protective gear for your hearing aids, such as covers that shield them from sweat, dust, and moisture. This is particularly beneficial for those who enjoy vigorous activities or are venturing into dusty or sandy environments.
- Hats and headbands: Wearing a hat or a snug-fitting headband can offer an extra layer of security. They help keep the hearing aids firmly in place and also protect them from elements like wind and rain.
- Custom moulds: For those with behind-the-ear (BTE) and receiver-in-canal (RIC) models, custom ear moulds can ensure a more secure fit, reducing the risk of the hearing aids becoming dislodged during movement.
- Routine checks: Regularly check your hearing aids throughout your adventure. Quick adjustments and fittings can prevent them from becoming loose or falling out unexpectedly.
Waterproof Hearing Aids
If you have waterproof or water-resistant hearing aids, you can enjoy water-based activities with greater confidence.
These devices can handle splashes in shallow water and brief immersions, making them suitable for fun on the beach, by the creek, or around waterfalls and rock pools.
However, prolonged exposure to water should still be avoided. For non-waterproof hearing aids, invest in a waterproof case for safe storage when you’re close to water. This precaution helps protect your hearing aids from unexpected water contact and damage.
Embracing the Sounds of Nature
Outdoor adventures offer a unique opportunity to engage with nature. Adjust your hearing aids to outdoor settings, if available, to better capture sounds like rustling leaves, flowing water, or bird calls, while minimising unwanted noise.
Modern hearing aids often come with features that enhance the auditory experience in natural settings, allowing you to enjoy every moment.
Choosing Silence: Opting to Remove Your Hearing Aids Outdoors
For some, particularly solo hikers who cherish the solitude and serenity of nature, there might be a preference to experience the outdoors without the assistance of hearing aids.
If you choose this option, it's crucial to have a safe and secure method of storing your hearing aids. A sturdy, waterproof case is ideal for protecting them from the elements while you're disconnected.
This way, you can fully immerse in the peace of the great outdoors. Don’t forget to always ensure that your hearing aids are easily accessible and protected, so you can reconnect with the world around you once you return to civilisation.
Time to Explore!
Whether you’re going on a gentle beachside stroll or hiking through the bush, your hearing aids can greatly enhance your experience.
Before you set off, consider visiting your local Connect Hearing clinic for a pre-adventure check-up, ensuring your hearing aids are as adventure-ready as you are.