You make an investment when you buy hearing aids, so take measures to keep them safe as you jet around the world. It would be great if all getaways were worry-free, but unfortunately, that’s often not the way it goes. If you would like one less worry, come up with a plan to protect your hearing aid while on the road. When heading out, are there any special measures to put in place for the safety of your hearing aids?
Start With the Basics
First of all, you will need to bring your cleaning kit. Everything you do while at home to clean your hearing aids, you’ll want to do when you go on vacation. Almost all quality brands come with or offer a specialty cleaning kit that offers a brush or pick. It’s a smart idea to bring a carrying case for storage and a soft wiping cloth.
It’s a smart strategy to bring along replacement batteries, as well. You will potentially wear your hearing aid more than normal so a backup set is a prudent idea. If your hearing aids have rechargeable batteries, bring an extra charger, also. Carry your chargers in separate places in the event that one gets lost.
Also, plan to bring along these other items:
- Tubing
- Soft domes
- Sport clip
A checklist is important to be sure you haven’t forgotten anything you may need. Put your hearing aid supplies in an easy to get to place to be sure that you can get at them anytime. Carry on luggage is the best place to keep these items when you are flying on a plane.
Before leaving Make Sure You Have Your Hearing Aids Checked and Cleaned by a Professional.
Your hearing aids really should be tuned up and cleaned at least a week before you go. You will want them functioning at their best when you are traveling. Ask your retailer about any warranties you have on your devices and bring the paperwork with you just in case something happens. Don’t unintentionally void your warranty by skipping something. Take the time to learn to file a claim.
You should find out if there are any hearing aid repair shops close to 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.
Wearing Hearing Aids at The Airport
With all of the changing security criteria, going to the airport is often challenging. The first thing you should know is to keep your hearing aids in while walking through the security checkpoints. Inform security that you are wearing them as you approach so that they know ahead of time. most of the time, you will not need to remove them when you go through the metal detector, but follow the directions of the security officer.
It’s also not a problem if you use your hearing aids on board the plane. In most cases, you need to shut off cell phones and mobile devices while taking off but you can leave your hearing aids on. You might notice your hearing aids don’t function as well on the plane, so be prepared for that possibility. If you are having a hard time hearing, use visual clues to let people know. For example, you can cup your ear to show that you can’t understand.
Consider Getting a Dryer or Dehumidifier
Vacations often go right along with water fun and humidity. Even if you’re not planning to go swimming, it doesn’t mean humidity is not still a potential problem. A dryer is a precaution worth having year round, but it’s particularly important when you travel.
Make Sure You Know How Your Hearing Aids Function
Certain features work best in one kind of environment, other features work better in a different kind of setting. For instance, you’ll need to filter out background noise in a restaurant or at an amusement park. You will have more fun at 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
In loud settings, this will come in handy. When you are talking with somebody, clip the microphone to them and you will be able to hear them better.
Call Ahead to The Resort or Hotel
Usually, 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. Smoke alarms that shake the bed or flash bright lights should be available to you. Ask if they have special phones for the hearing impaired and televisions with closed captioning.
Going on vacation is fun, but it can be crazy, 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.
