You make a financial investment when you purchase hearing aids, so take steps to keep them safe as you jet around the world. Sometimes getaways are not as free of worry as you would wish. Taking precautions to take care of your hearing aids will give you one less thing to be stressed about while traveling. When heading out, are there any specific measures to put in place for the safety of your hearing aids?
Start With the Basics
Be sure to bring along a complete cleaning kit to begin with. When traveling you still need to do all of the things you would do at home to keep your hearing aids clean. Most quality brands come with or offer a specialized cleaning kit that contains a brush or pick. When you’re not using them, you need to put them in a case for safekeeping. Also, bring a soft cloth to wipe them down with.
It’s a smart strategy to bring along replacement batteries, too. Odds are you’ll be using the hearing aids longer than usual, so it’s smart to have a backup set. If your hearing aids come with rechargeable batteries, bring an extra charger, also. Your replacement charger needs to be carried somewhere separate in case one gets lost.
Give consideration to some extra items you might want for your hearing aids including:
- Tubing
- Soft domes
- Sport clip
A checklist is crucial so that you can be sure that you don’t forget anything you might really need. You never know when you might need one of your hearing aid supplies, so put them in an easy to get at place. Put these things in your carry on bag when you are flying.
Be Certain to Get Them a Good Cleaning And Checkup
Your hearing aids really should be tuned up and cleaned at least one week before you go. You will want them working their best while you are traveling. Ask your retailer about any warranties you have on your devices and take any paperwork with you in case something happens. Don’t accidentally void the warranty by missing something. Take the time to learn how to file a claim.
You ought to check into if there are any hearing aid retailers near where you are going. If you require a new battery or maybe even some repairs, it will be possible to bring it right in.
Some Considerations When You Are Using Hearing Aids at The Airport
With all the changing security specifications, going to the airport is often confusing. One thing you should know is to keep your hearing aids in while walking through the security checkpoints. Notify the security officer that you have a hearing aid as you approach so that they know ahead of time. If you adhere to the officer’s instruction you most likely won’t have to remove them to go through the metal detector.
You are also free to wear your hearing aids on the plane. You will not be required to turn them off before the plane takes off like you do a cell phone, either. Be ready because sometimes your hearing aid won’t work quite as well on the plane. If you are having trouble hearing, use visual clues to let people know. When you don’t understand what someone is saying, try cupping your ear to let them know.
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 swimming in a pool or going in the ocean, it is a prudent idea to have a way to dry out your hearing aids during the night to protect against water damage. A dryer is a preventative measure worth having all year round, but it’s especially important when you’re traveling.
Learn About How Your Hearing Aids Operate
Certain features work better 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. Hearing aids have outdoor settings that will make the beach more fun. But you have to be familiar with how your hearing aid operates if you want to use these features.
Bring a Remote Microphone
In noisy environments, this will be helpful. You simply clip the microphone to the person who you are talking with to enhance their voice so that you can converse freely.
Call Ahead to The Resort or Hotel
Usually, popular vacation spots accommodate for the hearing impaired. You’ll want to take advantage of that because you won’t be wearing your hearing aids at night. Smoke alarms which shake the bed or flash bright lights should be available to you. Closed caption televisions and special phones can be requested.
Traveling is enjoyable, but it can 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.