Hearing aids are incredibly useful devices with a microphone that collects sound, an amplifier that raises its volume and a speaker which sends it directly into the ear canal. The devices can help improve communication, manage tinnitus symptoms and even improve balance but a study still found that among adults ages 70 and over who could benefit from hearing aids, fewer than 30 percent have used them.
Those who choose not to wear hearing aids often cite fear that they will be damaged. Knowing when and when not to wear your hearing aids can help you care for and enjoy them for their full lifespan.
When Should Hearing Aids Be Worn?
Wearing your hearing aids consistently is important to help your brain adjust to the new sounds. A couple of times when wearing your hearing aids can be beneficial include but are not limited to:
- When you’re at home. Wearing your devices at home will help you watch TV, hear timers and smoke alarms and better understand your loved ones. Home is also a great place to acclimate to new devices as you will be exposed to fewer random sounds.
- At social events. Hearing aids can help you understand your friends over the background noise of a dinner at Amadeus Restaurant. The devices can help you stay aware and engaged in all the fun conversation without feeling too overwhelmed.
When Should Hearing Aids Not Be Worn?
While consistency of wear is important, there are some times when hearing aids should not be work including but not limited to:
- When you are sleeping. Always take your devices out when you go to bed. This will prevent them from being damaged and give your ears time to breathe after wearing the devices all day.
- When you are bathing or swimming. Some hearing aids come with a water-resistant coating but none are waterproof. Always take your hearing aids out and place them in a protective case when you will come into contact with water.
- When you are using aerosols. Wearing aerosols like hairspray and perfume are okay when using hearing aids but you should always remove your devices before application and wait for the product to fully dry before returning them to your ears.
For more information on hearing aid treatment and use, contact Willamette ENT & Facial Plastic Surgery today to make an appointment with one of our specialists.
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