Preparing Your Hearing Aids for the Holiday Period: A Comprehensive Guide
As the holiday season approaches and many businesses, including hearing clinics, close for festivities, it’s crucial for hearing aid users to prepare their devices for this period. Ensuring your hearing aids are in top condition before the holiday closure can prevent inconveniences and ensure continuous, optimal performance. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get your hearing aids ready for the holiday season.
- Schedule a Pre-Holiday Check-up
Professional Cleaning and Maintenance: Book an appointment with your audiologist or hearing aid specialist for a professional cleaning and check-up. This visit can help identify any issues that might need addressing before the holidays.
- Stock Up on Supplies
Batteries: Purchase enough batteries to last the entire holiday period. Consider buying a little extra in case of emergencies.
Wax Guards and Filters: Make sure you have enough wax guards and filters. Changing these regularly can prevent malfunction and maintain sound quality.
Cleaning Supplies: Ensure you have all the necessary cleaning tools and solutions. This includes a soft cleaning brush, wax pick, and drying container or dehumidifier.
- Learn Basic Troubleshooting
Handling Feedback and Whistling: Know how to adjust the fit or settings to manage feedback.
Moisture Issues: Understand how to dry out your hearing aids if they are exposed to moisture.
Changing Filters and Batteries: Make sure you’re comfortable performing these tasks, as they are the most common maintenance needs.
- Plan for Emergencies
Backup Hearing Aids: If you have an older pair of hearing aids, keep them as a backup. Ensure they are also functioning correctly before the holiday season begins.
- Optimise Settings for Holiday Events
Noise Settings: Holidays often involve noisy environments. Check if your hearing aids have settings or programs designed for managing background noise and enhance speech clarity.
Connectivity Features: If your hearing aids can connect to mobile devices or loop systems, test these features beforehand, especially if you plan to attend events or religious services where these might be useful.
- Maintain Proper Storage
Safe Storage: When not in use, keep your hearing aids in a safe, dry place. If you’re traveling, ensure they are stored in a hard-shell case to protect them from physical damage.
Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Keep your hearing aids away from extreme cold or heat, as these can damage the batteries and internal components.
- Educate Friends and Family
Handling Aids: If you’re spending the holidays with family or friends who might help you with your hearing aids, show them how to handle them properly.
Awareness: Inform them about what to do in case the hearing aids are not functioning correctly, like checking the battery or ensuring the device is turned on.
If you would like any advice or assistance please pop into Hearsmart Hearing Solutions, 321 Main Street, Lilydale or call 1300 787 792
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