You make an investment when you buy hearing aids, so take measures to keep them safe and secure as you jet around the world. It would be great if all getaways were worry-free, but sadly, that’s often not the way it goes. If you come up with a plan to care for and safeguard your hearing aids properly, that’s one less thing to stress about while you travel. What safety steps should you take for your hearing aids when you go on vacation.
There Are Some Basics Things You Can do
First of all, you will want to bring your cleaning kit. Anything you do at home to clean your hearing aids, you’ll want to do while you go on vacation. Most good quality hearing aid brands come with or offer a special cleaning kit that includes a brush or pick. You will also want to pack a soft dry cloth to wipe the surface down and a carrying case to keep them in when you are not wearing them.
Extra batteries will probably be a good idea as well. Chances are you’ll be wearing the hearing aids longer than usual, so it’s good to bring a backup set. Don’t forget about that replacement charger if you own a hearing aid that has rechargeable batteries. From time to time things get lost so carry your replacement charger in a different bag.
Here are some other items you may want to bring along:
- Tubing
- Soft domes
- Sport clip
Prior to loading up your car double check so that you may be certain that you packed everything that you may need. An easily accessible spot should be chosen to carry your hearing aid items in. If you are flying, for instance, put this stuff in your carry on luggage or bag.
Be Certain to Get Them Cleaned And Checked
A week before leaving bring your hearing aids in for an expert tune-up. While traveling it’s important that they are correctly working. You may need to take your hearing aids in for emergency servicing while on vacation so consult your retailer regarding any warranties you might have. Learn how to file a claim otherwise you may miss something and you could void your warranty.
You should find out whether there are any hearing aid repair shops close to where you are going. Then it will be a lot more convenient if you need servicing or maybe a replacement battery.
Some Considerations If You Are Wearing Hearing Aids at The Airport
Considering all the changing security requirements, going to the airport is often puzzling. When you are going through the security checkpoint, wear your hearing aids. Tell the security officer that you are wearing them as you approach so that they know ahead of time. In most cases, you probably won’t need to remove them as you step through the metal detector, but adhere to the directions of the security agent.
While you are on the aircraft you can still keep your hearing aids in as well. In most cases, you may be required to turn off cell phones and mobile devices before taking off but you can leave your hearing aids on. You might notice your hearing aids don’t function quite as well on the plane, so be prepared for that possibility. Use visual clues to let people know you may not hear as well. Cupping your ear, for instance, indicates that you don’t understand.
A Drying Kit or Dehumidifier is a Good Idea
Water fun and humid weather go right along with vacations. Even if you’re not planning to go swimming, it doesn’t mean humidity is not still a potential issue. A dryer is really important when on vacation and also year round.
Learn About How Your Hearing Aids Function
Certain features work best in one kind of setting, other features work better in a different kind of setting. In a busy restaurant for example, or at an amusement park, you will want to filter out background noise. You will have more fun at the beach when you use outdoor settings. You won’t know for sure what feature to take advantage of if you are not familiar with how your hearing aid works.
Bring a Remote Microphone
A remote microphone will come in handy in loud settings, when driving in the car, or if you are on an airplane. If you are conversing with somebody, clip the microphone to them and you will be able to hear them better.
Call Ahead to The Resort or Hotel
Commonly, popular vacation destinations accommodate for the hearing impaired. You’ll want to take advantage of that since you won’t be wearing your hearing aids at night. Ask them about rooms with smoke alarms that have flashing lights or shake the bed. Closed caption televisions and special phones can be requested.
Traveling is fun, but it can also be crazy, too. Get your hearing aids situated before you go, so you can relax and enjoy your trip. Schedule an appointment for a tune-up today.