According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2023), adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity and two days of muscle-strengthening exercises each week. If you’re among the nearly 20% of people worldwide living with hearing loss, you might wonder how to achieve these fitness goals without compromising the care of your hearing aids. The great news is that with a bit of planning, you can confidently stay active while keeping your hearing aids safe and secure. Let’s take a look at some practical strategies to protect your hearing aids while you break a sweat.
Invest in Sweat Protection
Although most modern hearing aids are water-resistant, it is still a good idea to prevent excess moisture exposure from sweat. A few ways you can prevent water damage include:
- Headbands or sweatbands. A snug headband or sweatband absorbs sweat before it reaches your hearing aids. Plus, it adds extra security to keep your devices in place.
- Hearing aid covers. Moisture-resistant covers offer an additional layer of protection during intense workouts. They’re also great if you’re headed out for a Spicewood Valley Trail hike on a rainy day!
- Wipe around your ears. Wipe down your face and ears regularly with a towel during your workout to prevent unnecessary moisture damage.
Secure Your Devices
Whether you’re doing a high-intensity workout with lots of jumping or cooling down with a yoga pose, exercising puts your hearing aids at risk of loss or damage. A few ways to keep your devices firmly in your ears include:
- Clips and lanyards. Attach your hearing aids to your clothing with clips or lanyards designed for added security. This way, even if they dislodge, they won’t get lost.
- Custom-fitted hearing aids. Well-fitted hearing aids are less likely to move or fall out during exercise. If your devices feel loose, consult your audiologist for adjustments.
Swimming Precautions
Prolonged submersion in water can put your hearing aids at risk. If swimming is part of your fitness routine, remove your hearing aids beforehand. Ensure your ears are completely dry before reinserting them post-swim.
Post-Workout Hearing Aid Care
Caring for your hearing aids after exercise is just as important as protecting them during it. After your workout, gently wipe your hearing aids with a soft, dry cloth to remove moisture and debris.
Hearing aids are a game-changer for adults with hearing loss, and they shouldn’t hold you back from enjoying an active lifestyle. With a few simple adjustments, you can tackle any fitness challenge with confidence. To learn more about caring for your devices, contact Austin Auditory Specialists today to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists.