Approximately 28.8 million U.S. adults could benefit from the use of hearing aids. The small but remarkable devices improve communication by amplifying speech sounds, reducing irrelevant background noise and managing tinnitus symptoms.
With all they offer, hearing aids are one of the last things you want to misplace. Let’s take a look at a couple of likely places where hearing aids may be lost and how you can keep them safe.
Where Might You Misplace Your Hearing Aids?
Three common places people leave and lose their devices include:
- At the pool or beach. While most hearing aids come equipped with a water-resistant coating, none are waterproof. You will likely remove your devices before getting in the water to keep them safe during a swim at East Beach or your local indoor pool. Hearing aids may be lost if poorly stowed, left behind or kicked into a drain.
- Taken by pets or children. To you, hearing aids are an essential part of daily communication, but to children and pets, they can look like fun things to chew on or play with. While they may not mean to, pets and children can be responsible for lost or broken hearing aids.
- Down the drain. Similar to rings or earrings, you may find yourself removing hearing aids and placing them next to the bathroom or kitchen sink. While this may seem like a good place at the time, it may result in your devices being knocked down the drain.
How Can You Keep Your Hearing Aids Safe?
Follow these two tips to keep your hearing aids secure:
- Use a designated case. Always store your hearing aids in a designated case when not in use, even if they’re only out for a couple of minutes. A small electronics case is perfect if you do not have a hearing aid-specific case.
- Keep your devices high up. Even when in a case, your devices should be stored on an elevated surface, preferably in a closed drawer. Never place your hearing aids next to a sink or in your pockets, as they are likely to be forgotten and misplaced.
To learn more about hearing aid protection or to schedule a repair, contact Hearing Services of Santa Barbara today to make an appointment with one of our specialists.
