Do you suffer from hearing loss? You can still enjoy the sights – and sounds – of the holiday season. You just have to be prepared.
Having a hearing problem can hamper your holiday fun. You may miss out on conversations at family dinners, the office, or parties. Restaurants can be noisy, which may even further lessen your enjoyment as you try to listen to the lively chats happening at your table. And don't forget the holiday music – whether it's traditional holiday songs or the latest pop song with a holiday twist, listening to holiday music can put you in the spirit of the season, something you don't want to miss out on.
A hearing aid can greatly enhance your ability to communicate and interact with others. Wearing a hearing aid can ensure you enjoy this holiday season. If you do not have a hearing aid, see your doctor or audiologist (someone who specializes in hearing and ear problems) to see if a hearing aid will help with your hearing problem. If you already have a hearing aid, make sure you take care of it.
Here are some tips you can follow to ensure you enjoy your hearing during the holidays:
- Make sure you understand how to use your hearing aid. You should be comfortable placing it in your ear and taking it out, replacing or recharging the batteries depending on your model, and cleaning it. If you aren't sure or have questions, consult your audiologist.
- Some hearing aids come with rechargeable batteries that save you the hassle of opening slots and replacing batteries. To charge, simply place the hearing aid into the charging device. The LED light indicator(s) on the charging device will let you know once it's fully charged. Keep in mind that rechargeable hearing aids are not compatible with disposable batteries. It's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions, as each device may operate differently.
- Other hearing aids use disposable batteries, meaning they need to be replaced when they run out of power. These come in different sizes, each with a coloured tag, starting from the smallest to the largest in the following order; 10 (yellow), 312 (brown), 13 (orange), 675 (blue). Switch the battery once they are low, which may be indicated by the device beeping or if you're noticing sound changes. Make sure to check the package expiration date as well.
- If you have a hearing aid that uses disposable batteries, keep extra batteries around the house and on your person when you're out (but out of reach from children and pets!). This way, you're not stuck without backup if your batteries die. Carry them in the hearing aid case, not loosely in your pockets, as metal objects can affect the batteries.
- Follow the instructions on cleaning your hearing aid
- Avoid using hairspray or other hair-care products while you are wearing your hearing aid.
- Keep your hearing aid away from heat and moisture. Don't store it in a steamy bathroom. If you sweat, wipe the hearing aid with a dry tissue. Also consider placing the hearing aid in a dehumidifier or dry-aide kit at night.
- Make sure you turn your hearing aid off when you're not using it.
- Get regular checkups as recommended by your doctor. Make an appointment with your doctor or audiologist, who can monitor your hearing and detect any problems before they get worse.
- Consider getting two hearing aids. Two hearing aids may be better for hearing in noisy situations and may allow you to enjoy a more comfortable sound. It may also help make it easier to tell which direction a sound is coming from.
All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2024. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Source: www.medbroadcast.com/healthfeature/gethealthfeature/Hearing-During-the-Holidays
