As an audiologist at Alabama Hearing Associates, I work with many new hearing aid users. I love this part of my job because I get the privilege of guiding someone as they begin a new chapter in their life.
Yet, my patients are frequently concerned about the impact hearing aids will have on their lifestyle. This is particularly true of athletes and fitness buffs who fear their devices will be damaged while playing sports.
It’s a delight to see how pleased they are when I explain as long as they’re not playing a water sport, hearing aids always should be worn during sports.
Why You Should Use Your Hearing Aids While Playing Sports
Communication is part of the game when you’re playing team sports. Your coach and teammates are relying on you to react to the information they give you.
It’s difficult to give your team your best effort when you’re missing the sounds of what’s going on around you. Wearing your hearing aids also keeps you connected to the social aspect of playing team sports.
Hearing aids can be thought of as safety devices for solo athletes. Their devices help them stay aware of their surroundings. When you’re running, jogging, or biking alone, knowing what’s happening around you is a must.
Prevent Problems with the Right Gear
Athletes tend to be worried their hearing aids may fall off during the game. The potential for damage from sweat is another common concern. Having the right gear can help prevent these problems.
A hearing aid clip has an end you attach to your device while you clip the other end to your clothes. If your hearing aid comes off while playing, the hearing aid clip will keep it attached to your clothing.
Wearing your hearing aids with a traditional sweatband makes them less likely to become dislodged during sports. Although many hearing aids are moisture-resistant, a standard sweatband can still keep moisture out of the hearing aids.
Also, there are hearing aid sweatbands on the market that are meant to be worn with behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids.
Remember to take extra batteries along. No one wants to lose their ability to communicate in the middle of the big game.
How to Perform Postgame Hearing Aid Care
After the game or practice, use a puffer to remove moisture from tubing and hearing aids. At the end of the day, use the cleaning tools that came with your hearing aids to remove debris from your devices.
Storing your hearing aids in a dry box (also known as a hearing aid dehumidifier) overnight is a good idea. A dry box removes moisture from the devices.
Some hearing aid dehumidifiers sanitize your devices too. Your hearing aids will be ready for another day of play when you wake up in the morning.
If you or a loved one wants to discuss hearing aid options or have any hearing-related concerns, don’t hesitate to contact Alabama Hearing Associates. We would be happy to help.
