Whether you like running, cycling, roller skating, yoga, Pilates, barre, pickleball, tennis, boxing or something completely different, maintaining an active lifestyle will help keep you healthy and happy for years to come. If you have hearing loss, your active lifestyle can actually inform which types of hearing aids are best for you.
Why Does My Lifestyle Affect My Hearing Aid Choice?
When you get your first pair of hearing aids, whichever devices you choose, we’ll program them to fit your hearing profile. That programming ensures your devices deliver the maximum possible benefit, but it isn’t the only factor that affects how well your hearing aids serve you.
Someone with an athletic lifestyle may need devices that can withstand moisture or that offer features that make exercise more fun. Let’s look at those and a few other factors that go into selecting the perfect devices.
Four Factors To Consider
Think about the following factors when you select your hearing aids:
- Style. Larger hearing aids will be big enough to use with clips and retention cords—key accessories for people who like to jump around, kayak or twist into funky yoga poses. Smaller hearing aids won’t be able to use retention cords; the professionally fit devices will still be secure in your ears. For smaller devices, you can use ear covers, though they may interfere with sound quality.
- Waterproofness. Many modern hearing aids have waterproof or water-resistant ratings that protect against sweat or accidental splashes. If you’re fond of water sports, take the waterproof rating[1] into account.
- Battery type. You can choose either rechargeable or disposable battery hearing aids. Disposable battery devices may be better for people who spend a lot of time camping or thru-hiking without an electrical source. Those who can charge their hearing aids nightly may prefer the convenience of rechargeable models.
- Features. Features like Bluetooth® compatibility, wind reduction, adaptive sound or fall detection can all benefit people with active lifestyles.
You don’t need to make your hearing aid decision alone. Our specialists will walk you through your options and help you choose the perfect device. Contact Today’s Hearing to schedule your consultation.
[1] International Electrotechnical Commission. (n.d.). IP ratings. IEC. https://www.iec.ch/ip-ratings