Skiing represents a seasonal activity countless enthusiasts look forward to all year, and for excellent reason! But if you wear hearing aids, you might wonder if it’s secure (or practical) to wear them on the mountain. Hitting the slopes with your hearing aids is entirely feasible, provided you follow some basic precautions to guard your devices and preserve your hearing. Before your next run, let’s examine several factors regarding your hearing aids.
Value of Maintaining Hearing Aids on the Slopes
Increased Safety and Awareness
Skiing requires good situational awareness. The ability to hear others coming up or staff speaking is key to maintaining protection. Using your devices may help you hear more clearly, especially in busy areas like lift lines or ski school zones.
Easier Dialogue with Your Ski Group
Keeping your hearing aids in eases communication when you are skiing with your companions or an instructor. You’ll be able to hear instructions, warnings, or changes in plan without the frustration of miscommunication.
Staying Connected in the Lodge
Using your hearing aids allows you to easily socialize and interact with staff while at the resort.
Potential Risks to Consider
Cold Temperatures
Extreme cold can impact battery performance and cause devices to drain more quickly. While hearing aids generally tolerate winter conditions, it’s smart to keep spare batteries or a portable charger on hand.
Protecting Devices From Wet Conditions
Thawing snow may lead to moisture seeping into the battery or microphone area. While water-resistant models are helpful, note that no device is truly waterproof. Headbands, or ear coverings add an extra level of protection.
Risk Of Dropping A Device
Even experienced skiers can fall occasionally. A secure fit is essential to prevent your devices from falling out on the slopes.
Best Practices For Hearing Aid Safety on Slopes
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Wear a helmet or ear covering: A ski helmet with covers, or a warm headband, can shield Hearing Aids from wind, moisture, and force.
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Use retention clips or fasteners: These small accessories help keep hearing aids secure during activity.
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Newer devices are often better equipped to withstand moisture than older Hearing Aids.
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A dehumidifier is helpful to remove moisture from your devices overnight.
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As cold weather decreases battery efficiency, having spare batteries or a charger is essential.
Times When Hearing Aids Should Be Left Behind
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Wind noise is overwhelming during high-speed runs.
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You have older devices that are more sensitive to moisture.
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You are skiing in heavy conditions.
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You’re concerned about device loss and don’t have retention accessories.
Leaving devices off while skiing and reinserting them indoors is a choice. The choice is yours, and either approach is acceptable.
Concluding Thoughts On Skiing And Hearing Aids
Many people comfortably wear hearing aids while skiing by taking proper precautions. If communication and situational awareness matter most to you, keeping them in may be the better choice. If you worry about moisture or device loss may lead you to keep them protected until you are off the mountain.
If you’re unsure what’s best for your specific devices, your hearing care provider can help you create a plan that keeps both you and your Hearing Aids safe this winter. Contact us for a consultation.