Best Hearing Aids for Active Lifestyles
Having an active lifestyle can be a barrier to getting fitted for hearing aids. Many people assume hearing aids can’t keep up with their demands, and opt to not get hearing aids so they can keep playing sports, going on hikes, and taking the dog out for a walk in the rain. What people don’t realize is that hearing technology has advanced in recent years, and those with an active lifestyle have many hearing aids to choose from. Hearing aids are for everyone! You can be active and healthy, and still enjoy great hearing.
Dealing with Wind
For those who like to spend the summer months outside, wind can be a big problem. Runners and cyclists may experience uncomfortable feedback in their hearing aids, and distortions from the wind. Be sure to choose a hearing aid that has wind-noise management technology. This works to minimize the effects of wind on the microphone, and provide comfort.
Beating Moisture
Anyone with an active lifestyle knows that moisture from sweat or unexpected rain can be a problem. Hearing aids for active lifestyles have special coatings that protect the hearing aids from moisture. This protects them from corrosive water, sweat, skin oils, ear wax, dirt, dust, and salt. It provides full protection to both the outside and inside of the hearing aid. If you choose a hearing aid without this added coating, you can purchase a water resistant hearing aid cover. This case seals the hearing aid to protect it from moisture.
Be careful around water. Water resistant isn’t the same as waterproof. While both the coating and the cover protect from moisture and even splashes of water from rain or water sports, they are not waterproof, so don’t wear your hearing aids to swim or bath.
Extending the Battery Life
If you’re active, you know how important battery life can be. You don’t want your battery to give out in the middle of an overnight hiking trip, or when you’re running a race. Look for zinc batteries which have longer life.
Size of Hearing Aid
Smaller sized hearing aids are often preferred by those with an active life, since the In-the-ear or In-the-canal styles don’t interfere with active wear accessories or clothes such as helmets and headbands. Having a smaller hearing aid is a compromise though, since smaller hearing aids have smaller batteries, which means shorter battery life.
Other Features and Accessories
A feature that’s appreciated by those with an active lifestyle is automated control of programs and settings. As the environment changes, the hearing aid will adjust settings such as volume levels or noise cancelation features. This means you can focus on what you’re doing and not stop to adjust the hearing aid. When you’re outside in a constantly changing environment, this could quickly become your favorite feature.
Don’t choose between hearing and enjoying your favorite activities and sports. You don’t have to! Be active and healthy with hearing aids designed to match your lifestyle.