Numerous people keenly await skiing, an exhilarating cold-weather sport, all year long. However, for those who utilize hearing aids, it is natural to ask about the security and practicality of using them while on the mountain. In most cases, you can ski with your hearing aids, as long as you take a few precautions to safeguard both your devices and your hearing – helping reduce the risk of hearing loss and tinnitus. Today, we’ll look at a few items to evaluate before hitting the slopes.
Advantages of Using Hearing Aids on the Slopes
Better Awareness on the Slopes
Skiing demands good situational awareness. Being able to hear others approaching or staff speaking is crucial to staying safe. Wearing your hearing aids may help you hear more effectively, particularly in busy areas like lift lines or ski school zones.
Streamlined Conversations While On The Slopes
Wearing your hearing aids in helps communication when you are skiing with your group 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
Keeping your hearing aids ensures that you can socialize and interact with staff while at the resort.
Assessing The Potential Issues
Impact of Low Temperatures
Low temperatures frequently reduce battery efficiency; consequently, devices drain more rapidly. While hearing aids generally tolerate winter conditions, it’s prudent to keep spare batteries or a portable charger on hand.
Exposure To Snow And Moisture
Thawing snow may lead to moisture entering the battery or microphone compartment. Water-resistant hearing aids assist, but no device is completely waterproof. Using a helmet, headband, or ear covering adds an additional layer of protection.
Risk of Losing a Device
Falls happen, even to experienced skiers. A secure fit is important to prevent your devices from coming loose on the slopes.
Methods For Keeping Hearing Aids Protected
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Wear a headgear or ear covering: A ski helmet with ear flaps, or a warm headband, can shield Hearing Aids from air, moisture, and force.
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Apply retention clips or sports locks: These small accessories help to keep hearing aids secure during movement.
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Newer models are often better equipped to withstand moisture than older Hearing Aids.
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A dehumidifier can be used to remove moisture from your devices overnight.
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Have spare batteries or a charger: Cold weather decreases battery efficiency, so backup power is necessary.
Circumstances For Taking Hearing Aids Off
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You’re doing high-speed runs where wind noise is overwhelming.
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Your older devices are very sensitive to moisture.
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You are skiing in wet conditions.
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You do not have retention accessories and are worried about device loss.
Leaving devices off while skiing and reinserting them indoors is a choice. It’s your decision, and both approaches can work.
Making A Personal Choice About Hearing Aids
Many people comfortably wear hearing aids while skiing by following the right precautions. If communication and situational awareness matter most to you, keeping them in may be the better choice. If you’re worried about moisture or device loss, you might opt to keep them shielded until you’re off the mountain.
Your hearing care provider can offer guidance and develop a safety plan for your devices this winter. Reach out to us to schedule an appointment or a hearing test.