Whether you enjoy running marathons, camping and hiking in the woods or just walking around your neighborhood in the evenings, you are likely familiar with the many benefits of living an active lifestyle. It’s good for your physical and mental health, and even your emotional wellbeing. There’s no reason that hearing loss should interfere with your ability to pursue the healthy activities you enjoy, even if you wear hearing aids.
In fact, a study published in The American Journal of Medicine in 2017 reported that researchers found that physical activity, such as swimming, walking and aerobics, was associated with decreased risk of hearing loss in female participants.
If you enjoy an active lifestyle, there is no reason to let hearing loss or your hearing aids slow you down. Choosing the right hearing aid and accessories that can keep up with you every step of the way will make you feel more secure when you head out the door.
Hearing loss and an active lifestyle
In your daily life, a hearing aid or other assistive device may help you enjoy conversations, TV shows and phone calls. But whether you’re an avid runner or just enjoy regular walks with family members, you may find that participating in these activities with your device in can be a challenge. What if it falls out or stops working?
When you’re going to be away from the house for a longer period of time, your first step before you leave should be to check your battery power of your device. Hearing aids in particular are only helpful for as long as the battery lasts. If you notice that you have to change the battery frequently, consider investing in an option with a longer lifespan. That way you don’t need to worry about your hearing aid dying while you’re out on an adventure.
If you know that your hearing aid isn’t going to run out of steam, but your active lifestyle leaves you with concerns about its durability, there are a number of solutions that you can explore.
The right hearing aid and accessories can help you to maintain a healthy, active lifestyle.Solutions for an active lifestyle
Make sure that your hearing aid can keep up with you by investing in one of the following solutions:
- Water resistance: Generally, water and electronics don’t mix. But if you enjoy activities where your hearing aid may become exposed to water or sweat, you’re not out of options. Look for a device with water resistant features that will help ensure that you can wear it without worries. But remember, water resistance doesn’t mean that you can completely immerse your hearing aid.
- Covers: To protect your existing hearing aid from moisture or other elements, consider a sleeve or cover. These options are generally made from a thin material that protects your device while allowing sound to continue to come through.
- Cords: Are you more worried about losing your hearing aid? A cord may be the right solution. These accessories clip to your device and your shirt or jacket to ensure that if your hearing aid comes out, you’ll be able to quickly locate it.
- Insurance: If your homeowner’s insurance doesn’t cover your hearing aid, consider finding a policy that does. Financially protecting your investment will likely make you feel more secure about being active with it in.
If you are unsure about how to best pursue an active lifestyle while wearing a hearing aid, consult with your physician to learn more about possible solutions.
