Like with anything you rely on regularly, maintenance is essential for proper hearing aid function. Taking the time to clean and care for them will extend their life. If the COVID-19 epidemic has you uncertain of what to do with your hearing aids, read on for answers to some of the more frequent questions on the topic. 

4 Important Hearing Aid Questions

What are common reasons behind hearing aid issues? 

The main cause behind failing hearing aids is earwax that collects in the speaker. Checking for debris in this opening should be the first step when trying to pinpoint a problem. Weak or dead batteries are another common factor to look out for when the device isn’t functioning properly. 

How do I keep my hearing aid clean and running?

A brush with soft bristles can be used to clear wax build-up. If you have alcohol-free cleaning solutions, particularly those formulated for hearing products, you can use them to clean earmolds. Remember to perform cleanings in the morning, so the device has had enough time to dry out. Avoid getting water on anything. 

Why do I need to always wear my hearing aids if I live alone?

Most of our hearing takes place in the brain, not the ears. It’s important to make sure your brain is regularly exposed to sounds at a “normal” level, as opposed to the level experienced by people with hearing loss and no aids. This ensures the brain can properly categorize what it's hearing. 

Using hearing products only on occasion may lead to excessive noise; the brain can’t make sense of all the stimuli. This often leads to people using their assistive devices even less, making matters worse.

Should I get my hearing tested in an office?

No. During COVID-19, going to an audiologist or hearing health care provider is a risk that isn’t worth taking. Getting infected would lead to a host of health complications that far exceed the difficulties of hearing issues. Beyond that, if you and your provider are wearing masks, the accuracy of any testing could be compromised. 

If you’re having issues with maintaining your hearing aids, or you need new ones, turn to the experts at Heartland Better Hearing Inc in Elizabethtown, KY. The company offers a wide range of products tailored for users dealing with hearing loss. To talk to their hearing instrument specialists, call (270) 735-9352, or visit them online to learn more about their services.