Skiing represents a winter activity many anticipate all year, and for good reason! However, for those who rely on hearing aids, it is natural to question the security and practicality of wearing them while on the mountain. Skiing with your hearing aids is entirely feasible, assuming you take some simple precautions to guard your devices and preserve your hearing. Today, we’ll look at a few items to evaluate before hitting the slopes.
Advantages of Maintaining Hearing Aids on the Slopes
Increased Safety and Attention
Ensuring high situational awareness is essential for skiing. The ability to hear approaching skiers, instructors, or lift operators will help keep you safe. Wearing your hearing aids may help you hear more clearly, particularly in busy areas like lift lines or ski school zones.
Improved Communication With Your Companions
Maintaining your hearing aids in simplifies communication when you are skiing with your group or an instructor. Listening for instructions, warnings, or plan changes clearly reduces the annoyance of miscommunication.
Engaging Comfortably in the Lodge
Utilizing your hearing aids ensures that you can engage and interact with staff while in the lodge.
Examining Possible Challenges
Challenges Posed by Cold Weather
Extreme cold can affect battery performance and cause devices to drain more quickly. While hearing aids generally tolerate winter conditions, it’s prudent to keep spare batteries or a portable charger on hand.
Exposure To Dampness And Moisture
Snow can melt and cause moisture to enter the microphone or battery compartment. Water-resistant hearing aids assist, but no device is completely waterproof. Helmets, or ear coverings add an extra level of protection.
Risk Of Dropping A Device
Falls happen, even to experienced skiers. Ensuring a secure fit is vital to prevent the loss of your devices while skiing.
How to Keep Hearing Aids Safe While Skiing
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Headgear with ear flaps, or a warm headband, offers protection from wind, moisture, and impact.
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Use retention clips or sports locks: These small accessories help to keep hearing aids secure during activity.
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Newer models are often better designed 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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Keep spare batteries or a charger: Cold weather decreases battery efficiency, so backup power is necessary.
Scenarios For Taking Hearing Aids Off
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Wind noise is overwhelming during high-speed runs.
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Your older devices are very sensitive to moisture.
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You’re skiing in heavy snow or wet 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 common strategy. It’s your decision, and both approaches can work.
Concluding Thoughts On Winter Sports And Hearing Aids
You can wear hearing aids while skiing, and many people do so easily with the right precautions in place. If you prioritize communication and awareness, keeping your aids may be the best option. Concerns about moisture or device loss could make you 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. Call us to book a consultation.