The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders reports, “Approximately 15% of American adults (37.5 million) aged 18 and over report some trouble hearing.” If you’re among this population and you’re preparing to go on vacation, you may need to do a little extra preparation. Below we review your vacation packing essentials for people with hearing loss.
Hearing Aids
If you wear hearing aids, it’s important that you not only bring your hearing aids, but that you wear them while traveling to your destination. Whether you’re flying out of Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport, taking the train or making a road trip, you’ll want to be aware of what’s happening around you by wearing your devices.
Carrying Case/Charger
When your hearing aids aren’t in your ears, like when you’re swimming or sleeping, it’s essential that you have a place safe to put them. Your carrying case is ideal if you need to stow your hearing aids in a bag while you’re by the pool, but if you have rechargeable hearing aids, you’ll definitely want to bring your charger to dock them in while you’re asleep.
Extra Batteries
The last thing you want is to be left stranded, unable to hear if your batteries die. To prevent this from happening, and to prevent you from having to search around an unfamiliar city to find replacements, we recommend simply packing more batteries than you think you need for your trip, just in case.
Cleaning Kit
You shouldn’t miss any of your daily cleanings, even when you’re on vacation. Your cleaning kit should include a soft, dry, clean cloth for the shell, a wax pick or wire loop for stubborn debris and a soft brush for your battery compartment.
Accessories
Pack any other hearing aid accessories you think you’ll use, like a:
- Dehumidifier
- Battery caddy
- Lanyard (cord and clip)
- Sleeve
Other Communication Tools
If you use other communication tools, like an iPad or other tablet, or paper and pens, be sure to pack these, too.
For more information or to schedule an appointment with a hearing expert, call Heuser Hearing Institute today.