Before summer begins, it’s important to have your hearing aids checked and, if necessary, serviced or adjusted so that they can handle the summer’s temperatures and challenges. Visit your hearing care professional, who is always there to offer advice. The hearing care professional can ensure that all parts are working properly and that the devices are optimally adjusted to your hearing needs.

In addition, it may be worth considering special hearing aids that are water-resistant if, for example, you regularly participate in water sports. Your hearing care professional will be happy to help you find the right model for you—one that meets your needs and allows you to enjoy swimming or other sports activities with peace of mind.

The key difference lies in the level of protection against moisture and water, as well as the specific conditions under which a hearing aid can be used safely. A water-resistant hearing aid is designed to be protected against occasional splashes and moisture, such as raindrops and sweat.

A waterproof hearing aid, on the other hand, offers a higher level of protection and can be completely submerged in water for extended periods without sustaining damage. Modern hearing aids are often manufactured with “IP68 certification.” This means the hearing aid is dustproof and can also be briefly submerged for up to 30 minutes in water up to 1.5 meters deep. Even the latest hearing implants feature this capability. In general, however, caution is still advised—especially with saltwater, which is considered particularly corrosive. This is because salt crystals can accumulate inside the device and thus impair its functionality. Currently, there are no hearing aids that are permanently waterproof. For the audio processor in hearing implants, there are special protective covers designed to shield the device, which rests against the head. It is important to follow the specific manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines to ensure that the hearing aid or cochlear implant meets the recommended conditions. If you have any questions, consult your hearing care professional.

If a hearing aid that does not have an IP rating gets wet, it is best to contact your hearing care professional. They will then perform professional drying to prevent the water from causing further damage to the hearing aid. For minor mishaps, so-called drying capsules or drying boxes prove to be extremely helpful. In any case, you should always remove the battery from the hearing aid before starting the drying process.

Many people associate summer with music—and for good reason! Musical events are a staple—albeit a loud one—of summer fun. Attending such events can be a challenge for people who wear hearing aids, but with the right tips, you, too, can fully enjoy the experience:

Earplugs or hearing protection can reduce ambient noise while preserving sound quality. There are also special hearing protection products designed for hearing aid users, such as custom-molded earplugs or hearing protection earplugs. To avoid hearing strain, the hearing aid should be set to an appropriate volume. Many modern hearing aids feature automatic adjustments or manual settings for volume limiting. With the help of a hearing care professional, the devices can be specifically adjusted for loud environments, thereby reducing the noise level.

In addition to technical protection, there are also practical tips that can enhance your festival experience:

• Preparation is key: Unexpected situations can happen at any time and, unfortunately, tend to occur at the most inopportune moments. Therefore, it doesn’t hurt to have a small emergency kit for your hearing aids on hand during the summer. Essential items include spare batteries, cleaning supplies, and a drying case in case your hearing aids get wet.
• Clothes make the man: Comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes are a must to ensure you can get around comfortably and safely all day long. It’s also a good idea to pack a hat to protect your hearing aids from both excessive sunlight and rain.
• The right company: If you go to the festival with friends or family, you’ll have someone by your side in loud and crowded areas. Plus, we all know that shared happiness is double the happiness.

If you don't currently wear hearing aids but suspect you may have hearing problems after attending a loud event, we recommend that you get a hearing test. With our search service, you can find not only a hearing care professional but also a qualified ENT doctor near you.

Summer offers plenty of opportunities for adventure and relaxation, and that goes for hearing aid users, too. With the right preparation and care, you can ensure that your hearing aids are up to the challenges of the warmer months. Have your hearing aids checked regularly and use the correct settings to ensure the best hearing experience. We hope you have a great time and enjoy a wonderful summer!