It is important to know how to keep hearing aids from falling out. Your hearing aids are only useful if you wear them all the time. But did you know most people who need hearing aids do not use them? According to a study in the International Journal of Audiology, as many as 80% of people who could benefit from hearing aids don’t wear them.
This article is for anyone who wants to learn how to keep hearing aids from falling out.
Why do my hearing aids keep dropping out?
There are lots of reasons hearing aids can slip out. Some of them are easy to fix so we’ve put a checklist together for you:
Your hearing aids don’t fit well
First, ensure your hearing aids are properly put on. If following the step-by-step instructions has not worked, watch the video demonstration for your brand. It could be that you have not secured your hearing aids properly. If in doubt, remove and reinsert them.
Moisture could be the culprit
When you have been exercising or using your hearing aids in high humidity, moisture could be the problem. Hearing aids are designed to work best in a dry environment. If they keep slipping off due to moisture or perspiration, remove your hearing aids, and dry your skin and devices before reinserting them.
Do you have excess ear wax?
If you know your hearing aids have been inserted properly and you are keeping them dry, ear wax buildup could be to blame. Excess ear wax can push the hearing aid receiver out of your ear. Because of the risks of removing ear wax build-up, it is safest to consult your doctor.
Movement
Are your hearing aids falling out when you perform a particular activity? Periods of high activity, such as exercise, can dislodge your hearing aids. You should get used to wearing them while you are sedentary.
Your ear shape
Once you have determined that you are wearing your hearing aids correctly, it’s time to consider other factors. Some people may have an unusual ear shape that affects the comfort level of their hearing aids. You may need to make different adjustments to find the comfort level and fit that works for you.
How To Keep Hearing Aids From Falling Out: Accessories To Try
A range of products and hearing aid accessories is available if you can’t keep hearing aids from falling out. Not everyone can afford custom-molded hearing aids - but don’t worry. You can apply a hearing aid fixer to get maximal use from your hearing aids - without the need to consult an audiologist.
● Hearing aid clips to prevent loss
You can use hearing aid clips to prevent loss. These hearing aid accessories are the bridge between your clothing and hearing devices. Hearing aid clips for seniors and children can secure your devices so they do not fall out.
Hearing aid clips are small and lightweight. You can use them daily to prevent losing your OTC hearing aids by attaching the device to your clothing.
● Ear grips and support accessories
Manufacturers usually make ear grips or locks out of silicone or plastic. They attach to your hearing device around the inside of your ear. Grips are handy when you move around or do an activity that could cause your hearing aid to move - like eating.
Need to know how to keep hearing aids from falling out during exercise? A hearing aid sports lock is ideal for active people. It keeps the receiver wire in place when you are active.
● Hearing aid lanyards and straps
When using a behind-the-ear device, you can also use a lanyard cord to secure your hearing aids. The lanyard works similarly to what you would use to keep your glasses in place. Hearing aid lanyards are discreet and are available in different colors, which you can match with your clothing.
● Hearing aid sweatbands
We understand that living a balanced life involves regular exercise. If movement and perspiration make it difficult to keep your hearing aid in place, consider using a sweatband. A hearing aid sweatband absorbs excess moisture, helping to keep your devices secure.
These hearing aid accessories can help you prevent loss. But they also serve another important purpose. With an ear grip or hearing aid clip, you also ensure even weight distribution on your device. This makes your hearing aid more comfortable to wear.
What Holds A Hearing Aid In Place?
Over the counter hearing aids have been carefully designed to keep them in place. Here are some of the design features that keep a hearing aid in place:
- Ear hooks
Behind-the-ear hearing aids often have a plastic tube that connects the device to the speaker.
- Retention tail
A retention tail anchors your hearing aid inside your ear.
- Retention wire
The retention wire fits between the hearing device and the back of your ear.
- Retainer
The retainer, a plastic structure, sits in the bowl of your ear and helps keep the hearing aid in place.
What to Do If Your Hearing Aids Still Falling Out
If you have tried hearing aid accessories and your hearing aids are still falling out, consider if it’s time for new devices. You should replace your hearing aids every five to seven years. One of the biggest reasons is that your ear shape changes over time.
Conclusion
If you want to know how to keep hearing aids from falling out, first make some practical adjustments to wearing them. In the event this doesn’t work, consider hearing aid accessories like clips, grips, or lanyards to keep them secure.
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