With spring right around the corner, you might already be dreaming of summer travel plans. In fact, now is a good time to start planning. Those of us who live in cold parts of the globe can do well to dream about lying on a beach or hiking through a mossy forest in just a few months. Of the many things to consider when you’re planning your summer adventures, your ability to hear easily and clearly shouldn’t be neglected. Struggling to hear your traveling companions or the people you meet along the way is a sure way to cramp your sojourning style. Don’t unnecessarily risk your safety, comfort, or the good times that await you. A few simple tips can help you prepare to be able to hear clearly and easily in almost any environment.
Plan Wisely
Although hearing aid technology has made it possible to hear in an astounding range of environments and locations, it is still a good idea to look ahead to the situations you might encounter. Making an advance call to your hotels can ensure that they are accommodated in the right way. Each hotel should provide accessibility for hearing impaired guests, but you might need to secure those accommodations ahead of time. Auxiliary aids, telephones that are compatible with hearing aids, and visual alarm clocks are all ways to make your stay easier, and major hotels should be able to secure these features if you would benefit from them. Don’t forget to look ahead at your upcoming activities, as well. If you are visiting a museum, the audio guide should be available for hearing impaired visitors, and many now offer guides that are compatible with hearing aid applications and Bluetooth technology, as well. Simply make a call to the places you’d like to visit and see if they will be able to make the hearing environment easy to hear.
Preventative Packing
Though you might think your aids are the only piece of the hearing puzzle to consider prior to your trip, other items might be smart to bring along, as well. Extra chargers or batteries are a good idea, as well as a storage case, cleaning tools, or extra tubing for some models. In the event that something goes wrong, any of these items might become priceless. Many hearing aids are now waterproof or water resistant in a wide array of environments, but you might want your cleaning tools incase any debris or moisture becomes a problem.
Battery Preparation
Depending where you are traveling, it might be smart to think ahead about battery charging options. Though newer aids have longer battery life that should suit a number of environments, you will still need to charge your hearing aids every so often. Some new models come with a battery charging station that does not require an outlet. If you have access to this technology, it might make a trip to the woods much easier. In other cases, as well, you will likely want to plan ahead to times that will make charging easy for you. For instance, if you are traveling two days in a row, be sure to make a note to yourself that you need to charge your aids overnight (unless you have an outlet in your car!)
Communicate Clearly
No matter where you find yourself, be prepared to advocate for your hearing needs. If you find yourself in an environment that makes hearing difficult, don’t hesitate to speak up. Without letting the others around you know that you are facing a challenge, they may have no idea that any problem exists at all. Simply admitting that you have trouble hearing can solve many problems, and you will be surprised how many people will be sensitive to your needs and accommodating of the communication styles that can help you. And, of course, reach out for support from your traveling companions, friends, and loved ones if you face resistance. Sometimes it helps to have a friendly face in your corner if you’re having trouble hearing in a loud space or noisy environment.
Most importantly, don’t forget to have fun while you’re traveling! Your hearing aids can be a crucial piece of the puzzle to make sure you have a good time. For any repairs or routine hearing aid maintenance, feel free to contact us at Advanced Hearing Solutions.