Are Waterproof Hearing Aids Worth the Upgrade?
Whether you’re spending the summer on the golf course, hiking local trails, or enjoying time at the pool, your hearing aids play an important role in helping you stay connected. If you’re active outdoors, you may be wondering whether waterproof hearing aids are worth considering.
Are Hearing Aids Waterproof?
Many people assume today’s hearing aids are waterproof, but that’s not always the case. Most modern hearing aids are water resistant, meaning they’re designed to withstand everyday exposure to sweat, humidity, light rain, and accidental splashes. However, they should not be submerged in water or worn while swimming or showering.
Some manufacturers do offer hearing aids with waterproof capabilities, making them a good option for individuals with particularly active lifestyles or those who spend significant time around water.
Understanding IP Ratings
If you’re unsure how much moisture your hearing aids can handle, check their IP (Ingress Protection) rating. This rating measures how well a device is protected against dust and water.
The first number indicates protection against dust, while the second measures resistance to moisture. Most hearing aids have ratings between IP57 and IP67, providing excellent protection against everyday moisture. Devices rated IP68 offer the highest level of water resistance available in hearing aids and are often considered waterproof.
If you aren’t sure what rating your hearing aids have, your ENT specialist or hearing care provider can help you determine the level of protection your devices offer.
Are Waterproof Hearing Aids Right for You?
Waterproof hearing aids may be beneficial if you:
- Exercise frequently or perspire heavily
- Spend time boating, fishing, or participating in water sports
- Work outdoors in humid or wet environments
- Want added peace of mind during everyday activities
Even with waterproof technology, hearing aids remain sophisticated electronic devices. Removing them before swimming, showering, or prolonged submersion can help extend their lifespan and reduce the risk of damage.
Explore Your Options
If your hearing aids aren’t keeping up with your lifestyle, it may be time to explore newer technology. Today’s hearing aids offer improved durability, moisture resistance, and performance in a wide range of environments.
At Benjamin D. Liess, MD, FACS, our team can help you determine whether your current devices are meeting your needs or if newer technology may be a better fit for your lifestyle. We also provide hearing aid maintenance, cleanings, and repairs for the people of Scarborough, Portland, Falmouth, and the surrounding areas.
Contact our team today to schedule an appointment and learn more about hearing solutions designed to keep up with your active life.