Hearing loss is a condition that many of us may experience as we age. This can be due to activity that exposes you to loud, sustained noise or an episode that damages your ears.
Although there is no cure for permanent hearing loss, there are treatments such as hearing aids.
For those who have mild to severe hearing loss, hearing aids are a daily quality of life solution.
But, if you engage in aquatic activities or want to leave your hearing aids in while in the shower, you may wonder, are hearing aids waterproof?
Can they take these devices to the shower? To the pool? And what happens when it rains while you’re wearing your hearing aids?
This article will explore whether hearing aids are waterproof or not as well as some other important information on this topic.
Are Hearing Aids Waterproof?
Whether hearing aids are waterproof or water-resistant or not depends on various factors.
Although hearing aids are not generally guaranteed to be waterproof, some models are.
Unfortunately, only a few hearing aids on the market today can genuinely be considered waterproof. That is despite the fact that having waterproof hearing aids would be a desirable feature. But what about water resistance?
Are Hearing Aids Water Resistant?
The majority of hearing aids, on the other hand, are water-resistant. That means they should not be completely submerged in water but can withstand some amount of moisture.
Again, most hearing aids currently available on the market are resistant to moisture but are not entirely waterproof. So, what does this mean for you?
Well, this means your device is likely not intended to be worn in the shower or while swimming. However, a few drops of rain or sweat from a workout won’t harm them.
Tips for Hearing Aid Users
It is not easy for those who lead active lifestyles to constantly shield their hearing aids from moisture.
If you are this type of person, you ought to consider purchasing a hearing aid that is resistant to moisture. These electronic devices are resistant to damage caused by moisture such as humidity, sweat, rain, and even light splashes of water.
Which Hearing Aid is Waterproof?
As mentioned, although rare, waterproof hearing aids do exist!
At the moment, there is only one model available to choose from.
The Aquaris model made by Siemens is the only hearing aid that can truly be considered waterproof. This model is completely sealed against the elements, including dust.
It has a completely waterproof housing, and the battery door has an extremely tight seal that prevents moisture, dust, and sweat from entering. That ensures no seams, cracks, or other openings through which water could get in.
The battery compartment has a silicone seal that prevents water from getting inside. Because zinc-air batteries require oxygen, a semipermeable membrane prevents water from entering the battery while still allowing air to enter.
However, it is on the more expensive end of the market. What are the other options?
Cheaper Alternatives to Buying Waterproof Hearing Aids
These are other less expensive options.
First, you can also coat your hearing aid with a product such as NanoBlock, a very thin material that bonds to the surface of the hearing aid and prevents water from being absorbed.
Otherwise, you can buy a nylon, cloth, or disposable latex cover. Then, fit in on your hearing aid during exercise or when outdoors in the heat.
You can purchase these covers. Even though they are not entirely waterproof, these will protect the hearing aids from sweat, dirt, dust, and any water that may accidentally get on them.
Although there is only one waterproof hearing aid, there will likely be more options soon. Hearing aid technology is getting better, and waterproof hearing aids may soon be a common thing.