Going to the Northwest Medical Center or other hospital with hearing loss can feel a little tricky. Hearing loss requires you to make adjustments throughout the day to understand and communicate with others. One way you can make your hospital experience run smoothly is to wear hearing aids.
The Centers for Disease Control found that 7.1% of people age 45 and over used a hearing aid in 2019.[1] If you wear hearing aids and are preparing to spend time in the hospital, look at our list of tips to make the most of your devices during your stay.
Bring Spare Batteries or a Charger
Fully charged hearing aids will provide the clearest sound. If your devices use disposable batteries, pack a few extras; if they have rechargeable batteries, double-check that you have their charging case and a cord to plug it in.
Don’t Forget Your Cleaning Kit
It’s easy to forget to clean your hearing aids at the hospital. Pack your cleaning kit and set an alarm each day to remind you to clean your devices.
Designate a Hearing Aid Storage Spot
The combination of leaving your bed for exams or imaging and taking your devices out while you sleep can make it easy to lose your hearing aids. Place your hearing aids in their case and keep them in the same spot every night. If you need to take your hearing aids out for an MRI, CT scan or other test that bars metal, make sure you have them before you leave the room.
Tell Hospital Staff About Your Hearing Loss
Telling your health care team about your hearing loss and hearing aids will give them the information they need to help you; they can practice effective communication strategies and potentially help you clean your hearing aids.
Enjoy the Amplification
Hearing aids are an excellent tool for communicating with hospital staff and visitors. Enjoy amplified speech and greater awareness of your surroundings during your hospital stay. For more information on caring for your hearing aids, contact Arizona Hearing Specialists today.
[1] Madans, J. H., Weeks, J. D., & Elgaddal, N. (2021, July). Hearing difficulties among adults: United States, 2019 (NCHS Data Brief No. 414). National Center for Health Statistics. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db414.htm