Spring is the perfect time to enjoy a picnic with family and friends, but for hearing aid wearers, it’s important to be prepared for outdoor adventures. You’ll need to keep your devices safe, clean, and in top condition to make the most of your afternoon in the sun. Here are some picnic essentials we think you should pack for your next picnic.
Hearing Aid Essentials for a Picnic
If you’re spending an hour outside you may not need much preparation. But if you’re heading to the lake with the family or you’re planning for a full day outdoors there are a few things you may want to pack:
- Hearing Aid Cleaning Kit: If you’re out for the whole day, you should consider packing your cleaning kit. This includes a brush, wax pick, and a soft cloth to remove any earwax or debris that may accumulate throughout the day.
- Extra Batteries: Carrying extra batteries is essential for hearing aid wearers. Outdoor activities and extended use can drain batteries faster. Make sure to pack spare batteries to avoid any inconvenience and ensure uninterrupted hearing throughout the picnic.
- Hearing Aid Case: A sturdy and protective hearing aid case is vital for storing your devices safely during breaks or when not in use. Opt for a case that can withstand outdoor elements while keeping your hearing aids secure.
Communication Tools for Better Picnic Participation
Along with your hearing aids, you may also want to pack tools for better communication. This could include:
- Portable Assistive Listening Device (ALD): ALDs are beneficial for hearing aid wearers, especially in noisy outdoor settings. Pack a personal ALD, such as a pocket-sized FM system or a Bluetooth streaming device, that can wirelessly transmit sound directly to your hearing aids. This will ensure clear and amplified communication.
- Smartphone with Speech-to-Text App: A speech-to-text app can help you make sense of what’s been said, even if background noise makes it harder to follow conversations.
- Pen and Paper: In case there are communication challenges or misunderstandings, having a pen and paper on hand can ensure better communication with others during the picnic.
Noise Management and Safety Considerations
Don’t forget about safety! You may want to pack:
- Noise-Canceling Earmuffs or Earplugs: Picnics can get loud, especially in crowded parks or near live music performances. To protect your hearing and reduce noise exposure, consider packing noise-canceling earmuffs or earplugs. These can help filter out excessive noise while still allowing you to enjoy conversations and ambient sounds.
- Sunscreen and Hat: Protecting your skin from the sun is important, but don’t forget your ears! Apply sunscreen to the exposed parts of your ears and wear a wide-brimmed hat to shield them from harmful UV rays. Sunburn on the ears can be painful and cause discomfort when wearing hearing aids.
- Waterproof Hearing Aid Covers: If your picnic involves activities near water, consider using waterproof covers specifically designed for hearing aids. These covers protect your devices from water splashes, sweat, and humidity, preventing any damage that could affect their functionality.
Communication Tips for Enjoying the Picnic
Let your picnic companions know about your hearing loss and provide them with communication strategies. Encourage them to speak clearly, face you directly when talking, and avoid talking over each other to make conversations more accessible.
If you feel overwhelmed by noise or tired from listening efforts, don’t hesitate to take short breaks. Use this time to recharge, clean your hearing aids, or adjust any settings to optimize your hearing experience for the remainder of the picnic.
Visit Us for Support
With proper planning and the right essentials, hearing aid wearers can fully enjoy a picnic with clear hearing. Take a moment to adjust your packing list and include your hearing aid essentials. Then go out there and have fun!
If you have any concerns about your hearing aids or need additional support, visit us for all your hearing aids needs.