To protect ourselves from COVID-19, there’s a mandatory recommendation to wear a face mask. But Wearing hearing aids with a face mask is challenging. Many hearing aid wearers struggle with hearing aids slipping out of their ears and hearing aids popping out.
Tips on securing hearing aids while wearing a face mask
If you have hearing aids and wearing a face mask is giving you a hard time, this article is for you. Here are some useful tips to secure your hearing aids whilst wearing a face mask.
1. Tie your hair back
The mask will stay in place better if you tie your hair back. This way, the hearing aids won’t be dangling from your ears and they’re less likely to fall out. If your hair is long, you can put it in a bun or ponytail. If your hair is short, you can use bobby pins or clips to secure it back.
You can also try a headband to keep your hair away from your face. Just make sure that the hearing aids are not covered by any hair. You might also want to try using a swimming cap or hair net if your hair is long and covers your hearing aids. Just make sure that the hearing aids are not covered by any material.
2. Make sure you’re using the right face mask
There are many different types of face masks and not all of them will work well with hearing aids. The best type of mask to wear with hearing aids is a loose-fitting one that covers your nose and mouth. Avoid masks that have tight elastic bands or straps, as these can put pressure on your hearing aids and make them fall out.
Another thing to keep in mind is the type of hearing aids you are wearing. If you are wearing Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids, then a face mask with a large opening will be best for you. If you are wearing In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aids, then a face mask with a small opening will be better. If you are not sure which type of hearing aids you have, ask your hearing health professional for help.
3. Wear your hearing aid first
Before you put on your face mask, put your hearing aids in first. This way, you will know that they are secure and won’t fall out when you put the mask on.
4. Try using face mask extenders
If your hearing aids are still falling out, you can try using face mask extenders. These are small pieces of plastic that clip onto the edge of your face mask and hold the hearing aids in place. You can buy face mask extenders online or at your local pharmacy.
5. Frequent checking if the hearing aids are still in place
No matter what tips you use, it’s important to frequently check that the hearing aids are still in place. This way, you’ll know if they’ve fallen out and you can take corrective action. If you’re having trouble keeping your hearing aids in place, talk to your hearing health professional.
6. Do not remove both sides of your mask at once
If you have to remove your mask for any reason, always remove one side at a time. This way, you won’t lose the seal on the mask and all the air will stay in.
You should never just pull the mask off, instead carefully hold your hearing aid with one hand while removing it using another.
7. Use both your hands when removing and putting on your mask to keep the hearing aid intact
When removing or putting on your mask, use both hands. This will help keep the hearing aid in place and it won’t fall out.
8. If you’re also wearing glasses, remove them upwards
If you are also wearing glasses, along with a face mask and a hearing aid, remove them by lifting them upwards. This way, the hearing aids will stay in place and they won’t fall out.
What’s the best face mask to wear with hearing aids?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best face mask to wear with hearing aids depends on the type of hearing aids you have and the type of face mask you are using. However, a loose-fitting face mask that covers your nose and mouth is generally the best option. Avoid masks with tight elastic bands or straps, as these can put pressure on your hearing aids and make them fall out. If you are having trouble keeping your hearing aids in place, talk to your hearing health professional for help.
Following these tips will help keep your hearing aids in place and allow you to wear them comfortably with a face mask. If you are really having trouble keeping your hearing aids in place, talk to your hearing health professional for help. They may be able to suggest other tips or give you a hearing aid that is more secure.
Where to find the right hearing aid for you in the Philippines?
Do you find yourself constantly fixing your hearing aids in place? You may have an ill-suited pair of hearing aids, thus it may be due for an upgrade.
Active Hearing Center is your trusted premier hearing care center in the Philippines where you can find quality and custom-fitted hearing aids. For hearing care and hearing aid inquiries, you may call us at +63 951 617 5897.
