It’s Halloween season, and with Halloween season comes candy, costumes, and – you guessed it – hearing aid safety. Every parent knows the basics of safe trick or treating (look both ways before crossing the street, travel in groups, wear bright and reflective clothing) but for parents with hard of hearing children, there’s more to consider.
These extra tips may come in handy.
1. According to Starkey: check hearing aids before leaving the house.
“If your child wears hearing aids, make sure the hearing aids are functioning properly before you leave the house. Confirm the volume level is comfortable for your child, and be sure to remove any debris from the ear mold, tubing and hearing aid casing.”
Since trick or treating is a long, outside event, parents should be sure hearing aids are working to their full potential. It’s also a good idea to check batteries before leaving and bring a few extra ones for the road.
2. Plan out costumes well in advance.
Costumes are often the best part of the season, but they can also cause difficulties with hearing devices. Masks and face coverings can cover or dislodge hearing aids. Facepaint may be a better option for unobstructed hearing.
3. Consider decorating your hearing aids.
Make them a part of your costume, or decorate just to show off! Just be sure to use easily removable material and keep the microphone ports clear.
Phonak’s Hearing Like Me blog has a tutorial video about how to safely decorate hearing aids.
4. Most importantly – have a good time!
If you have a child with hearing loss, make sure to let them know that while following a few simple Halloween safety tips, they can still participate in all the Halloween fun.