HEARING LOSS AND TRAVEL

Whether traveling by car, bus, or plane, there’s always the chance of something unexpected just around the corner. If you’re traveling with hearing loss, chances are even higher. From missed gate changes and trouble communicating to feeling unsafe in a fast-paced, unfamiliar environment, planning ahead is essential for carefree adventures. The good news is, there are plenty of steps you can take to prepare and make traveling with hearing loss smooth sailing. If you believe your hearing abilities may be standing between you and your destination, a hearing screening is also a great place to start your journey.

Air travel can most certainly put a strain on your ears. Added pressure and loud cabin noise can make hearing more difficulty, especially if you already have some level of hearing loss. To help make traveling more comfortable and to avoid causing further damage to your ears, use ear plugs or noise-canceling headphones during your flight. It can also be helpful to sit closer to the front of the plane where it can be quieter. If you experience popping in your ears, chewing gum, yawning and swallowing can all help to relieve pressure.

Wearing your hearing aids while traveling is the best way to ensure a smooth, successful journey. Make sure to pack additional batteries and bring all of your hearing aid accessories, such as charging stations, extra tubing and, if you’ll be in a humid environment, a dryer. Wear your hearing aids at all times, even through security and on the plane, to get the most out of your experience.

Today’s modern hearing aids are intelligent and have functionalities that recognize and adjust to any environment, no matter where your adventures may take you. Whether on a flight, in a bus or cruising down the open road, hearing aids ensure a safe, comfortable and rewarding experience. Motion sensors, for example, detect and adjust to your movement, making it easier to hear sounds from all directions and avoid dangerous situation in unfamiliar surroundings. If you struggle with tinnitus, hearing aids can also be beneficial when flying. They can reduce your awareness of tinnitus symptoms and some even come with tinntius relief programs. Explore the world of hearing aid technology, and say goodbye to missed announcements and hello to new adventures.