Staying active is an important part of self-care. Not only can it help keep your body healthy, but it can also reduce feelings of depression and stress, improve your mood, increase your energy level and even help you sleep.
If you’re one of the 15% of U.S. adults with hearing loss, you might wonder how hearing aids will fit into your workout routine. The good news is that the right hearing aids add to your workout, not take away from it. By choosing a device with features designed for an active lifestyle, you can stay comfortable, focused and motivated.
Key Hearing Aid Features for an Active Lifestyle
When exploring hearing aid options, these six features can make a significant difference in your comfort and overall experience:
- Bluetooth® connectivity. Bluetooth-enabled hearing aids allow you to connect wirelessly to your smartphone or smartwatch. This is ideal for streaming music or following guided fitness videos. If listening to audio while staying active is a priority, look for an easy Bluetooth connection.
- Wind noise reduction. Outdoor environments often come with strong gusts of wind that can interfere with sound clarity. Many hearing aids feature wind noise reduction technology to improve your ability to hear conversations and surrounding sounds during outdoor activities like bike rides along Thomson Trails or hikes on windy mountains.
- Waterproofing. Outdoor activities often expose you to moisture from sweat or rain. Choosing hearing aids with a high water resistance rating can protect your devices from these elements.
- Battery life. For those who spend long hours outdoors, rechargeable hearing aids with extended battery life are ideal. If you’re not able to charge nightly, opt for disposable battery models with longer life cycles.
- Automatic sound adjustment. If your day includes quiet moments and busy environments, look for hearing aids with automatic sound adjustment. These models adapt to changing noise levels, allowing you to shift from a peaceful park walk to a busy bike trail without constantly adjusting your settings.
- Secure fit. An active lifestyle demands hearing aids that stay securely in place. Behind-the-ear (BTE) devices offer stability, especially with retention clips, for added security. Meanwhile, in-the-ear (ITE) or in-the-canal (ITC) models provide a snug fit that is comfortable during low-impact activities. Your hearing specialist can help determine which style suits your needs best.
Choosing the Right Option for You
Selecting the right hearing aid for an active lifestyle means balancing durability, comfort and performance. Consider your specific activities and daily routines to determine which features matter most. If you’re unsure where to start, contact The ENT Center of Central Georgia today to schedule a hearing aid consultation with one of our specialists.
