Maintaining an Active Lifestyle with Hearing Aids

At Applied Hearing Solutions in Phoenix, we believe hearing loss should never limit your active lifestyle. Modern hearing aid technology has made tremendous advances, allowing our patients to participate fully in all their favorite activities without compromising their hearing experience. Today's hearing aids can withstand the rigors of physical activity while providing exceptional sound quality in various environments.

When selecting hearing aids to complement an active lifestyle, our audiologists consider factors such as battery life, water resistance, and overall durability. We take the time to understand your specific activities and recommend devices that will meet your unique needs, whether you enjoy hiking Arizona's beautiful trails, playing golf, swimming, or traveling.

Understanding Hearing Aid Options for Active Individuals

Selecting the right hearing aid is crucial for maintaining an active lifestyle. At Applied Hearing Solutions, we help you understand the options available and how they align with your specific activities and hearing needs.

Types of Hearing Aids for Active Lifestyles

Receiver-In-Canal (RIC): Models like the Oticon Intent, ReSound Vivia, and Phonak Infinio offer excellent moisture resistance and comfort while remaining secure during movement. These are often our first recommendation for active patients.

Behind-The-Ear (BTE): These hearing aids provide robust performance and are easier to handle for those with dexterity challenges. Many modern BTE devices have excellent IP ratings for moisture and dust resistance.

Custom In-The-Ear (ITE) or In-The-Canal (ITC): For activities where helmet use is common, custom-molded options like certain models from Starkey Edge AI or Signia IX might be preferable as they sit flush with the ear.

Completely-In-Canal (CIC): The most discreet option, these tiny devices fit deep in the ear canal, offering protection from wind noise and staying secure during movement.

Features to Look For

We recommend these key features for our active patients:

• High IP Ratings: The Widex Allure and Phonak Infinio offer IP68 ratings, providing excellent protection against moisture and dust—perfect for Arizona's diverse climate
• Directional Microphones: Essential for outdoor activities where you need to focus on specific sounds
• Wind Noise Reduction: Particularly important for cyclists and runners
• Rechargeable Batteries: Convenient for travel and eliminating the need to change tiny batteries
• Bluetooth Connectivity: Allows for hands-free phone calls and music streaming during activities

Benefits of Staying Active with Properly Fitted Hearing Aids

At Applied Hearing Solutions, we verify all hearing aid fittings with Real Ear Measurements, ensuring optimal performance during your activities.

Physical Health Advantages

• Safety During Exercise: Properly fitted hearing aids help you maintain spatial awareness while running or cycling
• Balanced Movement: Better hearing contributes to improved balance and coordination
• Group Fitness Participation: Hear instructor cues clearly during fitness classes

Mental Health and Social Benefits

• Increased Confidence: Knowing you can hear well in various environments reduces anxiety
• Social Connection: Participate fully in group activities without missing conversations
• Cognitive Stimulation: Staying physically and socially engaged supports brain health

Incorporating Hearing Aids into Specific Activities

Our patients in Phoenix enjoy a wide range of activities. Here's how we help them integrate hearing aids into their active lifestyles.

Fitness Activities with Hearing Aids

For gym workouts, running, or cycling in Phoenix's urban areas:

• ReSound Vivia's moisture-resistant design and AI-driven sound processing excel in fitness environments
• Oticon Intent with its 4D User-Intent Sensors adapts automatically as you move between exercise stations
• Consider using hearing aid sweatbands during intense workouts in our hot climate

Outdoor Adventures

For hiking, camping, or golfing in Arizona's diverse landscapes:

• Phonak Infinio's dual-chip architecture provides exceptional environmental awareness on trails
• Starkey Edge AI offers fall detection and alerts—valuable safety features for solo hikers
• Widex Allure's Sound Classifier helps you stay aware of wildlife and other hikers

Water-Based Activities and Precautions

For swimming, boating, or water aerobics:

• While most hearing aids are water-resistant (not waterproof), we can fit you with specialized aquatic protection
• Custom earmolds or swim molds can protect your ears during water activities
• After pool time, use our professional Redux dehydration service to remove any moisture from your devices

Care and Maintenance for Active Hearing Aid Users

Our audiologists at Applied Hearing Solutions provide comprehensive guidance on maintaining your hearing aids during an active lifestyle.

Daily Maintenance Routines

For Phoenix's Unique Climate:

• In our dry environment, clean your hearing aids daily to remove dust and debris
• Use the cleaning tools provided with your devices to keep microphone ports and receivers clear
• Check battery contacts regularly, as our dry climate can accelerate dust accumulation

Managing Moisture and Sweat

Preventing Moisture Damage:

• During monsoon season, use a hearing aid dehumidifier every night
• After workouts, wipe down your devices and open the battery compartment (if applicable)
• Consider our professional Redux dehydration service quarterly or after heavy moisture exposure

Longevity and Professional Care

At Applied Hearing Solutions, we provide:

• Regular professional cleanings to extend device life
• Electroacoustic analysis using Test Box Measures to verify performance
• Programming adjustments to accommodate changing activities
• Replacement of wax guards, domes, and other components
• Comprehensive service plans to protect your investment

Schedule Your Active Lifestyle Hearing Consultation

Don't let hearing loss limit your active lifestyle in Phoenix. At Applied Hearing Solutions, our audiologists follow Best Practice protocols to ensure your hearing aids are optimally programmed using Real Ear Measurements, providing the best possible performance during all your activities.

We understand the unique challenges of Arizona's climate and can recommend hearing aid solutions specifically suited to your lifestyle. From hiking Camelback Mountain to playing golf year-round or swimming during our hot summers, we'll help you find hearing technology that enhances every experience.

Call Applied Hearing Solutions at (602) 877-0000 to schedule a consultation with one of our audiologists. We'll help you discover how the latest hearing aid technology can support your active lifestyle and keep you connected to the sounds you love.