Wearing a Mask with Hearing Aids

Wearing a face mask in public has become necessary these days because of the COVID-19 pandemic. This has made it quite challenging for people with hearing loss to talk to others wearing masks, as they cover lip-reading cues and muffle sounds. Also, over-the-ear masks increase the chances of misplacing behind-the-ear hearing aids when the mask is removed. Here’s a guide to help you understand how to manage your hearing devices when wearing a mask.

Things to Consider When Wearing a Mask

• Remove Your Mask Carefully Don’t remove your face mask too quickly. Take it off slowly and carefully so that you don’t accidentally pull out your hearing device.
• Choose Face Masks with Fabric Ties Fabric ties that do up behind your head may not cause as much interference with your hearing aids as elastic ear loops. The ties can also be easily tightened or loosened.
• Use a Mask Extender A mask extender is a small piece of plastic or cloth that sits at the back of your head or behind your neck. The ear loops are then attached to each end of the extender, keeping them off your ears. They are an excellent way to stop the loops from interfering with your hearing aids.

Communicating When Wearing a Mask

Here are a few tips to make communication easier when using a face mask:

• Speak slowly and precisely and ensure that you are audible. Ask the other person to speak at normal volume as well.
• Do not hesitate to let the speaker know if you do not understand them.
• Ensure that your hearing aids are charged, working well, and turned on.
• Find somewhere with minimal background noise, so it doesn’t hinder the conversation.
• Take turns when speaking to avoid confusion and talking at once.
• Adhere to social distancing practices.

Things to Consider If You Knock Off the Hearing Aid Accidentally

• It is essential to remain calm and not panic.
• Use the “Find My Hearing Aid” feature if it is available on your device. You can use the app on your smartphone to get information about where it may be located. This is particularly helpful if you didn’t notice it was missing right away.
• If you don’t have this feature, be patient and take your time when looking for the hearing aid. Try and remember where you may have been when it fell out and begin looking. If you were in a store when it fell out, contact that location and see if they have found it.
• If you absolutely cannot find your hearing aid, reach out to your hearing specialist to see if your device is included under a loss and damage policy.

Bravo Hearing Offers a Wide Range of Hearing Aids

At Bravo Hearing, our specialists ensure you get the best solution for your hearing loss. We work with each patient to better understand their specific needs and address them accordingly so they can enjoy a better life. We carry the latest hearing aids and accessories by major brands such as Phonak, Siemens, Starkey, Oticon, and more.

For more information about the products we provide and our services, feel free to get in touch with us by calling 416-207-9711. Also, you can fill out our online contact form to book a hearing test with us.