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The best questions about playing sports and wearing hearing aids
Sports and Hearing Loss
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I'm a runner in track and field, and I do sprints (100m, 200m, Hurdles). My hearing device keeps flopping everywhere.
What can I do about it BESIDES a head band, because I've tried that and it doesn't work. It covers my microphone and I can't hear properly.
A.D.
Toronto, ON
Sports that involve lots of fast or sudden movements do pose a challenge when wearing hearing aids on the field or in the gym. One solution would be to try 'wig' tape, which is a special two-sided tape designed to keep wigs in place. A small piece can be applied to the inside of the hearing aid housing and then, when the aid and earmold are properly seated in your ear, simply press the hearing aid to the bony area behind your ear, allowing the wig tape to adhere to your skin. If you do try this solution, be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for determining possible sensitivities or allergies before using. Wig tape can be purchased at a beauty supply store or at department stores where wigs are sold.
What is the best hockey helmet to protect your ears and hearing aids?
J.R.
Islay, AB
For a contact sport like hockey, there are several things you should consider:
- When you buy a helmet, be sure to wear your hearing aids and have the helmet fitted by a professional or follow the fitting guidelines that are printed in the instructions.
- Helmets vary in style and interior features so you might have to try several on to see which one fits best when you are wearing your hearing aids.
- Whatever name brand you use, make sure it is CSA approved.
- If you are not already doing so, an earmold made of soft material is a good idea when playing sports in case your ear is hit. Hard earmolds can shatter if hit and can be very uncomfortable if your ear gets pushed or pulled. The soft mold is more pliable and will not shatter.
- To avoid losing your hearing aids and to keep them from getting sweaty and gross, you can use Ear Gear, which is a hearing aid safety device. It is like a spandex glove that fits over the hearing aid and it has a small tether and clip so it can be attached to your collar. If the hearing aid gets knocked off of your ear it won't fall to the ice or get lost.