Beverly Hills Hearing Center was founded in 1983 by Bonnie Baehr. Prior to that, Dr. Baehr practiced at the House Ear Clinic in Los Angeles as a staff audiologist for seven years. She was involved with diagnostic testing, hearing aid evaluations, research and rehabilitation. Dr. Baehr did her clinical fellowship training at the Veterans Administration Outpatient Clinic in downtown Los Angeles. She is a member of the American Academy of Audiology, American Speech Language and Hearing Association, California Academy of Audiology and Academy of Doctors of Audiology.
Latest posts by Bonnie L. Baehr, Au.D. (see all)
- How Therapy Can Help When Hearing Loss Feels Overwhelming - March 2, 2026
- The Surprising Ways Weather Affects Noise Levels - February 27, 2026
- How to Set Up “Hearing-Safe Mode” on All Your Devices - February 17, 2026
Being outside and enjoying nature is one of life’s greatest pleasures. Regardless of the activity, it’s the perfect way to relax our bodies and minds. Walking, hiking, biking, and even gardening can all be wonderful experiences. The sounds of nature are all around us in the form of the surf kissing the sand, birds singing, and leaves rustling in the wind.
While all of this is true, for those with hearing aids, it can be a challenge. They have to be aware of moisture, wind, and the possibility of environmental noise interfering with their hearing aids. The good news is that by practicing care and preparation, these challenges won’t keep you from enjoying the outdoors.
The Joy of Hearing in Nature
Communing with nature is a singular experience. Sounds such as crickets chirping, laughter with friends, and rustling trees in the breeze are just some of the wonderful noises waiting to be enjoyed.
Outdoor Challenges for Hearing Aid Users
Hearing aid technology has come a long way in the last few decades, but there are still some things to be aware of. By maintaining your awareness, you can take precautions and still get to enjoy the outdoors.
- Moisture and sweat
- Wind and environmental noise
- Temperature changes
- Dust and debris
Moisture and Sweat
Moisture is still a danger to modern-day hearing aids. It can come from sweat, rain, or the air. When it gets inside the hearing aid, it can cause the delicate components to malfunction. It can even cause batteries to malfunction and corrode, too.
Wind and Environmental Noise
Wind noise can be distracting and cause hearing aids to malfunction. When this happens, it can make holding conversations outdoors difficult.
Temperature Changes
These can cause condensation to build up inside the hearing aid. This is particularly true when moving from a cold outdoor environment to a warm indoor space. The moisture can affect sound clarity and prevent the hearing aid from working effectively.
Dust and Debris
When going to the beach or hiking through the woods, it’s important to realize that dust, sand, and other small particles can clog your hearing aid’s microphone and vents, which can affect performance.
Enjoying Outdoor Activities with Hearing Aids
While using hearing aids in the outdoors does come with some challenges, they can be solved with preparation. Below are the best ways to be prepared using your hearing aids outside:
- Protect against moisture
- Clean regularly
- Make sure your hearing aid fits securely
Protect Against Moisture
The weather can have a big impact on how your hearing aid performs. Before heading outdoors, check the weather forecast. If there is rain approaching, wear a hat or hood to help keep your hearing aid dry. If you are exercising, wearing a headband can help keep sweat away from your device. After returning home, use a cloth to gently dry your hearing aids, storing them in a dry, ventilated case.
Clean Regularly
After spending time outdoors, especially in dusty or sandy environments, gently brush or wipe your hearing aids to remove debris. Avoid using water or cleaning products, as these can damage sensitive components. Regular professional maintenance also ensures that your devices continue to function at their best.
Make Sure Your Hearing Aid Fits Securely
If you are participating in sports, make sure your hearing aid fits securely. There are retention clips, sports locks, and hearing aid cords that help keep them seated in your ears. If you are swimming, remove your hearing aids and store them in a waterproof container.
Embracing the Outdoors with Confidence
Modern hearing aids are designed with active lifestyles in mind. With proper care and awareness, users can enjoy the sounds and excitement of outdoor adventures without worry. By taking a few simple precautions, such as protecting against moisture, cleaning devices regularly, and using the right settings, hearing aid users can explore nature, stay active, and make lasting memories with friends and family.
Conclusion
Outdoor activities bring joy, relaxation, and connection to the world around us. For those who use hearing aids, these experiences are even more rewarding when every sound can be heard clearly and comfortably. By caring for hearing devices and planning ahead, anyone can enjoy outdoor life to the fullest, rain or shine.