Attend a FREE hearing test for your chance to win a $500 e-Gift Card! T&Cs apply. Book online today!

Can you wear hearing aids 24 hours a day?

The relevance of continuous hearing aid use
Jan, 21, 2025

Should you wear hearing aids all the time?

Wearing hearing aids consistently is crucial for individuals with hearing loss, influencing daily communication and auditory health. This article explores whether wearing them all the time is beneficial. By examining both the advantages and considerations, Amplifon aims to clarify how continuous use can enhance quality of life and overall well-being.

Medical perspectives on consistent wear

Medical perspectives on the benefits of consistent wear reveal profound advantages for both auditory health and cognitive function.

Enhanced communication and social interaction

Wearing hearing aids continuously enhances communication by amplifying sounds effectively. This improvement allows individuals to engage more comfortably in conversations, both in quiet settings and noisy environments. Clearer auditory input enables better comprehension of speech nuances, contributing to more meaningful social interactions and relationships.

Cognitive benefits

Continuous auditory stimulation provided by hearing aids supports cognitive function. Research indicates that untreated hearing loss is associated with an increased risk of cognitive decline and dementia. By wearing hearing aids consistently, individuals can maintain better cognitive abilities such as memory, attention, and problem-solving skills. This cognitive preservation is particularly crucial as it helps individuals stay mentally sharp and active as they age.

Emotional well-being

Consistent use of hearing aids promotes emotional stability and well-being. Hearing loss often leads to feelings of isolation, frustration, and even depression due to communication barriers. By ensuring continuous access to sound, hearing aids help individuals stay connected to their loved ones, reducing feelings of loneliness and improving overall mental health.

Prevention of auditory deprivation

Auditory deprivation occurs when the brain receives inadequate stimulation due to untreated hearing loss. Wearing hearing aids all the time ensures that the auditory system remains active and engaged, preventing auditory deprivation. This proactive approach helps preserve auditory processing abilities and maintains the brain's ability to interpret sounds accurately over time.

Improved quality of life

Overall, the cumulative effect of wearing hearing aids consistently is an enhanced quality of life. From improved communication and cognitive function to emotional well-being and prevention of auditory decline, continuous use of hearing aids empowers individuals to lead active, fulfilling lives. It enables them to participate fully in social activities, work responsibilities, and leisure pursuits with confidence and ease.

Feasibility of wearing hearing aids 24 hours a day

Wearing hearing aids continuously for 24 hours is not practical, as they should be removed during activities such as showering and sleeping to prevent moisture damage and to allow the ears to rest. Additionally, most rechargeable hearing aids require regular charging, typically overnight, to maintain optimal functionality. Modern hearing aids are designed for comfort during extended wear, featuring lightweight materials and adjustable settings. Proper care, including regular charging and maintenance, ensures reliable performance throughout the day.

Take an online hearing test now Start your free hearing test

When should continuous wear be avoided?

Continuous wear may not be advisable in certain situations, particularly where exposure to excessive moisture is prevalent. For example, activities like swimming or showering can pose risks to the functionality of hearing aids, potentially leading to damage or malfunction. In such cases, it's recommended to remove hearing aids to prevent water ingress and ensure their longevity and effectiveness.

Similarly, wearing hearing aids during sleep may not be necessary for some individuals and could lead to discomfort or pressure sores on the ears. Therefore, it's generally recommended to remove hearing aids before sleeping to allow the ears to rest and to prevent any potential discomfort. This practice also helps in maintaining the hygiene and longevity of the hearing aids.

Practical advice and considerations

Wearing hearing aids around the clock requires careful management and adherence to best practices to ensure optimal performance and comfort. Here are practical tips and considerations for continuous wear:

Hygiene and care

  1. Clean your hearing aids daily with a soft, dry cloth.
  2. Remove them before showering or swimming to prevent moisture damage.
  3. Keep your ears dry and clean.

Regular audiologist consultations

  1. Schedule regular appointments for adjustments and maintenance.
  2. Discuss any changes in comfort or hearing promptly.

Manage battery life for continuous wear

Consider using rechargeable hearing aids for convenience, and always carry spare batteries or a charger when away from home.

Any questions?

Make an appointment and visit us. Our hearing aid acousticians will be happy to answer all your questions about hearing and show you our range of Amplifon hearing aids.

Amplifon Blog

Read our news and find out more on a world of sounds.
Read more

Get support and advice

Request an appointment

Book now

Take an online hearing test

Take the test

Find a clinic near you

Find a clinic