Hearing loss is one of the most common ailments in adults over 60 years old, and half of adults over 85 years old experience hearing loss, says the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders. However, hearing loss can also affect children. Hearing aids are available for all age groups, and doctors can even fit infants as young as 2 months old with these devices. All age groups may experience problems keeping their hearing aids in the ear canal, but certain products and methods can solve the fitting problem.
New Ear Molds
One of the reasons why your child's hearing aid won't stay in place may be because the ear original mold needs to be replaced. This is because children's ears are constantly growing and changing, causing the ear mold, which helps keep the hearing aid in place, not to fit properly. For infants, the ear mold may need to be replaced as often as every two to three months. To ensure the best fit, try an ear mold made from soft material as opposed to a plastic ear mold, as molds from softer material will fit better.
Toupee Tape
If your hearing aid is placed behind the ear, toupee tape may help to keep it in place. To apply, simply attach the double-sided tape to the hearing aid on the side that will be facing the head and press gently to adhere to the head. This option may be simple, but it may also cause skin irritation. Change tape strips often, and be sure to check for possible signs of allergic reactions or skin irritation, such as redness, itchiness and rash. This option is possible for both children and adults, and can be executed using wig tape as well.
Retainers
For a nonadhesive option, try retainers. Retainers can be used for adults and children, and are attached around the ear. The rubber retainers are shaped like rings, with the retainer wrapping around the ear. On one part of the ring is another rubber section that attaches to the hearing aid. Certain brands provide a clear option for less conspicuousness.
References
- National Institutes of Health: National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders: Hearing Loss and Older Adults
- Children's Hospital Boston: Hearing Aids
- Boys Town National Research Hospital: My Baby's Hearing: Hearing Aid Choices
- ADCO Hearing Products: Huggie Aids
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Center for Auditory Solutions: Baha Implant
