Cycling, snowboarding, horse riding, skateboarding … they’re great for an active lifestyle and, with safety a priority, it’s important to wear a helmet. But it’s just as important to be able to hear – whether it’s listening to your teammates or staying safe while biking on busy roads.
“The truth is, I didn’t always feel safe riding with hearing loss. It can be a real hazard if you can’t hear fellow cyclists on the trails,” says avid cyclist Caroline , who lives in Canada.
“I was worried when I was implanted if I’d need to give up biking. How would a helmet fit over my sound processor without having to cut the foam, which would compromise the integrity of the helmet?”
But there was no need to worry. Caroline’s Cochlear™ Nucleus® Kanso® Sound Processor fits easily under her helmet.
“With my sound processor, my experience on the bike has been incredible and has opened a whole new world.”
Here are some tips for wearing a helmet with your sound processor.
1. Choose the right helmet
Wear a helmet designed for the specific activity you’re pursuing. Try different sizes and brands until you find one that fits and leaves your sound processor secure. When it comes to hard-shell helmets – the kind people wear for cycling – the main thing to remember is that you should not make any physical alteration to the helmet as it could reduce the protection it provides.
2. Secure your device
Find a way to keep your device securely in place when putting the helmet on or taking it off.
A thin sweat band worn around your head works well and is particularly popular with people who wear Nucleus Kanso, Kanso 2 or Osia® 2 sound processors. Another option is a thin skull cap that goes over the crown of the head and covers the sound processor. Both are widely available at sports equipment retailers.
A third option is to use Cochlear Safety Cords which are compatible with Nucleus 8 and all Kanso sound processors.
3. Choose a processor that’s secure
Cochlear sound processors are designed to be comfortable and secure for people who are into sports and being active.
Kanso 2 is a great choice for active people. It’s designed to stay on your head for daily life and light exercise; and it’s already splash proof, so you don’t need to worry about cycling in the rain or getting a bit sweaty! If you have something more strenuous in mind, or want to feel more secure, try a Cochlear Safety Line. There are two types: one that attaches to your clothing and another that attaches to the hair.
Meanwhile, if you’re out on the road, or enjoying intense sports, the Cochlear headband is the best way to keep your Kanso 2 in place.
Do you lead an active lifestyle? Keep your cochlear implant protected while you enjoy your favourite activities. Visit the Cochlear online store for storage kits and accessories.
