Old guy frustration

[Texas Ranger]

VA gave me hearing aids, obviously for hearing loss (duh) and with the aides came a whole new morning regime that involves replacing the batteries if needed.  For those with good ears the batteries are smaller than an aspirin tablet with a smaller tape "handle" that needs to be peeled off. With ten thumbs this can be a challenge. 

So, VA sent me a new supply of batteries with a note saying, "new child proof packaging". right, all thumbs has a new challenge.  Now you have to perform surgery to cut the battery out of a hard plastic package. 

Obviously, the VA does not recognize vets can be old farts with 10 thumbs. 

[Magicman]

I hates child proof packaging.  I understand the need to keep button batteries away from swallowing kids, but I still hates them.  At first I said no, but later agreed to get rechargeable with my second hearing aids.  So far, so good.

Add to the child proof packaging, the shoplifter discouraging packaging of most everything else.  Kitchen scissors and a sharp knife are now requirements.  

[barbender]

I'm amazed that liability hasn't come into play with some of the packaging nowadays. There have to be injuries when people are trying to get packages opened. I know I've suffered minor cuts, but had a few instances of almost stabbing myself 

[Magicman]

I was hinting at the same thing.  It almost takes a chainsaw to get through that thick plastic bubble stuff.  

There needs to be one end that you can scissor and slide the packet open.  

[Larry]

I've found the shop bandsaw is excellent for opening those packages. If I didn't have it, I would have to use the sawmill. Would probably need a video from yellowhammer on the correct sawing patterns and band to use.

[21incher]

You may want to contact them and ask to have your aids switched to the rechargeable lithium  battery aids. Never have to touch batteries again and they are sealed so sweat and water do not bother them. Mine will go 24 hours on a charge with Bluetooth connected and I have severe hearing  loss requiring the big power receivers. I have had mine almost  2 years and battery  life has not shortened.  Just put them in the charger at night and ready to go the next  morning.  I think full charge  is 3 hours and half charge is 30 minutes.  Charger has built in batteries and can charge  the aids for 4 days without power.  Definitely the way to go. I bought  mine but a buddy was able to get a similar set from the VA so you should  check. Never  have to mess with batteries again and don't have to worry about jumping  in the pond while wearing them. Plus the charger is a great way to store them at night. 

[Texas Ranger]

Thanks 21, VA has, I think, given a three-year life span on aids, but when the time comes, I will switch.

[Ianab]

I think the worst is buying scissors, in a package that needs heavy duty scissors to open.... 

If I had a good pair of scissors, then I wouldn't need to buy a new set would I?

[customsawyer]

It's not hard to get frustrated with the VA.

[YellowHammer]

I had some Duracell 2032 the other day that has a double packaging and bad taste coating to prevent kids from ingesting them.  They were difficult to open, I used three knives, some scissors and a fillet knife.  It wasn't an optimal process.  

[doc henderson]

If you buy in bulk like 6 or 12 from the amazon, they are in a plastic pouch and not hard to iopen and cheaper.  I am a Duracell guy.

Amazon.com: Duracell CR2032 3V Lithium Battery, Child Safety Features, 12 Count Pack, Lithium Coin Battery for Key Fob, Car Remote, Glucose Monitor, CR Lithium 3 Volt Cell (2032 3V) : Health & Household

[Raider Bill]

It's not hard to get frustrated with the VA.

The V.A. gives you a second chance to give your life for your country.

[Texas Ranger]

If you buy in bulk like 6 or 12 from the amazon, they are in a plastic pouch and not hard to iopen and cheaper.  I am a Duracell guy.

Amazon.com: Duracell CR2032 3V Lithium Battery, Child Safety Features, 12 Count Pack, Lithium Coin Battery for Key Fob, Car Remote, Glucose Monitor, CR Lithium 3 Volt Cell (2032 3V) : Health & Household

Thanks Doc, but I am a big fan of free batteries from the VA.  Going for the chargeable aids when the time allows it.